- International Students
Information for International Applicants to Suffolk University
The University is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students. Prospective students who do not hold US citizenship must submit the following materials in addition to the general requirements for admission:
International Baccalaureate (IB) Policy
Students who have completed the full IB diploma with a total of 28 or more points are eligible for sophomore standing. Students who have received fewer than 28 points may receive 6 credits for each higher level examination passed with a score of 4, 5, 6, or 7. Students who are awarded IB credit may also be eligible for merit scholarships.
A Level Policy
Suffolk awards credit for scores of C and higher for candidates with A Level results. Five strong O-Level passes are required for admission.
TOEFL or ELPT scores
Applicants whose primary language is not English must be able to demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing English. To do so, applicants are expected to submit official TOEFL or ELPT scores with their application materials. A minimum score of 525/197 computer on the TOEFL Exam or 956 on the ELPT is required for admission to a degree program. Suffolk University also accepts the IELTS, CPE, CAE, and FCE. Applicants whose scores are below the recommended norms may be considered for the English Language for Internationals Program (ELI), an intensive program of language instruction to prepare students for entry into a degree program.
Academic Records
International students are required to submit an official copy of all records of academic coursework, accompanied by an official English translation. This includes
- secondary school records with courses taken and grades received
- (for transfer applicants) records from each college or university attended showing the number of lecture and/or laboratory hours taken and grades received
- official documents verifying the awarding of all secondary diplomas and/or academic certificates with the title and date awarded.
In certain instances, applicants may be required to have their credentials evaluated by a professional evaluation service.
Professional Credential Evaluation for most international institutions. This should be done by an accredited professional credential evaluation agency.
Suggested agencies include:
- Center for Educational Documentation (http://www.cedevaluations.com/)
- Josef Silny & Associates
(http://www.jsilny.com/) - University of Miami Academic Credential Evaluators
(http://www.umevals.org/) - World Education Services
(http://www.wes.org/)
Certification of Finances
International applicants must submit the Confidential Declaration and Certification of Finances form to show evidence of their ability to pay educational and living expenses while studying in the US. Please request this form from the Office of Undergraduate Admission, complete it and submit it with the application for admission. The information provided must demonstrate ability to pay the annual cost of approximately $39,400 and be certified by a bank seal.
Confidential Declaration of Finances
Financial Assistance
International students are ineligible for all forms of federal and state financial aid, but they may apply for all University-funded employment programs.
