International Student Admission Frequently Asked Questions

How do we define an international student?

Any student who is not a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident in the U.S is considered an international student. International students usually need an F1 or J1 visa to study in the U.S. 

Can the application fee be deferred for international students?

Only in special cases. Students must contact the Office of Admissions for approval.

Can I study part time?

No. U.S. immigration law requires that all international students on F1 student visas maintain full-time enrollment. To be considered full time, undergraduate students must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 quarter credits. Graduate students must be enrolled in a minimum of 9 quarter credits to be considered full time.

Are international students required to take the SAT Reasoning Test or ACT?

No, but it is recommended (if available). Please note that the School of Architecture requires the SAT Reasoning Test of ALL applicants, including international students.

Is the TOEFL required for those students who have earned U.S. bachelor's or higher degrees?

The University does not require it, but some graduate departments require the TOEFL from ALL non native speakers of English.

How long is a TOEFL/IELTS score valid?

Two years.

Does UO award credit for the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and the Advanced Placement (AP) exams?

Yes. More about advanced credit for IB and AP exams.

How can I find information about programs offered at the UO?

More information about academic programs and majors.

Can international students apply for a second undergraduate degree?

Yes. Students who have an undergraduate degree can apply as postbaccalaureate non graduate students.

I have sent my application to the UO. What happens next?

Once we receive your application, we will send you a letter to confirm the receipt of your application. We will also send you an Identification Number and a PIN that you can use to check the status of your application online. If admitted, a Notice of Admission and a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 Form) will be mailed to you.

Are international students required to pay an Advance Tuition Deposit (ATD)?

No. International students are not required to pay an Advance Tuition Deposit. You must notify the Office of Admission of your decision to attend by returning the confirmation card enclosed in the admission package.

Can international students apply for financial aid and scholarships?

International students cannot apply for federal financial aid. Financial assistance is available through the Office of International Affairs. Once at the UO, international students can apply for general university scholarships through the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Can international students work on campus?

Yes. On-campus employment is the only legal employment for international students.

What should I do to get a student visa?

Most international students attending the UO hold student (F1) visas. After you are admitted to the UO you will receive a Notification of Admission and a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 Form). In order to obtain a student visa, present the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 Form) to a United States embassy or consulate. http://usembassy.state.gov/ Information about how to obtain a student visa is available on the following website http://educationusa.state.gov/predeparture/visas.htm

If you are attending a college or university in the United States, you must obtain a new Form I-20  from the University of Oregon. Be sure to complete the International Student Transfer Form from the Office of International Affairs. Your SEVIS record must be released from your former school to the University of Oregon. If you have specific questions about student visas, you can contact the SEVIS coordinator at the Office of International Affairs.

Do I need to submit an immunization record?

Learn about required shots you must have before you come to the UO: http://healthcenter.uoregon.edu/immunization/

Do I need health insurance?

All international students are required to have health insurance. Read about UO health insurance policy at http://healthcenter.uoregon.edu/insurance/International_main_page.html

Can I defer my offer of admission?

The UO admits students for a specific term. You must submit a new application with updated transcripts to reapply for a different term. Your $50 application fee is good for one academic year (fall through summer terms). Applications and supporting documents are kept for one calendar year.

Do I have to attend the International Student Orientation?

All newly admitted international students are required to attend the International Student Orientation at the beginning of each academic term. The International Student Orientation helps students with their transition to the UO.

How can I find out more about Eugene?

http://www.el.com/to/eugene/
http://www.cvalco.org/

What services does the U.S. government offer to international students?

Check with the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs for services for international students.