International Student (F-1) Applicants

First-time U.S. college students must send an official copy of their high school transcript to the PDSO. Applicants who have attended a college/university in the U.S. must also send their official transcript directly to the college.

International applicants must demonstrate proof of English language competency. Students may submit scores from the Testing of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination, the International English Language Testing (IELTS) exam, or the Duolingo English Test. These scores must be sent directly from the testing service to the International Student Programs Coordinator. The minimum acceptable scores are: TOEFLiBT, 66; IELTS, 6.0; and Duolingo, 90.

This test is not required of students from countries where English is a primary language. These applicants must contact the international student advisor to confirm eligibility. Transfer students who have completed College English Composition at a U.S. school are also exempt from having to provide a language exam score, but must provide proof of successful completion in the form of a “C” grade or higher.

Applicants must submit a recent (within last 30 days) financial statement (download printable form) regarding the resources provided for the student while the student is in the U.S. This form must be signed, dated, and stamped with the financial institution’s seal and sent directly to the International Student Programs Coordinator at SFCC from the financial institution. Because there are very limited institutional funds available for international students, each applicant must be able to meet all financial obligations while attending SFCC (there is no housing available on campus).

You are required to present proof of available funds in the amount of at least $27,546 U.S. dollars (students living with local friends or family, please contact PDSO concerning financial ability). This is an estimated amount based on expected tuition and living expenses for the academic year. Listed costs will increase with each dependent added to your I-20. Applicants who are sponsored by a government agency or private company must submit verifying documentation. If funds are being provided from a sponsor, please provide a letter of sponsorship.

Applicants must upload a statement of approximately 500 words explaining their intended program of study, their educational goals, and how their chosen program will help them achieve those goals.

If you are transferring from a U.S. university and you wish to have credits transferred, an official transcript must be sent directly from the university to SFCC. A letter or SFCC Transfer Form from your designated student advisor (PDSO/DSO) indicating permission to transfer, and a copy of your I-20 issued from the attending university, are also needed. (download printable form)

All international students and exchange visitors entering the U.S. must pay a fee mandated by Congress in September 2004 with a Form I-20. All applicants must pay the SEVIS fee before going to the U.S. embassy or consulate for their visa interview. You can complete the Form I-901 and pay this fee at www.FMJfee.com with a credit card or through the mail.

All international students attending SFCC are required to have health insurance. Hospital care and all medical care in general are expensive; without insurance you will be held responsible for all costs. Proof of insurance must be provided at the time of your arrival.