How to Apply - International Students

How to Apply - International Students

All international applicants will need to submit additional documentation along with their application. Please review the checklist of necessary paperwork below.

⊡ Official Academic Records

You may upload copies of your official transcripts and diploma certificates via your IStart account. Within the first four weeks of enrollment, you must then submit official transcripts, including work already completed and work currently in progress.

Click here to view detailed requirements.

If the original documents are not in English, a verified translation must be sent with your official transcripts in your native language.
Click here to view more information about English translations.

MAILING ADDRESS:
Office of International Student Services
1700 Mishawaka Ave.
PO Box 7111
South Bend, IN 46634-7111

⊡ English Language Proficiency Documentation

If English is not your native language, you must demonstrate proficiency in English before you can be admitted to IU South Bend. While TOEFL is the preferred method of documentation, there are many ways to meet this requirement.

Language requirements for undergraduates

Students who have not yet met this requirement may apply for "Conditional Admission." If applying for Conditional Admission, please indicate that you would like to apply for "Conditional Admission." Applicants, who meet the academic requirements, will be issued a conditional acceptance letter. Students will not be fully admitted until the English language proficiency requirement is met.

⊡ Immigration Documentation

Non-U.S. residents: Submit a photocopy of your passport page showing your name and date of birth. If you are currently in the U.S., submit a photocopy of your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record and visa stamp.

Review restrictions on study for certain visa holders (B-1/B-2, F-1 OPT, F-2, J-1).

⊡ Financial Documentation

Financial documentation is not required to make an admissions decision.

If you are requesting an I-20 in order to obtain a student visa, you must submit documentation of financial support proving that sufficient funds are available to cover all study and living expenses for the first year of study. Documentation must be less than 12 months old at the start of your study program and may be submitted in the following formats:

  • An original or certified true bank statement or scholarship letter. See the following link for other acceptable financial documents.
  • Privately sponsored students must submit an affidavit of support from the individual named on the financial documents.
  • Government-sponsored students must submit an official letter from the government specifying the terms of the scholarship and addressed to IU South Bend.

⊡ Statement of Purpose

(Optional for undergraduate applicants)
This statement is not required but it is is considered in awarding the first-year scholarships. There are no requirements for what you must discuss in your statement; however, the questions below may help you develop content.

  • View questions
    • What undergraduate degree program at IU South Bend do you wish pursue (certificate, associate or bachelor)?
    • What academic subject or major to you wish to study in this program?
    • What are your objectives for pursuing this degree and major?
    • As of today, what academic achievement(s) are you most proud of?
    • Have you done any service, volunteer or extracurricular activities?
    • For students who have completed their secondary education, have you been away from school for more than three months?
    • If so, how did you spend the time?
    • Looking at your educational record, have you failed any courses or earned more than one or two poor grades?
    • How will you avoid the same mistakes you made that caused your poor performance?
    • Is there anything else in your background that you want to bring to the admission committee's attention as it reviews your application?

Additional Documentation for Graduate Applicants

Graduate applicants are required to submit a statement of purpose, up to three letters of recommendation and graduate test scores. Click the button below if you are a graduate application.

Additional requirements for graduate applicants