International First Year Students
International Graduate Students
International Transfer Students
International Admisssions Requirements
Students who otherwise meet the academic requirements of their chosen degree program, but who are unable to submit English proficiency documentation or a GMAT/GRE score at time of application may be considered for conditional admission.
First Year International Students
Academic Preparation
In general, we recommend that students complete college preparatory coursework that includes:
- Eight semesters of English or the language of instruction
- Six to eight semesters of mathematics
- Six to eight semesters of natural sciences (biology, chemistry, physics)
- Six semesters of social science (economics, government, history, psychology, or sociology)
- Eight semesters of foreign language, fine arts, computer science, or technical skills
- Two semesters of health, physical education, or safety
Secondary School Graduation Requirements
- Graduation from a U.S. or Canadian secondary school or meet the country-specific secondary preparation requirements listed here.
- The equivalent of a "B" average or higher in secondary school or a score of at least 620 on the General Educational Development (GED) test.
English Language Minimum Requirements
- Minimum TOEFL score of 71 on the internet-based examination. Please click here for other ways to meet the English language proficiency, in lieu of submitting a TOEFL score.
- Immigrant students currently residing in the South Bend area may take the IUSB Interim Placement Examination. Immigrant students includes students whose first language is not English: U.S. Citizen, Refugee, Asylee, Permanent Resident
- Please click here for other ways to demonstrate English proficiency
All first-time international undergraduate students and transfer students must take placement exams in English and Mathematics upon arrival, unless otherwise exempt. Additional details about the placement tests and exemptions can be found on the English Placement Test page. If you are required to take English course(s) as a result of the placement exam, you MUST begin them during your first semester of study and complete any remaining course(s) during subsequent semesters. No interruption in the sequence of prescribed ESL courses will be permitted; students are automatically enrolled in the prescribed ESL courses every fall and spring semester until they are done with the sequence. Students may opt, however, to take a summer English course toward completing the sequence.
Special Requirements for Music Applicants
- Complete Music Audition Application
- Audition is required. Overseas applicants may submit a CD or DVD with their application information. (click here for information about what needs to be included in the audition CD or DVD).
Graduate Admissions Requirements
Post-Secondary School Graduation Requirements for All Programs:
Graduation from a U.S. or Canadian post-secondary school or meet the country-specific post-secondary preparation requirements.
Specific Requirements Based on Program:
- Applied Math and Computer Science
- Business Administration, Accounting or Management Information
- Education
- English
- Liberal Studies
- Public Affairs
- Music
Admissions Requirements for Transfer Students
You are a Transfer Student if:
- You have attended a university or postsecondary institution after graduating from high school (secondary school)
- You have not received a bachelor's degree (first degree),or
- You wish to pursue a second bachelor's degree in a different discipline
- IU South Bend Transfer Credit Policies and Procedures
If you will transfer to IU South Bend with less than 12 transferrable credits, you must meet the Academic Preparation and Secondary School Graduation requirements listed here, as well as the English Proficiency Language Documentation requirement. You should submit your secondary school transcripts along with your post-secondary transcripts.
If you will transfer to IU South Bend with 12 transferrable credits or more, you must have at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 grading scale. You are exempt from the English Proficiency Language Documentation requirement only after completing 24 credits at a U.S. educational institution.
International Visiting Students
Academic Preparation
For international students who have just completed high school, please see the first year list above.
For international students visiting from other colleges, the student must provide a letter from academic advisor attesting that the student is in good academic standing at his or her current institution.
International Non-Degree Students
Academic Preparation
International non-degree students at the undergraduate level must meet the first year qualifications above.
International non-degree students at the graduate level must meet the admission requirements for the graduate program in which they are attending classes.