International students face unique needs and additional barriers when applying to undergraduate and graduate study programs abroad. Alongside meeting general admission requirements for both undergraduate and graduate study programs, certain countries require that prospective applicants fulfill specific educational or English language entry standards that must be fulfilled. Depending on your country of origin and educational system, you may be required to take an English language test (TOEFL or IELTS), Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), or Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
Get copies of all official transcripts and records from both high school and university education, including an official secondary school diploma or equivalent. If the records are written in another language than English, provide an official translation. If transferring from community college, make sure that at least 12 semester credits have been completed with at least a 3.0 GPA on them.
Make sure you meet the University’s requirement to demonstrate English language proficiency. If you are non-native English speaker, submit an official TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo score report along with your application for UW admissions. In addition, an essay must also be included with your application to determine whether an ESL course is necessary.
Show that you have sufficient financial means to cover tuition and living costs. For instance, the College of Education requires all international students on non-immigrant visas have enough funds for an entire year of study.
Keep in regular touch with your international student advisor or designated school official in order to stay abreast of changes in school and government visa policies, as well as expedite passport renewals or student visa renewals quickly. This will also make sure that passport renewals or student visa renewals go smoothly.