If you are not a citizen of the country in which you would like to pursue higher education, you may be considered an international student. Many of the steps you’ll take to apply to college are the same ones that domestic students take. You should apply to several schools to increase your chances of getting accepted. Eight to nine is a good number, but some students apply to even more.
However, international college students do have to take some additional steps when applying for admission:
Research and follow the admission process for international students at each institution where you plan to apply. There may be specific requirements that international applicants need to meet e.g. Transcript evaluations or equivalencies.
If you're a citizen of a country where the official language is something other than English, you may need to demonstrate your English language proficiency. The TOEFL (or its alternative, the IELTS) is one option. You may also be able to submit your PHS official transcripts. Options will vary based on institution.
If financial aid is important to you, then you’ll have to figure out whether you can obtain aid directly from colleges. For example, U.S. federal financial aid is only available to U.S. citizens. You might also apply for outside scholarships.
Finally, you’ll need to sort out the legal requirements of living and studying as an international student by applying for a student visa. You will apply for your student visa only after gaining admission to a college and accepting a place in the next class. Visa requirements will vary based on country.
*You will likely be required to obtain a specific student visa to enter, re-enter, or remain in the country for the duration of your studies.
Admission Letter or Confirmation of Enrollment verifying you have been accepted by an institution within the country where you are applying for a visa.
Valid Passport
Proof of sufficient financial funds (amount varies)
Proof of English Proficiency (if English is the official language)
Proof of Health Insurance Coverage
Health and Character requirements
NOTE: Requirements will vary based on country. Please visit the respective official immigration website for the most up-to-date information on requirements and visa application process.
Use the following resources to research options and requirements based on the specified country. This is not an exhaustive list, but rather, focuses on the most popular countries for international student enrollment.
The high cost of tuition has many prospective students looking at other countries that offer free college or low-cost programs, including Norway, Finland, Sweden, Germany, and Austria.
Things to keep in mind:
Reduced or free college tuition in these countries can have strings attached; for example, you may need to be a doctoral student or already have one year of college under your belt before transferring.
Although these countries offer virtually free tuition, students need to be aware that a higher cost of living in a foreign country can still put them over budget.
NORWAY: MINIMUM ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS