Lana Oconnell
Determining whether or not you are an international student can be a complex process, especially when it comes to admissions and financial aid. In the United States, each college or university may have different criteria for classifying students as domestic or international, which can impact your application process and financial aid opportunities. Understanding your residency status and the specific policies of your desired educational institution is crucial for navigating the admissions process effectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Admission | Considered on a case-by-case basis by schools. |
| Financial Aid | Depends on the aid policies of specific schools. |
| Student Loans | Typically requires a US citizen cosigner. |
| Citizenship | Non-US citizens are considered international students by Dartmouth. |
| Residency | Subject to any cap the university has on internationals. |
| Visa | Requires a nonimmigrant student visa (F-1 or M-1). |
| Form I-20 | Required for nonimmigrant students. |
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What You'll Learn
What is the criteria for being an international student?
The criteria for being an international student vary depending on the country in which one is studying. However, the general consensus is that an international student is someone who has left their country of origin to study in another country. In the United States, international students are considered nonimmigrants as their sole purpose for being in the country is to complete a program of study. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security categorizes students as F-1 nonimmigrants or M-1 nonimmigrants. F-1 students are those pursuing a full course of academic or professional study, including a language-training program, at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school. M-1 students, on the other hand, are those enrolled in a full course of study at an SEVP-certified vocational or other recognized non-academic institution. To be eligible for these visas, students must be enrolled in an "academic" educational program, a language-training program, or a vocational program, and their school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program.
In Japan, an international student is defined as a "student from a foreign economy who is receiving an education at any Japanese university, graduate school, junior college, college of technology, professional training college, or university preparatory course and who resides in Japan with a 'college student' visa status."
It is important to note that the terms "international student" and "foreign student" are not always used consistently across countries, which can lead to discrepancies in enrollment statistics and make comparisons between countries difficult. The OECD and UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) have attempted to standardize the definitions, with the OECD distinguishing between "international students" and "foreign students" in its Education at a Glance (2006) report. According to this report, an "international student" crosses borders for the specific purpose of studying, while a "foreign student" is a non-citizen enrolled at an institution outside their home country but has not necessarily crossed a border to study.
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How do universities treat international students?
The treatment of international students by universities is a multifaceted issue that has drawn attention in recent years, especially in the context of American higher education. There are various ways in which universities treat international students, and perspectives vary on whether this treatment is beneficial or detrimental.
One perspective is that international students contribute significantly to the success of universities. Firstly, they bring financial benefits. The enrollment of international students has become a major source of revenue for universities, particularly in the United States, where the number of foreign students has grown considerably over the last four decades. International students often pay higher tuition fees, making them an important economic factor for universities. This financial contribution becomes even more significant considering the slow growth of the college-aged population in certain regions of the United States.
Secondly, international students contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of university campuses. Academic and social interaction with students from different countries can provide valuable educational and career benefits for domestic students. International students bring diverse perspectives, enrich classroom discussions, and help foster a more informed and open-minded learning environment. This diversity can enhance the quality of the student body and facilitate better research and intellectual exchange. Additionally, international students can create cultural ties between their home countries and their host country, promoting international understanding and soft power.
However, there is also a contrasting perspective on how universities treat international students, particularly concerning elite American universities. The Trump administration's attempts to restrict foreign student enrollment at Harvard University sparked a debate about the internationalization of American higher education. Critics argue that universities view international students as a source of higher tuition payments, benefiting from their enrollment to pad their multibillion-dollar endowments. There is a concern that the focus on international students as a revenue stream could lead to the exploitation of these students, as seen in the characterization of the issue as an “elite scam” by the Trump administration.
Additionally, the enrollment of international students at elite universities may impact social mobility and national unity within the host country. While international students can boost the economy through their high-level jobs and above-average salaries, their presence may also affect opportunities for domestic students, especially if universities prioritize international enrollment to maintain revenue streams. Universities' treatment of international students, therefore, has both positive and negative implications, and the debate continues on how to balance these factors to ensure a fair and beneficial educational system.
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What financial aid is available for international students?
International students often require substantial financial aid to fund their studies, especially in countries like the United States, where the cost of attendance rises annually. While funding for international students is limited, there are still options available, including grants, scholarships, and private loans.
Firstly, international students can explore scholarship opportunities. Scholarships are typically merit-based or need-based. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on special skills, talents, or abilities, such as high TOEFL scores, an impressive academic record, or artistic, musical, or athletic ability. Need-based scholarships, on the other hand, are granted to students who can demonstrate a predetermined level of financial need. Academic departments within universities may have funds allocated for international students with exceptional need and/or talent. Additionally, there are free scholarship databases, as well as private, corporate, nonprofit, and government scholarship funds that cater specifically to international students. International scholarships can provide valuable funding for education programs overseas and offer unique cultural experiences and networking opportunities.
Secondly, grants may be available as a form of financial aid for international students. Grants are typically awarded based on financial need and are intended to help students cover their expenses.
Lastly, private loans are an option for international students seeking financial assistance. However, financial aid experts advise caution when considering loans, as they can result in significant debt. International students interested in loans should research and compare the rates and terms offered by various lenders. Additionally, most loans require a cosigner, which is someone who guarantees repayment to the lending institution if the borrower becomes unable to pay back the loan.
It is important to note that financial aid for international students can vary significantly between institutions, with private institutions sometimes offering discounts or reduced tuition fees, while public institutions rarely have this option. Additionally, undergraduate international students may find even less financial aid available to them, as most institutional aid is reserved for graduate study. International students should consult with their chosen university to understand the specific financial aid options available to them and to take advantage of any supplements, waivers, or grants the institution may offer.
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What visas do international students need?
International students intending to study in the United States must obtain a student visa. The type of visa required depends on the course of study and the type of school the student plans to attend. The two most common types of student visas are the F and M visas, which are non-immigrant visas.
The F-1 visa is for full-time international students pursuing academic studies at an accredited college, university, school, seminary, conservatory, or other academic institutions, including language training programs. To qualify for an F-1 visa, students must be enrolled in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate. The F-1 visa is the most popular type of student visa and allows students to stay in the US for the duration of their program. Following graduation, F-1 students may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which permits them to work for up to 12 months in a field related to their study. STEM graduates can request two additional years of work in a related field.
The M-1 visa, on the other hand, is for full-time international students pursuing vocational studies or other non-academic programs, excluding language training. M-1 students are subject to different employment restrictions compared to F-1 students.
Both F-1 and M-1 visa holders may be eligible to work on-campus or in a job related to their area of study, provided it is authorized by the Designated School Official and USCIS. The J-1 visa is another type of visa for foreign nationals participating in work-and-study-based exchange programs, such as visiting scholars, camp counselors, au pairs, or research assistants.
To obtain a student visa, international students must undergo an interview with a consular officer, who will determine their eligibility. The visa application process may include ink-free, digital fingerprint scans and typically requires various documents, including a passport, visa application form (DS-160), and the Form I-20 issued by the student's institution. The Form I-20 is crucial for maintaining student status in the US and must be signed by both the student and the Designated School Official. Students should expect to incur visa application fees and visa issuance fees, which vary based on nationality. It is important to note that a visa does not guarantee entry into the United States, and students must actively maintain their visa status by complying with university regulations and visa requirements.
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What documents do international students need?
International students need a variety of documents to study in a foreign country. The specific requirements vary depending on the country of study and the student's nationality. Here is a list of common documents that international students typically need:
Passport
A passport is a crucial document for international travel and visa applications. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the host country. Each family member travelling with you who needs a visa must submit their separate application.
Visa
Obtaining a student visa is essential for international students planning to study abroad. The visa application process typically involves an interview with a consular officer, who will determine your eligibility for a student visa. You may also need to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and photos, during the application process. After your visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on your nationality.
Birth Certificate or Equivalent
A birth certificate or equivalent government-issued document is often required to verify your identity and parental information. This document should include the names of your parents or legal guardians.
Parental Consent
If you are under 18, written consent from both parents or legal guardians is typically required for your studies abroad. If one parent has sole responsibility, their consent will be necessary.
Academic Records
International students usually need to provide academic records, such as transcripts and diplomas, from their previous education. These documents are essential for assessing your educational background and eligibility for the desired course or program.
Financial Proof
You may also need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support your studies and living expenses. This could include bank statements or other documents indicating your ability to cover tuition and living costs.
It is important to note that specific document requirements may vary depending on the country of study and your individual circumstances. Always refer to official government sources and embassy websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the required documents for international students.
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Frequently asked questions
If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you are considered an international student. However, there are exceptions for permanent U.S. residents, eligible non-citizens, and undocumented students.
A Form I-20, or "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," is required for F and M students studying in the United States. It is issued by a designated school official (DSO) and is needed to obtain a student visa and enter the country.
F-1 students are typically academic or language students, while M-1 students are vocational students.
International students may face different financial aid policies compared to domestic students. Need-based financial aid, such as TPS, may be available to international students with specific documentation, such as Form I-94.
Universities may have varying policies regarding the admission of international students. Some universities may consider them alongside DACA applicants, while others may have caps on the number of international students they admit. It is important to research the policies of specific universities.
