
International students can enroll as non-degree students at some universities in the US. Non-degree programs allow students to take courses without formally enrolling in a degree program. This option is suitable for international students who want to take a few classes for personal enrichment, transfer credits to another university, or try out a subject before applying to a degree program. While non-degree students may not receive financial aid or scholarships, they will receive a transcript of their completed classes. International students interested in enrolling as non-degree students must meet English language proficiency requirements and submit the necessary immigration documents, such as a passport, visa, and proof of non-immigrant status.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| International students on a non-student visa | May be eligible to take non-degree classes at some universities |
| International students on a student visa | May be eligible to take non-degree classes at some universities |
| Universities offering non-degree programs for international students | University at Buffalo, Pepperdine University, University of Washington, NYU |
| Requirements for international students | English language proficiency, valid passport, visa, I-20 or immigration document granting nonimmigrant status, health insurance, undergraduate transcript, proof of graduation |
| Types of non-degree programs | Traditional (for academic credit), audit (for personal enrichment) |
| Enrollment process | Online application, submission of required documents, application fee |
| Financial aid | Non-degree students are not eligible for financial aid, must pay full tuition or per-class fee |
| Enrollment period | One term, students must reapply for each additional term |
| Course registration | Non-degree students may not advance register, register on the first day of classes |
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What You'll Learn
- International students on a visitor visa are not eligible for non-degree enrollment
- International students on an F1 visa must obtain permission from their international student advisor
- International students on a non-student visa that permits study may be eligible for non-degree classes
- International non-degree students on an F1 or J1 visa must maintain health insurance
- International students can work with US organizations that sponsor work exchange experiences

International students on a visitor visa are not eligible for non-degree enrollment
International students on a visitor visa are not eligible for non-degree enrolment at some institutions, such as Pepperdine University. This is because the university does not issue a Form I-20 to international non-degree program students.
However, some universities, such as the University at Buffalo, do allow international students on non-student visas that permit study to enrol in non-degree classes. For example, international students on an F1 visa are required to obtain permission from their international student advisor at their home institution before starting non-degree study at NYU.
Additionally, international students may be able to enrol in non-degree programs through a work exchange experience program, such as the J-1 visa, which allows for internships or other employment experiences in the US.
It is important to note that the eligibility requirements for non-degree enrolment can vary between universities and countries. Therefore, it is recommended to check with the specific university or institution for their eligibility requirements and admission processes.
Furthermore, there may be additional requirements for international students, such as demonstrating English language proficiency and providing transcripts from previous education.
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International students on an F1 visa must obtain permission from their international student advisor
International students on an F1 visa must maintain their F1 status at their primary school while taking non-degree classes at another institution. For example, international students at the University of Washington (UW) who wish to take non-degree classes must already have a current, valid I-20 from Continuum College/UW Professional & Continuing Education or another school and plan to take classes at UW while maintaining their F1 status at their primary institution.
Similarly, Pepperdine University does not issue I-20s for international students participating in non-degree programs. International students at Pepperdine must provide a letter from their designated school official authorizing enrollment for a specified period and number of credits.
The University at Buffalo accepts international students on a non-student visa that permits study. Applicants must submit a copy of their current valid visa with their application and demonstrate English language proficiency.
It is important to note that international non-degree students on an F1 visa are required to maintain health insurance, which can cost approximately $4,700 per year. Additionally, non-degree students are not eligible for financial aid and must pay the full cost of tuition.
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International students on a non-student visa that permits study may be eligible for non-degree classes
Similarly, the University of Washington allows international students to take courses through Non-Degree Enrollment, provided they already have a current, valid I-20 from Continuum College/UW Professional & Continuing Education or another school and plan to take classes at the UW while maintaining their F-1 status at another school.
On the other hand, Pepperdine University does not issue I-20s for international students participating in the non-degree program. However, international students on an F1 or J1 visa are required to maintain health insurance, which costs approximately $4,700 per year.
Furthermore, international students on an F1 visa seeking non-degree admission at NYU must obtain permission from their international student advisor at their home institution before starting their studies.
It is important to note that non-degree students are generally not eligible for any form of university financial aid and must pay tuition and fees. Additionally, some universities require international non-degree applicants to submit immigration documents, including a copy of their passport, visa, and a current I-20 or immigration document granting non-immigrant status.
Overall, while it is possible for international students on a non-student visa that permits study to enroll in non-degree classes at some US universities, the specific requirements and eligibility criteria may vary across institutions. It is always advisable to check with the admissions office or the relevant department at the university for detailed information on their non-degree programs and eligibility requirements for international students.
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International non-degree students on an F1 or J1 visa must maintain health insurance
International students can enrol in non-degree programs, but their eligibility depends on their visa status. For example, an international student in visitor visa status (B1/B2, Waiver/ESTA) is not eligible for non-degree enrolment at Pepperdine University. However, the University at Buffalo accepts international students on non-student visas that permit study, such as the F1 visa.
F1 visa holders and their dependents should follow the insurance guidelines set by their school. Some institutions will require all international students to buy school-sponsored insurance coverage, while others will allow students to purchase a plan of their choosing. It is important to remember that purchasing appropriate insurance is the only way to protect against unforeseen medical bills.
International students on an F1 visa do not have any government-related health insurance requirements to meet when studying in the USA. However, J1 visa holders have insurance requirements mandated by the US consulate. Therefore, it is prudent for F1 and J1 visa holders to ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage.
There are various health insurance plans available for international students on F1 or J1 visas, such as the Student Secure plan, which offers coverage for mental health, maternity, pre-existing conditions, and medical evacuation. The Student Health Advantage Standard plan provides comprehensive health coverage with a medical maximum of $500,000 and a $250 deductible. The Geoblue Navigator student insurance plan offers worldwide coverage with an unlimited medical maximum and a $0 deductible.
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International students can work with US organizations that sponsor work exchange experiences
International students can pursue non-degree programs in the US, but their eligibility depends on their visa status. For instance, international students on a visitor visa (B1/B2, Waiver/ESTA) are not eligible for non-degree enrollment at Pepperdine University. On the other hand, international students already in the US on a non-student visa that permits study may be eligible for non-degree classes at the University at Buffalo.
Now, let's focus on the topic of work exchange experiences for international students in the US:
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can enroll as non-degree students at many universities in the USA.
The requirements vary across universities. Some common requirements include:
- A valid visa that permits study
- English language proficiency
- Submission of transcripts, school-leaving examinations, and/or certificates
- Instructor and departmental approval
- Maintaining F-1 status at another school
No, universities do not issue I-20s for international students participating in non-degree programs. International students must already have a valid I-20 from another school and plan to maintain their F-1 status while taking courses at the university.
International non-degree students typically apply for enrollment through an online application form and submit any required supplemental materials, such as immigration documents and letters of authorization. They may also need to pay an application fee.
International non-degree students may be restricted to enrolling in courses on a space-available basis after matriculated students have registered. They should check with the specific university for any restrictions or requirements.



























