Cuny's International Student Policy: Who Can Apply?

does cuny accept international students

The City University of New York (CUNY) is home to over 6,000 international students from more than 100 countries. CUNY offers a range of services and programs to support international students, including the International Student & Scholar Services Office, which provides resources and recommendations to help finance a graduate international education in the United States. International students at CUNY must maintain their immigration status and are encouraged to purchase international student health insurance. To apply, international students must submit a CUNY Application, along with official certificates, transcripts, and translations if necessary. Applicants whose native language is not English may be required to take the TOEFL or IELTS.

Characteristics Values
Definition of international students Those who have completed any part of their secondary or post-secondary education outside the United States and/or require a student (F-1) visa.
Application requirements Submission of an appropriate freshman or transfer application, official certificates, detailed transcripts, and translations (if necessary).
English language requirements International students whose native language is not English and who hold a temporary visa are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Visa requirements International students must obtain a student (F-1) visa or a J-1 visa.
Immigration status International students are responsible for maintaining their immigration status while studying at CUNY.
Health insurance Although not mandated, it is recommended that international students purchase international student health insurance to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses and ensure access to a wide range of healthcare providers.
Financial resources There are funding opportunities available for international students, and the International Student & Scholar Services Office provides recommendations to assist in financing their education.
Housing International students can stay in CUNY residence halls or find their own accommodation.

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International students must submit an application, certificates, transcripts, and translations

International students are welcome at The City University of New York (CUNY). CUNY is home to approximately 6,000+ international students in F and J immigration status, representing more than 100 countries.

Firstly, international students must submit an application. This can be done online. Students must also submit official certificates, detailed transcripts, and translations (if necessary). If the institution does not issue records in English, original language records must be submitted with translations. All translations must be literal and complete versions of the original records, and all supporting material must be in English.

International students must also demonstrate English language proficiency. If English is not your first language, you will need to take an English language test. CUNY accepts the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Students who do not meet the minimum TOEFL requirement can enrol in CUNY's intensive English program to improve their English skills and receive an F-1 visa.

International students must also apply for a visa. Students will need to obtain a student (F-1) visa or a J-1 visa. Students must maintain continuous, full-time enrollment and comply with U.S. immigration laws.

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English proficiency tests are required for non-native speakers

The City University of New York (CUNY) accepts international students. However, applicants whose native language is not English and who hold a temporary visa are required to take an English proficiency test. These students must submit an appropriate freshman or transfer application, along with official certificates, detailed transcripts, and translations (if necessary).

English Proficiency Tests

CUNY requires all students to demonstrate proficiency in English (reading and writing) to enroll in credit-bearing courses. Students who do not meet the required scores on SAT, ACT, or New York State Regents exams will be assessed by CUNY's proficiency index for course placement in English.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

All CUNY colleges accept TOEFL scores, which are valid for two years. Students who achieve a composite score of 105 or higher will meet CUNY's English proficiency requirements and will be eligible to enroll in the required college-level English composition course.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Information about the IELTS test can be found on the IELTS website.

Accuplacer ESL Tests

The Accuplacer ESL Tests are designed for English language learners, and the test results will be used to determine proficiency and placement to help support students in their courses.

Other Ways to Establish Proficiency

Students can also establish English proficiency by demonstrating any of the following:

  • SAT I Verbal score of 480 or higher
  • SAT Critical Reading score of 480 or higher
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) section score of 480 or higher
  • A 3-credit college-level English course with a grade of 'C' or better from an accredited college or university where English is the primary language of instruction

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International students must maintain their immigration status

International students are welcome at The City University of New York (CUNY), which is home to approximately 6,000+ international students in F and J immigration status, representing more than 100 countries. CUNY offers many funding opportunities for international students and provides student housing, which is a great way to get involved in student life and peer engagement.

To maintain their immigration status, international students must also complete the necessary paperwork. Before attending CUNY, prospective students must complete Form I-20 or DS-2019. After the college has determined that the student has provided the required information and has sufficient funds to support their education and living expenses, the International Student Advisor will mail Form I-20 for prospective F-1 students and Form DS-2019 for prospective J-1 students. These forms are integral in maintaining immigration status within the US.

International students educated in countries where English is not the official language must provide official academic transcripts and diplomas in both their native language and an English translation. All translations must be literal and complete versions of the original records, and the University reserves the right to reject translations that do not meet their guidelines.

Additionally, international students must maintain their student visa status. Students who are not US citizens or permanent residents must have a student visa status that allows study at CUNY. The F-1 Student Visa is obtained with an I-20 Certificate of Eligibility, which is issued by CUNY to students who have accepted their offer of admission, meet the English language proficiency requirement, and have verified sufficient financial resources.

It is important to note that CUNY does not mandate health insurance for F-1 students, but it is highly recommended that international students and their dependents purchase international student health insurance to reduce the high costs of out-of-pocket medical expenses, access a wide range of healthcare providers, and ensure they have medical evacuation and repatriation benefits to their home countries.

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There are various accommodation options for international students

The City University of New York (CUNY) takes pride in its international student body and offers many resources to aid students in their transition to the U.S. There are various accommodation options for international students at CUNY.

Firstly, CUNY offers on-campus student housing, which is a growing community for CUNY students. Residential students benefit from living on campus with increased opportunities for peer engagement and student involvement. One such example is the Towers, located on the CCNY campus, which offers student residence at an affordable yearly cost.

Secondly, there are off-campus accommodation options available for international students. These include shared student housing, which can range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month in New York City. To find off-campus accommodation, it is recommended to use verified student housing platforms such as University Living, which partners with trusted housing providers and lists pre-verified, student-safe properties.

When booking student housing, it is important to have all the required documents ready, including a passport copy and a university admission letter.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the Office of Graduate Studies at CUNY has compiled a list of useful resources to help international students navigate life in the U.S., which may include information on accommodation options.

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International students can benefit from health insurance

The City University of New York (CUNY) is made up of 25 colleges and welcomes international students. International students at CUNY can benefit from health insurance in several ways. Firstly, international student health insurance is required by most universities and visas. This means that having health insurance is essential for international students at CUNY to maintain their immigration status within the United States.

Secondly, international student health insurance provides valuable protection and peace of mind. In the event of an illness or injury, international students with health insurance can access and pay for quality care without worrying about exorbitant medical bills. This can help students focus more on their studies rather than stress about health services and their costs.

Thirdly, international student health insurance plans are designed specifically to meet the unique needs of students studying outside of their home country. These plans often include benefits like sports coverage, mental health support, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation. They may also cover maternity expenses, pre-existing conditions, and prescriptions.

Lastly, international student health insurance plans tend to be more affordable than other insurance plans. Students under the age of 25 can typically find plans for under $100 per month, with some options as low as $24 per month. These plans are intended to cover new illnesses or injuries, while wellness or preventative care may not be included. Overall, international student health insurance provides essential protection, valuable benefits, and affordable coverage for international students at CUNY.

Frequently asked questions

International students at CUNY are required to submit an online admission application, official certificates, detailed transcripts, and translations (if necessary). Applicants whose first language is not English and who hold a temporary visa are required to take the TOEFL or IELTS. International students must also maintain their immigration status by obtaining an F1 or J1 visa.

One option for international students at CUNY is to stay in a residence hall located on a CUNY campus. Many students also find their own accommodation, such as by subletting a room in an apartment.

While CUNY does not offer scholarships for international students, there are other financial resources available. The International Student & Scholar Services Office provides recommendations to assist in financing a graduate international education.

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