Lana Oconnell
Alverno College, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is known for its abilities-based curriculum, which focuses on developing essential skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership. The college employs an assessment-based grading system, offering personalized feedback instead of traditional letter grades. This system may be particularly beneficial for international students, who receive individualized attention due to the small student-to-faculty ratio. International students applying to Alverno must submit proof of English language proficiency, transcripts evaluated by a credential evaluation agency, and financial documentation. They are exempt from submitting SAT or ACT scores, though these are encouraged if available. The Alverno grading system may positively impact international students by providing detailed feedback, facilitating continuous improvement, and ensuring they receive the guidance and support needed to succeed in their academic pursuits.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| SAT or ACT test scores | Not required for international students but encouraged |
| Proof of English language proficiency | Required if English is not the first language or if the student does not have documentation of completion of a degree with English as the language of instruction |
| Minimum GPA | 2.3 |
| Minimum STEP grade | Pre-1 |
| Transfer credits | Reviewed by Academic Advisors to ensure placement in appropriate coursework |
| Scholarships | Merit-based scholarships determined by academic record (GPA) |
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What You'll Learn
Alverno College's abilities-based curriculum
Alverno College is a Catholic women's college located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The college was founded in 1887 by the School Sisters of St. Francis and has since taken a bold, results-oriented approach to education.
Alverno's ability-based curriculum was launched in 1973 and was designed to provide students with more than a basic understanding of the subject matter being taught. The curriculum focuses on eight core abilities: communication, analysis, problem-solving, valuing in decision-making, social interaction, developing a global perspective, effective citizenship, and aesthetic engagement. These abilities are woven into every course and are designed to empower students to become agents of change and principled leaders who meaningfully engage with their communities.
The eight abilities represent the core, transferable skills that employers sought 50 years ago and continue to seek today. Alverno's curriculum is designed to help students master these skills and apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. Instead of using traditional letter grades, Alverno provides students with significant narrative feedback describing the quality of their performance relative to college-wide standards. This feedback helps students understand their strengths and areas for growth and pushes them to reach their highest potential.
Alverno's ability-based curriculum has been influential, with other well-respected institutions like Reed University, Brown University, and Stanford and Yale Law Schools having since dropped standard letter grades in favour of more comprehensive assessment models.
For international students, Alverno's grading system may offer a more holistic evaluation of their performance and potential. Instead of focusing on a single letter grade, international students can benefit from the narrative feedback and real-world application of the ability-based curriculum. However, it is important to note that international students applying to Alverno College may still be required to submit standardised test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, and have their non-U.S. transcripts evaluated by a foreign credential evaluator.
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Assessment-based grading system
Alverno College has a unique ability-based curriculum and assessment model that focuses on the development and demonstration of eight core abilities. These abilities are valued by employers and are designed to prepare students for a complex and changing world. The eight abilities are: communication, analysis, problem-solving, valuing, social interaction, global perspective, effective citizenship, and aesthetic engagement.
The Alverno grading system is based on this abilities-based model, and students are assessed on their demonstration of these abilities in their coursework. This means that instead of receiving traditional letter grades, students receive narrative evaluations that describe their performance in relation to these eight abilities. For example, a student might receive feedback such as "Your analysis ability is strong, but you need to work on your communication ability."
This assessment-based grading system has several potential implications for international students:
- Transfer of Credits: International students transferring to Alverno College from another US college or university will need to have their credits evaluated by the Admissions Office. The college accepts transfer credits for courses taken at accredited institutions where the student earned a grade of C or better. However, the transferability of credits may be affected by the student's performance in relation to the eight core abilities, as demonstrated in their narrative evaluations.
- Demonstration of Core Abilities: International students may need to adapt to the abilities-based curriculum and assessment model, which focuses on the demonstration of core abilities rather than traditional letter grades. This may require a shift in study habits and strategies to ensure that assignments and projects effectively demonstrate proficiency in the eight core abilities.
- English Language Proficiency: International students whose first language is not English are required to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP Eiken scores. This requirement ensures that incoming students have the necessary language skills to engage effectively with the abilities-based curriculum and fully participate in classroom discussions and assignments.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Alverno College offers merit-based scholarships determined by a student's academic record, including their GPA. International students with strong academic performance and proficiency in the eight core abilities may be eligible for these scholarships, which can provide significant financial support for their studies.
Overall, the Alverno grading system, based on the demonstration of core abilities, may require international students to adapt to a different style of learning and assessment. By focusing on the development and evaluation of key abilities, this system prepares students for the complex demands of the modern workplace and equips them with valuable skills that extend beyond traditional academic measures.
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Transfer credit evaluation
Firstly, international students typically need to submit their official transcripts from previous educational institutions. These transcripts must be translated into English by a certified translator. The transcripts are then evaluated by the admissions office or a designated transfer evaluation team to determine eligibility for transfer credits. Some universities may require additional documentation, such as course syllabi and descriptions, to make a comprehensive assessment.
The evaluation process assesses whether the courses taken at the previous institution are similar in level, scope, and content to the courses offered at the university. It also considers the grades achieved, with a minimum grade requirement, typically a C or higher, needed for transfer credit eligibility. International students may also be required to provide evidence of their financial ability to study in the country and prove English language proficiency through tests like the SAT or ACT, though these tests are often not mandatory.
At Alverno College, international students must submit their transcripts for evaluation by a foreign credential evaluator. They recommend services such as Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or Education Evaluators International, Inc. A minimum grade of C in courses taken at accredited institutions is required for transfer credit consideration. Previous graduate courses with a minimum grade of B may also be considered for transfer, but individual graduate programs determine the eligibility and number of transfer credits accepted.
The transfer credit evaluation process can be streamlined through automation, ensuring a smooth transition for international students. Universities like MSU Denver have implemented semi-custom workflows to enhance communication and transparency during the evaluation process, keeping students informed about the status of their transcript evaluations.
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English language proficiency
International students applying to Alverno College must provide proof of English language proficiency. This is a standard requirement for non-native English speakers applying to US colleges and universities. The specific criteria and expectations for demonstrating proficiency can vary, and students are advised to carefully review the requirements of their intended institution.
At Alverno College, international students are required to submit proof of English language proficiency before the college will issue Form I-20, the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status. The college accepts proof of proficiency from recognised English language tests, including TOEFL, IELTS, and STEP Eiken. Minimum score requirements are as follows:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): a minimum score of 520 (written), 190 (computer), or 68 (internet) is needed. Alverno requires an official copy of the test results directly from the testing service.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): a minimum score of 5.5 is required, and Alverno needs a photocopy of the Test Report Form.
- Society for Testing English Proficiency, Inc. (STEP Eiken): a minimum grade of Pre-1 is required, and Alverno expects an official copy of the test results directly from the testing service.
In addition to these standardised tests, applicants may also demonstrate English proficiency through other means. For example, some institutions may consider successful completion of a degree with English as the language of instruction as sufficient proof. Alternatively, applicants may be able to demonstrate proficiency by completing transferable English composition courses and achieving specific grades ("C" or "B", depending on the campus).
Alverno College also offers support for multilingual learners through its Multilingual Learner (MLL) Support Program. This program assists both undergraduate and graduate students in developing their academic English skills and navigating between English and other languages in their academic and living environments. The program aims to expand the linguistic and cultural skills of international students and US residents who speak multiple languages at home.
It is important to note that English language proficiency requirements and accepted forms of proof can vary across institutions. While the above details pertain specifically to Alverno College, other colleges and universities may have slightly different criteria. International students should carefully review the admissions policies and requirements of their intended institution to ensure they meet the necessary English language proficiency standards.
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Scholarships and fees
Alverno College offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships, grants, student loans, and student employment opportunities to help students fund their education. The Roosevelt Scholarship, for instance, is a four-year, full-tuition scholarship awarded to a first-year undergraduate student who demonstrates excellence in leadership and volunteerism. Additionally, as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, all Alverno students, regardless of race or ethnicity, are eligible for additional scholarships through the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. The college also provides a network of support and a streamlined admissions process for transfer students.
The college's Financial Aid Office assists students in identifying scholarship opportunities from external organizations and with their scholarship applications. Students can utilize scholarship search engines like DREAMer's RoadMap and review eligibility requirements for various scholarships. Alverno College also offers grants and student loans to help students finance their education.
The total cost of attending Alverno College includes tuition, room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses. The net price is the average cost of the university after financial aid, grants, and scholarship funds are deducted from the total cost. To determine the expected family contribution, or EFC, colleges consider factors such as family income, the number of family members, and total assets. The difference between the net price and the EFC is the amount that students need to cover through outside scholarships, loans, or employment.
International students applying to Alverno College must submit official certified transcripts, including secondary/high school transcripts translated into English, and have their foreign transcripts evaluated by a credential evaluator. They must also demonstrate their financial ability to live and study in the United States for the first academic year. While SAT or ACT test scores are not required for international students, providing high scores can prove English language proficiency and make them eligible for merit scholarships.
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Frequently asked questions
International students wishing to transfer to Alverno College from another US college or university must submit an International Student Notice of Intent to Transfer. A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.3 is required, with courses showing a grade of C or above considered for transfer.
International students applying for graduate programmes at Alverno College must have completed a bachelor's degree programme from an accredited institution, with a minimum grade of "B" in previous graduate courses.
No, SAT or ACT scores are not required for international students applying to Alverno College. However, providing these scores may be advantageous, as they can prove English language proficiency and high scores may lead to merit-based scholarships.
International students applying to Alverno College must provide proof of English language proficiency, such as TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP Eiken scores, as well as financial documentation demonstrating the ability to live and study in the United States. Official transcripts and foreign credential evaluations are also required.
