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International
Students' Frequently Asked Questions
Does
Tri-State offer English as a Second Language (ESL)?
No, we do not have an ESL program. If you have
not taken the TOEFL or have scored below 550, you will be required to
take an English proficiency test when you arrive on campus. Your test
scores will indicate whether or not you will need to be enrolled in
preparatory English classes, which do not count toward a degree. Our
TOEFL code is 1811.
Are
there any students studying at Tri-State from my country? How can I
contact them?
There are students from over 18 countries studying at Tri-State.
The International
Students Association has a list of email addresses of students interested
in communicating with new students.
What
are my chances of being accepted?
Tri-State looks for international students who have successfully
completed the full sequence of secondary studies and examinations in
their country with strong academic achievements. Student should also
be fluent in English and have adequate financial arrangements (as required
by law).
How
soon will I know whether or not I have been accepted?
It will take about 30 days for your COMPLETE application to be evaluated
and the decision mailed to you.
Do
I need to submit SAT, TOEFL or GRE scores to be accepted?
Yes. Tri-State uses the SAT I for
awarding scholarship to first year students. Athletes must achieve a
minimum total of 850 on the SAT I to participate in intercollegiate
athletics. Therefore, it is recommended that all first year students
and athletes take the SAT I. Tri-State recommends the TOEFL but it is
not required. The GRE is for graduate studies only.
Will
my extracurricular activities be taken into consideration while making
a decision?
No. Tri-State does not require evidence of extracurricular activities
for acceptance.
When
do I find out about my scholarship?
If you are awarded a scholarship, the letter will be mailed with
your acceptance letter.
Can
I receive more than one scholarship?
If you qualify for several scholarships, you will be awarded whichever
is of greatest financial value.
How
do I confirm my acceptance?
You confirm your acceptance by sending your $1,500 international
deposit. The confirmation deposit must be paid before an I-20 will be
issued.
How
do I get housing?
Housing information is sent to all accepted students. You must return
a completed housing questionnaire and contract with a $150 deposit to
be placed in on-campus housing, this deposit should be sent to the office
of admission. Residence Life staff handles all housing assignments.
I’m
currently attending another university, how much transfer credit do
I get if I come to TSU?
You must attend a US university or a post secondary program recognized
by your home country’s government to receive transfer credit. The amount
of transfer credit is determined by a transfer evaluation. Tri-State
will try to match your courses to Tri-State courses in your selected
major. To complete this match the Office of International Admission
needs course descriptions for all your courses taken at another university.
You must apply for admission to receive an evaluation.
Can
I work once I get there?
US immigration law allows international
students to work on campus for 20 hours per week while school is in
session. While it is possible for new students to find an on campus
job at Tri-State, we recommend that students wait one semester before
working. It takes about one semester to adjust to life in the US and
at university.
How
much money can I earn by working?
Not enough to pay for your school fees! Campus jobs pay minimum
wage or $5.15 an hour and students must pay US taxes on all earnings.
Therefore you can earn about $1,200 per semester. Off campus jobs are
prohibited until you have been on campus for one academic year.
How
do I pay for my school fees?
School fees are due at the beginning of each semester or two times
per year (bills are due August 1 for fall semester). Fees may be paid
by bank draft, bank wire, US check, traveler’s checks, credit card or
cash.
Must
I have health insurance?
All Tri-State students are required to have health insurance. Medical
costs can be very high in the US, so Tri-State has arranged for a special
health insurance for all international students. This insurance allows
you to see a doctor for a small fee. Your Tri-State bill includes the
cost of this insurance.
How
do I get a visa?
After you receive your I-20 and acceptance letter, you should contact
the American Embassy
or Consulate in your country to verify requirements for obtaining a
student visa. Appointments may need to be booked weeks in advance of
your departure. Take all of your original academic documents and financial
statements along with our letter of acceptance and I-20. The visa officer
may closely examine your academic documents; your financial documents
including bank statements, business documents and tax statements; and
your intentions to return to your home country. You should be prepared
for your meeting with the visa officer. It is a good idea to practice
your interview at home.
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