An international student is a citizen of another country who enters the U.S., usually on a visa or work authorization card, and enrolls at a U.S. educational institution. Students holding permanent resident cards (green cards) and U.S. citizens born outside the United States technically are not international students.
When may international students enroll at Vol State?
International students are welcome to enroll in any semester they choose. We recommend that international students apply well in advance: by March 1 for the summer semester, June 1 for the fall semester, or October 1 for the spring semester.
Is language testing required for international students?
International students are required to take the TOEFL or MELAB and achieve a minimum score prior to enrolling in classes, unless the students’ native language is English or they are only enrolling in ESL classes. Exceptions also may be made for students who graduated from high school in the United States, or who have completed English composition with a grade of "C" or better at an institution of higher learning. Language placement testing may also be required. The minimum score on the TOEFL is 500 for the paper-based test, or 173 for the computer-based test. The minimum score for the MELAB is 72.
What other requirements must international students meet?
Like all Vol State applicants, international students applying to degree-seeking programs must submit official transcripts showing completion of high school, as well as official transcripts from any post-secondary institutions. (Transcripts not issued in English must be accompanied by certified translations.) Official transcripts are defined as those sent directly from the academic institution previously attended to Vol State. ACT or SAT scores are required for students who enter college before they turn 21, and proof of proper immunizations also are required for everyone. The COMPASS, or placement test, is also required prior to registration.
In addition, international students must provide copies of their visas and I/94s (arrival/departure records), along with copies of any other pertinent immigration paperwork. Since individual situations vary, students are notified which immigration papers are required. Students on F-1 or M-1 (student) visas are also required to provide an official financial statement showing ample funds (currently $19,966.00), for a year of living in the area and studying at Vol State. They must also purchase the Tennessee Board of Regents health insurance policy for international students, which is currently $202 per semester. Note: These figures are subject to change without notice.
Are international students required to enroll full-time?
International students on student (F-1 or M-1) visas are required to enroll full-time. International students with work authorization or other types of visas may, and probably should, enroll part-time to maintain legal status.
Are international students eligible for in-state tuition rates at Vol State?
Not in most cases. Those holding F, M, or B class visas are never eligible for in-state tuition. Students holding certain types of work visas may be eligible, but they must apply for in-state residency through the Office of Admissions and Records.
Are international students eligible for federal financial aid?
No. International students are not eligible for loans, grants, or the work-study program. They may be eligible for school-sponsored or privately sponsored scholarships, if the scholarships don’t stipulate that only U.S. citizens or permanent residents may apply.
Where can international students get further information?
Detailed answers to all of these questions are provided in the college catalog, or under the International Student category of Vol State’s admissions web page. Students with more specific questions or unique situations should speak with Jane McGill in the Admissions and Records Office at (615) 452-8600, extension 3558.
