International Student Admissions

Students from foreign countries may be considered for degree admission if, in addition to satisfying the general requirements, they also demonstrate proficiency in English.

Standardized test scores from one of the following must be submitted with the application: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing Service (IELTS - Academic Test), Duolingo, SAT, or American College Test (ACT). Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit the TOEFL or IELTS - Academic Test. A minimum score of 550 is required for the written exam, 80 for the Internet-based score, and at least 213 for the computer-based test on the TOEFL.

An overall IELTS - Academic Test score at band 6.0 or above is required, and minimum scores of 6.0 for speaking, listening, reading, and writing are preferred to demonstrate proficiency in English.

International students are admitted for both the fall and spring semesters. Applications for the fall should be submitted to the Office of Admissions by May 1, while applications for the spring semester should be submitted by October 15. All students are required to submit an application fee. Accepted students must be able to verify their ability to fully meet all educational and living expenses before any immigration documents can be issued. Because of the amount of time it takes for a student visa to be secured, international applicants are encouraged to complete the admissions process well in advance of the May 1 and October 15 deadlines.

Evidence of completed academic credentials might be requested from the Admissions Committee after a preliminary review of the application. Submission requirements vary, and applicants should refer to guidelines set by the individual credential evaluation service. Acceptable evaluation services include Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc. (ECE); Josef Silny and Associates, Inc.; or World Educational Services (WES). Evaluations conducted by other National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) approved members will be considered. International students must apply electronically as well as supply all supporting documents to the Office of Admissions, allowing sufficient time for the admissions review and visa process to be completed. 

International students at West Chester University are required to carry adequate health insurance in the United States that is effective for all periods of time the student has been authorized to be in the United States by an immigration document issued by the University. Health insurance policies must be purchased through a company that sells insurance in the United States.  West Chester University complies with the coverage standards set forth by the Department of State which must be met by all insurance policies.  Information about the minimum standards is available at the Global Engagement Office, 610-436-3515.

To assure compliance with the insurance requirement, all international students must come to the Global Engagement Office  (GEO) by August 31 of each academic year (January 31 for students entering spring semester). At the GEO, students may obtain information as to the amount of insurance required and the means of obtaining coverage to meet the insurance requirement.