From anywhere in the world to Harden Street.
Allen University welcomes students from all over the world. We’ll guide you through admission, your I-20, and your visa, and support you once you’re here.
- The Bahamas
- Ghana
- South Africa
- Japan
- West Indies
If you’re not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, this page is for you.
Anyone who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien is classified as an international student applicant. International students come to Allen as full-time undergraduates.
TOEFL scores are required if your primary language is not English. If you need an F-1 student visa, you must submit proper financial documentation before a Form I-20 will be issued.
Apply to Allen
Complete the international admissions application and submit your documents.
Show financial support
Submit an affidavit of financial support in U.S. dollars. Your Form I-20 is issued after proper financial documentation is submitted.
Pay the SEVIS fee
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Apply for your F-1 visa
Schedule and attend your visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Arrive & check in
Arrive no earlier than 30 days before your program start date, then meet with the PDSO to confirm your status.
Visa and SEVIS requirements are set by the U.S. government. Confirm details with Allen’s PDSO and official U.S. government resources below.
Your application checklist.
Check items off as you go. Once Admissions receives your complete application, you’ll be notified within 3 days.
0 of 8 complete
Financing your education
International applicants must demonstrate the ability to meet the financial obligations of their college program. Financial assistance at Allen for international applicants is limited.
Need the financial statement?
Contact Allen’s Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) at meason@allenuniversity.edu.
From your I-20 to your first week on campus.
Before you leave home
- Check that your passport will remain valid.
- Review your I-20 carefully: your name, birth date, and program dates should be correct.
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee before your visa interview.
- Plan to arrive no earlier than 30 days before your program start date on your I-20.
- Pack your passport, visa, and I-20 in your carry-on, never in checked luggage.
- Bring your medical and immunization records. Allen asks all students to bring them.
- Make copies or scans of every important document.
When you arrive at Allen
- Check in with the PDSOVisit Allen’s PDSO when you arrive so your status can be confirmed.
- Move inAll first-year students live on campus.
- Get set upFull-time students receive a MacBook with access to related software, training, and certifications.
- Find your peopleJoin student organizations and campus activities through Student Activities.
Six habits that protect your status.
- Enroll full-timeStay enrolled full-time every fall and spring semester.
- Limit online classesFederal rules limit how many online credits count toward full-time enrollment. Talk with the PDSO before adding online or Acadeum courses.
- Work only as allowedOn-campus jobs are limited to 20 hours a week while school is in session. Off-campus work requires prior authorization (CPT or OPT).
- Keep documents validKeep your passport and I-20 current, and talk with the PDSO before your I-20 end date.
- Report changesReport a change of address to the PDSO within 10 days.
- Ask before you travelTalk with the PDSO before leaving the U.S. so you have what you need to return.
These are general federal F-1 rules. Your PDSO is your official guide. Learn more at Study in the States and ICE’s SEVIS employment guidance.
Far from home, never on your own.
We know you’re far from home and may need help managing your visa, education, and work requirements. Allen’s PDSO is your liaison to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the U.S. Department of State.
Visit the office with questions about:
- Your visa
- Immigration status
- Changes in USCIS regulations
- Work requirements
- Campus resources
Ms. Marilyn Eason
AVP, Enrollment Management
meason@allenuniversity.edu (803) 376-5802- Study in the States →The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s guide for F-1 students.
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee →The official site to pay your SEVIS fee.
- U.S. student visas →The U.S. Department of State’s guide to applying for a student visa.
- EducationUSA →Free U.S. government advising centers around the world.
International admission, answered.
Still have questions? Email the PDSO at meason@allenuniversity.edu.
Do international students have to study full-time?
Yes. International students come to Allen as full-time undergraduates.
Do I need to take the TOEFL?
Official TOEFL scores are required if your primary language is not English.
When will I receive my I-20?
Your Form I-20 is issued after you submit proper financial documentation.
Is financial aid available?
Financial assistance for international applicants is limited. You’ll need to demonstrate the ability to meet the financial obligations of your program.
How long does an admission decision take?
Once the Office of Admissions receives your complete application, you’ll be notified within 3 days.
Can I work while I study?
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours a week while school is in session. Off-campus work requires prior authorization, such as CPT or OPT. Talk with the PDSO before accepting any job.
Can I take online or Acadeum courses?
Federal rules limit how many online credits count toward an F-1 student’s full-time enrollment. Talk with the PDSO before registering for online or Acadeum courses.
Who do I contact with visa questions?
Allen’s Principal Designated School Official (PDSO) at meason@allenuniversity.edu.
Your global journey starts at Allen.
Join a community where students from around the world are welcomed by name.