International

You've got questions. We've got answers. 

Haven't found the answer to your question yet? If your question is regarding admissions procedures or university offerings, please see the following frequently asked questions. If you would like to learn more about what life is like at Iowa State, contact one of our International Student Ambassadors.

To use the FAQ, click on the question you would like answered. The answer will display below the question (close the answer by re-clicking same question).

Application process

An international student is typically defined as a someone who will be on a nonimmigrant visa, and who is neither U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States.

The letter of support is the promise of support for the student and is usually in the form of a letter from the parents or other sponsor. It should include how much money will be provided annually and how many years the student will be sponsored. A bank statement is a statement of account showing the first year's funds readily available or an official attestation from a bank officer that the promised funds are available.

Provided you notify us prior to your intended enrollment, you may defer your admission for up to one year without submitting a new application and fee.

No. If you have attended a university after completing high school, you are considered as a transfer student. If you have completed less than 24 credits, you must meet the freshman application requirements as well as the transfer requirements.

Entrance Exams

Yes. Completion of English courses in the United States will not exempt students from the TOEFL score requirement.

Yes. Students from any country in which English is the only official language are not required to take a TOEFL. A complete list is available here.

If you graduate from a US high school, you must take either the SAT or ACT.  If you graduate from a foreign school, you do not need to take these exams.