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Do I need to be accepted into an undergraduate
or graduate academic program to take courses at BU during the
summer?
You do not have to be accepted into a degree program
to take summer courses at Boston University. For students who
want an American educational experience, but cannot afford the
time and the money for a traditional degree program, a Summer
Term session is ideal.
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Do I need to take the TOEFL?
Taking the TOEFL is not necessary for course registration
in the summer. However, English is the language of instruction
at Boston University and most academic programs require a 550
paper-based score or 215 computer-based score.
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How many summer courses can
I take?
Students can take up to two summer
courses or eight credits during each six-week summer session.
United States immigration regulations require all international
students in F-1 immigration status to maintain full-time registration
throughout the duration of their summer programs. Full time
enrollment is defined as two courses (or eight credits) for
one six-week session, or three courses (12 credits) if you enroll
for the whole summer.
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When can I register for summer
courses?
Although the normal date for registration
is March 5, international students can register now for summer
classes. Processing of student visas can be lengthy, and to
better accommodate international students, we start the registration
process earlier. International students should send in their
registration and other international forms as soon as possible.
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Who needs to apply for an I-20
from Boston University to study in the summer?
Any international student who is coming to the United
States for the purpose of taking classes at Boston University
must apply for an I-20 from Boston University and a student
visa from their home country. For Boston University to issue
an I-20, full-time study by the student is required. Full-time
study is enrolling in eight credits if coming for only one summer
session, or 12 credits if studying for the entire summer. For
further information on summer visas, click here.
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How long will it take for me
to get my I-20 from Boston University?
Once you have filled out all of your
forms and provided us with all necessary documentation,
it should take us approximately 15 business days to process your I-20.
It will then be mailed to you by courier (FedEx or DHL) international
express (2-3 day delivery schedule). You will then need to pay the SEVIS fee and schedule an interview with your local United States Consulate to obtain approval of your visa.
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Are there any scholarships or
financial aid for international students who study at Boston
University during the summer?
There are no scholarships or financial aid available
during the summer for visiting students (either domestic or
international). All international students must provide their
own funding for their summer study.
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Where will I live?
Housing and meal services are available to students
registered for the Summer Term. Dormitory-style and apartment-style
residences are available on a space-available basis. Some students
also choose to live in apartments or with family members. Boston
is a wonderful city to experience during the summer regardless
of which housing option you choose. Further housing information
can be found at www.bu.edu/housing/summer.
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Do I need to bring my own computer?
It is always convenient to have your own computer and
all University residences are equipped with Internet-ready connections,
but do not feel that a computer is a necessity. Students at
Boston University have access to a wide variety of computing
resources for communication, course-work, instruction and research.
Click
here to learn more.
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Do I need University health
insurance?
All students enrolled at Boston University during the
summer must have valid health insurance. To purchase University
health insurance, call Student Accounting Services at 617-353-2870
or go to their website at www.bu.edu/comp/saweb.
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Where will my bill be sent?
Your bill will be sent to the home address indicated
on your registration form. Note, however, that you must pay
your charges by the dates indicated in the Summer
Term calendar, even if you have not yet received a bill
in the mail.
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Is there anything I must do
once I arrive at Boston University for my summer classes?
U.S. Immigration regulations require that you report
to the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) immediately
upon your arrival. Please bring your Certificate of Eligibility
(I-20/DS-2019), passport, I-94 card, and all previous immigration
documents to the ISSO office at 19 Deerfield Street, Second
Floor, Boston, MA 02215. It is critical that you report to the
ISSO immediately upon your arrival at Boston University, as
the ISSO is required to notify the Department of Homeland Security
about your arrival and full-time registration. Failure to report
to the ISSO or to register and study full-time may jeopardize
your lawful student status in the United States.
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If I attend BU full-time during
the school year, do I need to complete the summer forms for
international students?
If you attend BU during the school year and you will continue
at BU in the fall, you can simply enroll in summer courses using
the Student Link. No additional paperwork is needed.
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Are there any opportunities to continue my studies at Boston University after my summer courses are finished?
Any international student who comes to the United States on
a F-1 Student Visa and who is enrolled in Summer Session II,
may continue his/her studies in the fall semester at Metropolitan
College or BU Global. BU Global offers three and four month
diplomas and certificate programs to international students
every semester. For further information on the Boston University
Global see http://www.bu.edu/global/
or call 617-353-8429.
