International Students

Bonjour! Hallo! Hujambo! Svēki! Hola! Konichiwa! Welcome!

We are pleased that you are considering Northeastern Seminary and are confident that you can gain a great deal from studying in this environment rich in diversity. As an international student, you will be part of that distinctive as all students contribute greatly to the seminary community by sharing experiences and cultures with other students.

Applying to Northeastern Seminary as an international student involves the following steps:

1. Seminary application – Complete application for admission for Masters or Doctor of Ministry (including TOEFL® score) and autobiographical statement, and obtain references and transcripts.
2. TOEFL® scores - The TOEFL® test is the most widely accepted English-language test in the world with 7,000+ destinations in 130+ countries accepting it. International students for whom English is not the first language are required to submit their TOEFL scores. If English is the first language of a student, a TOEFL score is not needed for admission. Once a student takes the test, they may have the scores sent electronically to Northeastern Seminary. These scores must be received before a student will be considered for admission.
3. Financial statement – The International Student Financial Statement (ISFS) is required before Northeastern Seminary will prepare an I-20 (educational visa) for an international student. The ISFS is sent to the student upon their acceptance into seminary. This document identifies how a student will pay for their education (proof of support) and does not need to be filled out before admission. This form does not have implications on whether someone is accepted or not.
4. I-20 – Following acceptance into the program and receipt and approval of the International Student Financial Statement, students work directly with an International Student Coordinator to begin the application process for an I-20. The I-20 application stands for "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status for Academic and Language Students." This is filled out by Northeastern Seminary and will require a signature by the student. Any fees associated with the I-20 are to be paid by the student.
5. Visa – following completion of the signed I-20 document, the student must apply for their visa. Students are responsible for applying for and receiving a visa. If they do not receive a visa, they will not be allowed to enter the country. The visa allows them to enter; the I-20 allows them to stay. Any fees associated with the visa are to be paid by the student.

International Student Financial Statement
SEVIS
SEVIS Fee Information for Canadian Students and International Students
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Tips for Applying for a Visa
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s FAQ list
TOEFL
World Education Services - International Academic Credential Evaluations
NAFSA: Association of International Educators

For additional information, please contact the office of admissions at seminary@nes.edu.