International Student FAQ 🌍
International Student FAQ 🌍
Each summer, students from around the world join us in New York City to explore their academic passions, build lifelong connections, and experience the vibrant culture of Barnard and the city that never sleeps.
This page is designed to answer your questions about eligibility, visas, program details, and life on campus. Whether you're wondering about application requirements or how we’ll support you during your time here, we’ve got you covered.
General
Yes, international students are eligible to apply, provided they meet the age and academic requirements of the program.
No. International students in our non-credited programs are not required to hold a student visa in order to attend the Pre-College Program at Barnard. Since Pre-College students are only in class for up to 18 hours a week, and the program is less than 90 days, a student visa is not necessary.
International students are not eligible to apply for the credit-bearing Pre-Baccalaureate program at this time.
A visitor visa is required of international students in order to enter the country and participate in our exploratory programs. As published by the U.S. Department of State, a visitor visa (B-2) is required of any individual who takes a non-credit course in which classes are held for a short period of time.
It is recommended to apply for your visa as soon as you receive your acceptance letter and any supporting documentation from our office, as processing times can vary.
Our office can provide an official acceptance letter and other documentation if needed for your visa application, but you must handle the visa process yourself.
Yes. If a student is traveling to the Pre-College Program from a visa waiver eligible country, they may be eligible to enroll in the Visa Waiver Program. Please refer to the U.S. Department of State's page on Visa Waiver Program for more information.
Out tuition does not differ based on location. All enrolled students will pay the same amount for our exploratory programs. Visit our Tuition and Financial Aid page for more detailed information.
No. Our office does not provide financial aid for international students at this time.
International students are required to have health insurance that covers them while in the United States for the duration of the program.
Travel and Transportation
Students can only check in on their program's official start date. Early check-ins or move-ins are not permitted.
You must book a hotel or other temporary accommodation near the campus until check-in begins on the program's official start date.
You are responsible for arranging your travel to and from the program, but detailed arrival and departure guidelines will be provided a few weeks before the start of the program.
While it may not be required, travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover any unexpected medical or travel issues.
No. Students are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the airport.
Review the pre-arrival materials provided by our office, ensure all required documents are in order, and connect with other participants when available.
You should contact our office immediately. We will provide instructions on how to proceed with late check-in.
Programs and Coursework
No. International applicants are not required to submit any english proficiency scores. If your primary language is not English or your current school does not teach in English, you may be required to submit alternate proof of English proficiency.
Classes and program activities are conducted in English. If you are proficient in English, you should be able to fully participate.
Yes, you will receive a certificate of completion and instructor evaluation upon successful completion of your program and/or course, which can be a valuable addition to your academic portfolio.
Yes, most courses include homework, readings, or projects to be completed outside of class time. The workload will vary depending on the course.
Course changes are generally not allowed once the program starts. However, exceptions may be made in special circumstances during the first few days.
Residential Life
Yes. Meals are provided as part of the tuition for residential students, with options to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
Yes, we offer on-campus housing for international students, creating a supportive environment for those coming from abroad.
Yes, our on-campus and off-campus activities are designed to help international and domestic students connect.
Enrolled students will also have the opportunity to connect with other students prior to the start of the program.
We have staff available 24/7 to assist with emergencies. Contact information and emergency protocols will be provided during orientation.
Yes, there will be access to an on-campus nurse. You must have valid health insurance for the duration of your stay.
Yes, the program includes a variety of weekend activities and excursions. You will receive a schedule at the start of the program.
Students may leave campus during free time, but only with another student within the established perimeter and with program-approval.
Students will live in dormitory-style accommodations on campus, typically sharing a room with one or more peers.
Dorms typically include beds, desks, chairs, a closet, and shared bathrooms. Laundry facilities and common areas are also available.
Linens are available to rent at an extra charge.
We allow roommate requests, but placements are generally made based on compatibility factors, such as interests or sleeping habits.
Yes, a curfew is enforced to ensure student safety. The specific time will be communicated during orientation.
Questions?
Please reach out to us at pcp@barnard.edu if you have any other questions or concerns and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible!