International First-Year Student Admission

Here's how to apply to USF:

1. Complete the Common Application, USF's Direct Application* or the Coalition Application by the application deadline. All applications are treated equally in the admission process, so you can pick whichever one works best for you. (*The USF direct application is for non-nursing majors only)
2. Don’t forget to also send these supplemental materials:
   • Official transcripts: You'll need a transcript from each school that you've attended, plus a certified translation if the transcript is not in English. Your school counselor may also directly email your transcript(s) and your school report to appservices@usfca.edu.
     
     We’ll accept unofficial transcripts as long as they are in PDF format and clearly show your full name, your school's name, your courses, and your grades. Unreadable or illegible PDF documents will not be accepted. If you are admitted to USF and you choose to enroll, you’ll be asked to provide your official final transcript.
   • English proficiency test scores: If English is not your native language, you are required to submit official results of the TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo English test. Learn more about our English language proficiency requirements, including how to waive these requirements.
   • Certification of Finances: International students intending to study on an F-1 or J-1 visa must verify their ability to pay for their first year at USF. Learn more about the Certification of Finances.
     
     If you are intending to study at USF on a different visa (e.g. E-2, H-4, R-2, etc.), please email a copy of your visa to appservices@usfca.edu.
   • (Optional) Gap Year explanation: If you have taken, are currently taking, or plan to take a gap year or additional time off after completing high school, there is a section on the Common Application for you to explain how you have spent your time or how you plan to spend your time.
   • (Optional) SAT or ACT scores: USF does not require students to submit standardized test scores when applying for undergraduate admission. Learn more about our Test Optional policy.
     
     International students must still demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting an official TOEFL or IELTS score, or by meeting one of the waiver requirements listed on the English language proficiency page.
     
     If you do choose to submit your scores, you may have them sent directly from the testing agency, or you may send unofficial (self-reported) scores. You can send a screenshot of your test scores (name, test date, scores, and subscores must be visible), or have your counselor email us your score reports or an updated transcript with your scores to appservices@usfca.edu.
     
     The writing sections of the SAT are not used in the evaluation process. USF will continue to superscore both the SAT and ACT. If you submit both scores for our review, we will use the highest score available for our admission review.
3. Pay the nonrefundable application fee. Fee waivers are available through the Common App, NACAC, or College Board. Contact your admission counselor for more information.