Students from other countries attending Harper College are termed “international” students, according to the following definition: “A person who is a citizen of a country other than the United States who has a visa for educational purposes (F-1) with an intent to return to his or her homeland upon completion of his or her educational program.”

International students must carry a minimum of 12 semester hours or be enrolled in the Intensive English Program. Because no scholarships or grants are available to international students, it is essential that students from outside the United States have sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in this country.

International students are not considered residents of the College district for purposes of admission to Limited Enrollment Programs.

International students are required to have health insurance coverage and will be charged an individual health insurance fee each semester. Students can receive a credit for the fee if they provide proof of equivalent coverage.

International students will be required to submit the following to the Admissions Office at least eight weeks prior to the beginning of the semester or summer session in which they intend to begin their studies: This information is subject to change by the INS. Please consult harpercollege.edu for updates.

1. A completed Harper application with a non-refundable $175.00 application fees.

2. Official transcripts for at least the last four years of secondary school study and any university-level or postsecondary school work that has been completed or attempted. All these records must list all subjects taken, grades earned or examination results in each subject, minimum and maximum grades possible and all diplomas and certificates awarded. If these documents are not in English, they must be accompanied by authorized English translations.

3. An official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score report. To be considered for admission, students must receive a minimum converted score of 210. This requirement will be waived for students applying to the Intensive English Program.

4. An affidavit of support signed by the party who will be supporting the student. The affidavit must be accompanied by statements from the bank and employer of the party who will be supporting the student. (If students are able to document sufficient financial resources to support themselves, this will be considered adequate.)

5. A Harper College declaration of intention.

6. A written statement regarding what the student plans to study at Harper. (This requirement will be waived for students applying to the Intensive English Program.)

7. A Harper College “Educational Background Information Sheet.”

8. International Student Responsibility Checklist.

9. Copy of passport (visa stamp and I-94 card if already in the United States).

10. Photograph

11. Copy of I-20 if student is transferring from another U.S. college or university.

INS has enacted new regulations effective 1/1/03 that impact international students. Call the International Student Office for specific information (847.925.6226).