International Students FAQ

How can I apply to UF?

Applications can be submitted via our Apply page.

Are there admissions requirements specifically for students applying from abroad?

International students are welcome to apply to any of our master’s, certificate, or non-degree programs. International students should carefully review the minimum requirements section of the respective program of interest. Any additional application materials that are needed for international applications are included on the minimum requirement pages below:

Is there an application fee? Can it be waived for international students?

There is a non-refundable $30 application fee. It cannot be waived for international students.

Will I need a student visa?

No, all of our coursework is entirely online and there is no requirement to come to the U.S. for our programs.

Am I eligible for an F-1 visa?

Foreign National Students in online programs are not eligible for the F-1 visa.

How will I be able to check on the status of my application and receive my admissions decision?

You will receive a unique eight digit UFID number that will allow you to check the status of your application materials. This UFID number will be generated at the time you submit your application. Admission decisions are sent to applicants via email to the address provided during the application steps.

How will I know if my application has arrived?

You can use your temporary username and password to log into your application and verify if it was successfully submitted.

How do I know if I qualify as an international applicant?

If you have earned any degrees outside of the United States or you currently reside outside of the United States, you are considered an international applicant.

Financial, Test Scores & Documents

Does UF offer any scholarships for international students?

Unfortunately, no. UF does encourage students to research external scholarship opportunities.

How long are my TOEFL scores valid?

Scores are valid for 2 years after the test date. For more information about the TOEFL exam, see their website.

Will I need to have my transcripts evaluated?

Graduate applicants must submit an official, original document in the native language of each transcript/mark sheet and diploma/degree certificate from each university or college attended. If the native language for the documents is not English, certified, literal (exact) English translations are required. The English translation may come from your university or may be completed by a certified translator.

Where should I send my documents?

Your transcript/mark sheet and diploma/degree certificate with English translations, if required, should be assembled by you and sent to the address below in one package. If you would like your transcript/mark sheet and diploma/degree certificate returned to you, you must provide a return shipping label and return packaging in the package that you send. You must also include this checklist, filled out, in the package that you send containing your documents.

University of Florida
Attn: Distance Education Support Services
1225 Center Dr. Room #4332
Gainesville, FL 32610

Can I send a photocopy of my diploma and transcripts?

We cannot accept photocopies, scans, or faxes of diplomas or transcripts. We must have your original diploma verifying that the degrees reported were earned. We keep the diploma locked and safe until after your application materials are processed and an application decision can be made. Once a decision is made, we will send your diploma back to you via the label and packaging that you provide. While the University of Florida handles all documents with care, we are not responsible for documents that are lost or damaged in the mail.