For International Students
Smith College Precollege Programs welcomes international students each year from around the world. You’ll find that our small classes, similar to the undergraduate experience at Smith, offer exceptional learning in an environment where women are taken seriously and inspired to excel as leaders. Smith is located in the northeastern region of the United States, an area with some of the highest concentrations of international students anywhere in the country.
Important COVID-19 Information
To learn more about Smith’s planning, see the “Culture of Care” website. We are currently planning for remote and on-campus options for summer 2021 and will have more information in January 2021.
English Language Proficiency
When applying for a program, please consider both your interest and familiarity with the subject as well as your level of English proficiency. In order to succeed in our challenging programs, you must be proficient enough in English to keep up with classroom lectures, participate in group discussions, read and write English at a fast pace, and communicate and connect with your peers. Your English proficiency is critical to having a positive experience.
English proficiency tests (TOEFL or IELTS) are required for international citizens. They are required for students being instructed in a language other than English. If a student has been instructed in English for two years or less, they are still required to submit English proficiency test results. Students who have been instructed in English for three years or more are not required to submit scores.
Please note that test requirement is based on citizenship, not on where a student attends school.
The following scores are recommended:
- TOEFL: We recommend a minimum TOEFL score of 90
- IELTS: We recommend a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5
Visa Process
All international students admitted to the precollege program and traveling to the United States must ensure they have a valid passport (valid for at least six months from date of entry) for travel to and from the program for the duration of the program.
F-1 Visa
Accepted international students who do not have U.S. citizenship or a green card will need to obtain an F-1 student visa. Within the application students will need to submit the following:
- Biographical page of your passport (photocopy)
If you hold a visa other than an F-1 that will allow you to study at Smith College, please contact our office. DO NOT plan to travel on a tourist visa.
Form I-20
The Form I-20 is required for the visa application process. Accepted students must pay their Smith College Precollege Program invoice in full before we can process your I-20. We will send the I-20 to you via international mail, which can take two weeks or more. Students who currently have an I-20 and F-1 Visa from another school in the U.S., submit copies of your:
- Current I-20
- Biographical page of your passport (photocopy)
- F-1 visa
- A letter from your current school confirming your lawful status and eligibility to continue your education there after completion of your precollege programs at Smith College.
Getting an F-1 Visa
Please note that visa processing and appointment wait times can take longer than expected. Allow adequate time for processing.
To apply for an F-1 Visa:
- Review Form I-20 and provide signature at the bottom of page 1. Parent/guardian must co-sign.
- Visit www.fmjfee.com to pay the SEVIS fee of $200 to the U.S. Government and keep your receipt. Proof of SEVIS fee payment is required to apply for the F-1 Visa.
- Complete your DS-160 Form and set up an F-1 Visa appointment with a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Follow the guidelines provided for requesting your F-1 Visa. Do not set up an appointment until you have paid your SEVIS fee and have received your Form I-20 from Smith College.
At your Visa appointment, be sure to bring the following documents:
- Form I-20
- SEVIS Fee Receipt
- Smith College Precollege Programs Acceptance Letter
- Receipt of payment in full for program and/or Certification of Finances
- Valid passport
More Information
Student and Exchange Visitor Program FAQs