Application Process

Deadlines

It is recommended that international students applying to attend Columbia International University begin the admission process nine to twelve months (9-12) in advance of their intended enrollment date.  The table below lists the deadlines for application to admission for the semester you would like to begin your studies.

• Initial attendance students are not currently in the United States and will require an F-1 visa.
• Transfer students currently attend a school within the United States or are on OPT and want to transfer to Columbia International University.
• Change of status students require a change from their current status to an F-1.

Online Application, Instructions, & Forms

We are excited that you're considering attending Columbia International University - where we prepare world Christians "To Know Him and To Make Him Known".  To begin the process of joining the CIU family, fill out the online application, following the instructions and filling out supplemental forms.

TOEFL

All students enrolled in Columbia International University are required to be proficient in the English Language.  For international students in which English is not the primary language of their country, the TOEFL® exam must be taken to demonstrate one's effectiveness with the English language. 

Columbia International University only accepts the TOEFL® to test an applicant's English language ability.  Individuals who will need to take the TOEFL® exam should consult the TOEFL® website to learn more about locations, times, and costs associated with the exam.

The TOEFL® can be waived if the applicant has completed a degree in which English was the primary medium of instruction.

Transcripts & Transcript Evaluation

A necessary part of your application includes transcripts from all previously attended education institutions.  Our accrediting agency (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) requires official transcripts, which is defined as being received by Columbia International University in a sealed envelope from the previous educational institution.

All transcripts that are not from an American institution must be evaluated. Two sets of transcripts should be requested: one for CIU and one to be evaluated by a foreign credential evaluation agency. A course-by-course evaluation is required and the transcript must be converted to the American Grade Point Average

system. Transcripts in a language other than English must also include an official English translation. A list of recommended evaluation agencies is listed below to assist you. The translation and evaluation fees must be paid directly to the agency performing the service. Columbia International University recommends that all international transcripts be evaluated by:

World Education Services, Inc.

Bowling Green Station

P.O. Box 5087

New York, NY 10274-5087

Tel: (212)-966-6311

Other recommended international transcript evaluation agencies:

AACRAO

One Dupont Circle NW, Suite 520,

Washington, DC 20036

Tel: (202) 293-9161

Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.

P.O. Box 51470

Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470

Tel: (414) 289-3400