International Students
Your Global Journey Starts Here
Join CIU’s International Community
At Columbia International University, you’ll join a vibrant community of students from over 40 countries, united by a shared mission: “To Know Him and Make Him Known.” Our graduates are making an impact in ministry, missions, and marketplaces across more than 150 nations. Plus, our faculty brings global expertise, having lived and worked in over 25 countries.
Qualifications
Who Qualifies as an International Student?
You are considered an international student if you:
- Are not a U.S. citizen
- Require a temporary U.S. visa to study (e.g., F-1 student visa)
After acceptance, we’ll guide you through the visa process, starting with your Form I-20 to apply for your F-1 visa.
Who Does Not Qualify?
You are not classified as an international student if you:
- Hold dual U.S. citizenship
- Are a permanent U.S. resident (proof of residency is required)
Admission Requirements
For F-1 visa applicants, additional requirements include:
- Demonstrate sufficient funding to cover educational expenses while attending CIU by providing the Certification of Funds Form
- Providing a deposit (credited toward tuition and fees)
Pro Tip: Stay on top of deadlines and fees to ensure a smooth application process!
Planning to study fully online? Great news—an F-1 visa is not required!
Admission Checklist
Prepare for your semester by ensuring all your documents are submitted and you’ve completed all items on your international student checklist. Your admissions counselor will guide you every step of the way to help you have a smooth transition to campus.
Scholarships
At CIU, we believe that financial concerns shouldn’t keep you from pursuing your calling as an international student. That’s why we offer a wide range of scholarships, grants, and loan options to help make your education more accessible.
Payments
CIU provides multiple payment options to help international students submit their deposit or bill for the semester.
Resources for You
Here are some helpful links to help answer more questions about living abroad.
- United States Immigration & Citizenship Services (USCIS) – Provides useful information on immigration laws and regulations, USCIS downloadable forms and other services.
- Passports & Visas – Essential information regarding your passport and F-1 visa to enter the United States.
- Financial Aid for International Students – A helpful link to calculate your cost of attendance.
- Association of International Educators (NAFSA) – NAFSA promotes the exchange of students and scholars to/from the United States.
- U.S. Department of State – The lead foreign-affairs agency to the U.S. government. Find information ranging from how to prepare for overseas trips to how to get non-immigrant U.S. visas abroad.
- Traveling to the United States – Helpful information on packing, air travel, budget/student travel, customs and immigration, and a map of the United States.
- Social Customs & Cultural Differences – Provides interesting information that will help prepare you for life in the United States.
- Living in the United States – Information about housing, banking, transportation, mailing and shipping, entertainment and much more.
- Study in the States – Provides international students with information on the U.S. student visa process, maintaining legal status, and navigating the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Questions?
Contact us at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.
