The following provides additional information specific for International, Visiting (non-degree seeking), and Veteran Students. This information and these procedures are part of the admissions process for the MA and Certificate programs in Faith & Culture. Please refer to the Application
Process section of the website for a list of all basic requirements for application.
International Students:
1. International students whose second language is English must submit TOEFL scores with a minimum score of 550 (written), 250 (computer based), 100 (internet based). The student may also submit IELTS with a 6.5 score, or successfully complete the ELS Level 112 test.
2. Students must also submit official transcripts and certificate of completion of undergraduate degree to the Center for Faith & Culture along with $150 fee (cash or check).
Academic credentials may need to be evaluated by an independent evaluation agency. This need will be determined once transcripts are reviewed by the CFC Admissions Committee.
International students will be required to cover any additional costs, such as degree verification or translation services.
3. Applicants must be accepted into either the MAFC or the Certificate program before they can apply for their student visas.
4. International students are individually responsible for satisfying visa requirements. In some cases it takes longer than 30 days to receive a visa, therefore, the earlier international students begin the application process, the better.
The application for visa requires the help of the University’s International Student Advisor.
Please contact the Office for International Student Services at 713-525-3503.
Students on student visas are usually not allowed to be gainfully employed outside of the
University.
A student visa requires students to be enrolled full-time (9 graduate credit hours at UST) or the equivalent per semester.
During the final semester of the MAFC or the Certificate program, students are required to take only the credit hours needed to complete the program even if these are fewer than 9 hours.
5. A statement showing financial support must be provided (tuition, room, board, health insurance, etc). The Center for Faith & Culture, as an entity of the University of St. Thomas, is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students. Candidates from foreign countries will be considered for admission on a full-time basis only and must plan to earn a degree from UST.
Visiting (Non-Degree Seeking) Students:
The “Visiting Student” classification applies to all non-degree seeking students including those who desire to enroll in graduate level courses (regular on-campus courses and/or those offered as studyabroad options). In all cases, students should demonstrate eligibility