International Student Admissions
Your guide to international admissions, applying, language requirements, and more.
Join a Multicultural Community
We’re so happy that you are interested in taking a big step to apply to North Central University and trust us with your education. The process for applying to study internationally is different from applying as a domestic student, and our Admissions team is here to help along the way!
NCU is a multicultural community by design. Every year, students from around the world join our passionate, Spirit-empowered community to follow their callings and pursue their goals. NCU has welcomed students from Austria, Canada, Hong Kong, Sweden, Trinidad and Tobago, the U.K., Vietnam, and beyond.
International Admissions Quick Facts
NCU Students Represent 12 Countries of Origin
So far, students from 12 countries of origin and counting have chosen to expand their education and cultural experiences at NCU.
Study Online or on Campus
Enroll in on-campus courses for an immersive Christian university experience in Minneapolis, or learn online while still connected to our supportive community.
Qualify to Work on Campus
Most international students qualify for up to 20 hours of work study employment on campus per week.
International Application Steps
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Get started with an online application. You will need to create an account to follow up on your application status. If you haven’t already communicated with an admissions counselor, a member of our team will contact you soon.
Step 2: Submit Your Records of Previous Study
Please submit complete credentials (also called transcripts) from all high schools, home schools, secondary schools, colleges, universities, normal schools, or technical schools that you have attended. These credentials should indicate the certification, degree or diploma earned (if any) and a listing of all subjects studied the grades or letters or marks that were achieved in examinations.
If these documents are in a language other than English, all documents need to be accompanied by an official translation into English. All international transcripts must be properly formatted and translated to reflect the U.S. grading equivalent in order for us to properly review your file for admission.
Recommended transcript evaluation and translation providers:
- Foreign Credentials Service of America
- Ed Evals (formerly International Educational Equivalency Evaluation Services, Inc.)
- Evaluation Service, Inc.
- Transcript Research
- Educational Credential Evaluators
- World Education Services
Step 3: Obtain English Certification
If you are applying from a non-English speaking country, you will need to submit the scores of an English Certification Test (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test.
These scores are required for admission to NCU (complete one):
- 61 or higher on the internet-based TOEFL test
- 170 or higher on the TOEFL computer test
- 500 or higher on the TOEFL paper test
- 6.5 or higher on the IELTS test
Applicants from the following countries whose primary language is English are exempt from the English language test requirement: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Dominica, England, Federated States of Micronesia, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Montserrat, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Palau, Scotland, Seychelles, Shetland Islands, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Wales, U.S. Territories including American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Virgin Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which majors can I choose from?
View our list of available undergraduate majors and minors. In addition to on-campus residential programs, we offer several online degree programs, including master’s degrees.
Learn more about our Christ-centered academic programs and see which one is right for you.
How much does it cost to attend NCU?
Tuition rates and fees are updated annually. See the current tuition and fees. North Central is one of the most affordable, accredited Christian colleges in the United States. Your costs will depend on whether you are pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or online degree program, as well as optional fees you select, such as parking and athletics.
What scholarships are available for international students?
All residential undergraduate students receive some kind of financial aid at NCU. This may include scholarships, grants, and work study opportunities, as well as student loans. Explore the grants and scholarships available to NCU students.
Can I work while attending North Central University?
Yes! Many of our international students work part time while they are enrolled during the year. International students are permitted to work on campus up to 20 hours a week. We regularly post work study job openings online.
How do I apply for a student visa?
Review this information from Study in the States for how to apply for a visa to travel to the United States.
I’m already accepted. What’s next?
Congratulations on being accepted! Your next step is to obtain your student visa and prepare for enrollment. Review these resources to help you through the process:
- International Instructions after Acceptance (pdf)
- International Admissions Policy (pdf)
- International Financial Statement (pdf)
- International Important Contacts (pdf)
Please contact our Admissions team with any questions.
Start Your Journey Today
Ready to take the next step? Fill out the form to request more information about North Central University. Our Admissions team will contact you shortly!