International Student Requirements

Loma Linda University is proud of its involvement in international education. The University has traditionally trained students to serve throughout the world which, in return, brings in a relatively high percentage of international students. International students comprise between 18 and 22 percent of the student population from 80 to 90 countries worldwide. This diversity of cultural perspectives enriches the University in many ways.

International students interested in Loma Linda University need to be aware of the admissions requirements to gain acceptance into one of the more than 150 program offerings. Acceptance into a program is based upon evidence of the academic qualifications, proficiency in English (both written and spoken), personal character, health, and financial responsibility.

Academic Qualifications

Each of Loma Linda University's eight schools evaluates the academic qualifications of individual applicants. Every effort is made to maximize the educational experience of international students during their time at Loma Linda University. In order to accomplish this, you must apply online and arrange for complete official transcripts, diplomas and/or certificates are needed to verify an applicant's educational background and qualifications. These documents, acquired from each educational institution attended by the applicant, must be sent directly to a credential evaluation service in the U.S. The credential evaluation service should be instructed to forward their evaluations to Loma Linda University records office at the following address:

English Proficiency

Courses at Loma Linda University are taught in English and both written, and spoken English proficiency are necessary. Lectures are often delivered at a rapid rate and note taking is expected. Term papers, theses and exams are expected to be written in clear and correct English. Therefore, it is necessary for an international student to possess a high level of English proficiency. A Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 213, on the computer-based exam, is generally required, though higher scores are more desirable.

Applicants must meet the specific program admission requirements for English proficiency before a student visa application (I-20 or DS-2019) form will be issued. However, high English proficiency, alone, does not assure acceptance into a program.

Regardless of nationality or citizenship, an applicant whose native language is not English or whose secondary education has been given outside the U.S. is required to pass a test of English proficiency.

Test results/scores are to be sent directly to LLU from the testing service.

University minimum scores: (programs may be stricter)

• TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date. If it has been more than two years since the test taker last took TOEFL, the test must be taken again. The institution code for Loma Linda University is 4062. TOEFL minimum scores: 

  • 80 - Internet-based

  • 550 - Paper-based, including a minimum final score of 5.0 on the TWE part (Test of Written English)

  • 8.5 - Essentials

• Duolingo English Test LLU minimum score is 105
• IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. LLU minimum score is 6.5

• MELAB LLU minimum score is 77. (Test is no longer offered)

• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English-Academic) LLU minimum score is 60

• iTEP Academic-Plus (International Test of English Proficiency, Academic-Plus) LLU minimum score is 3.5

Where to Send Documents

Address: 11139 Anderson St., Loma Linda, CA 92350

All documents must be sent directly from the issuing institution. Please reference llu.edu/apply for detailed information regarding transcripts. It is recommended that you obtain a tracking number for each document mailed or shipped.

For information on where to have your transcripts/mark sheets/degree certificate sent, please reference https://llu.edu/academics/how-apply

For documents which are sent electronically, please reference llu.edu/apply

ADAT, NBDHE, and NBDE Part 1 and Part II must be sent to admissions.app@llu.edu directly from the American Dental Association.

English proficiency requirements may be found here

Admissions Questions

Contact the admissions office with any questions you have about how to fill out the online application or about the application process:

School of Allied Health Professions: askalliedhealth@llu.edu
School of Behavioral Health: admissions.sbh@llu.edu
School of Dentistry: admissions.sd@llu.edu
School of Dentistry, Advanced Dental Education: advanceddentaledu@llu.edu
School of Nursing: admissions.sn@llu.edu
School of Medicine, MD: admissions.sm@llu.edu
School of Medicine, Basic Sciences: basicsciences@llu.edu
School of Pharmacy: admissions.sp@llu.edu
School of Public Health: admissions.sph@llu.edu
School of Religion: religion@llu.edu

Immigration Documents

Please submit your LLU application and supporting documents early. LLU must have time to process all necessary immigration documents and send them to you for your processing. Governmental papers take time. Please be sure to apply early and have your transcripts and evaluation sent early so we will have time to offer an acceptance and then follow the standard immigration procedures to get you here before your classes begin.

Immigration Questions

International Student Services
11139 Anderson St
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA 92350

Email: intlstdsrv@llu.edu
Phone: (909) 558-4955

Main Admissions Page