The resources and guides on this page will give you an outline of what to expect from applying to one of our programs up until beginning your first term of your program. 

Applying to a Program

All applicants, domestic and international, go through the same application process, with some exceptions based on prior complete studies. Prospective students can find a program that best fits their educational goals. Visit our International Academic Transcripts page for instructions on how to properly submit international transcripts with your application.

On-campus Programs

Once you apply and are accepted into a program, our office will contact you with the next steps to confirm your immigration status prior to matriculation. Based on your status (or desired status), you will be required to provide the following:

F-1 Visa**: Completed Form I-20 Request Form, copy of valid passport and valid F-1 visa* (for transfers only), proof of funding, receipt of advanced payment/deposit, and other relevant documentation from USCIS.

J-1 Visa**: Completed Form DS-2019 Request Form, copy of valid passport and J-1 visa* (for transfers only), admissions letter confirming funding provided by department, and other relevant documentation from USCIS.

Other Immigrant/Nonimmigrant Visa:  Copy of valid passport and immigrant/nonimmigrant visa*, most recent I-94, and other relevant documentation from USCIS.

Permanent Resident: Copy of valid passport and valid permanent resident (front and back); if expired, a copy of a letter from USCIS with granted extension, other relevant documentation from USCIS

Asylee: Copy of valid passport, Employment Authorization Document (if applicable), other relevant documentation from USCIS.

Pending Status: Copy of valid passport, I-797C Notice of Action, documentation to support current status in the U.S., other relevant documentation from USCIS.

Other Status in the U.S.: Copy of valid government identification (i.e., passport, driver’s license, etc.), other relevant documentation from USCIS.

*Citizens from Canada and Bermuda are not required to obtain a nonimmigrant visa from the U.S. Embassy/Consulate.

**For prospective F-1/J-1 Students:

  • Instructions on how to upload the required documentation for the Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 will be provided via LLU email. Do not submit documentation via LLU email.
  • The Form I-20/DS-2019 will be emailed to your LLU email once the P/DSO has reviewed your file.
  • Further instructions will be emailed to you with your Form, including what to do after you obtain the nonimmigrant visa, how to schedule your check-in appointment with ISSS, and how to complete registration for your first term.

Online Programs

If a prospective student will reside in the U.S. as a non-U.S. citizen while enrolled in an online/hybrid program, the prospective student is responsible for confirming if they reside in an authorized state or territory for online education and if there are any limitations to enrolling in an academic program based on their status in the U.S.

If a prospective student will reside outside of the U.S. while enrolled in an online/hybrid program, there are no limitations to matriculation based on residence and immigrant status.