International Student Admissions
Scholarships
International Students NOW can qualify for scholarships!
The following scholarships can be awarded to international students who transfer from other colleges or universities to Upper Iowa University and who meet admission and scholarship requirements:
$8,500 for students with a Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above- $6,500 for students with a Cumulative GPA of 2.0-2.99
- $3,000 for students with a Cumulative GPA of 2.0 & below
The following scholarships can be awarded to new (freshmen) international students who meet admission and scholarship requirements:
- $6,000 for students with either an ACT of 22 or above; SAT of 1020 or above
- $4,000 for students with either an ACT of 18 -21; SAT of 880-1010
- $2,500 for students with either an ACT of 16 or 17; SAT of 760-870 OR comparable evidence of high academic achievement in high school.
To be considered for admission, international students must follow the basic admission steps (except #3 ACT/SAT results), submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is required, submit a notarized statement showing financial support for colleges expenses in either the student’s name or an immediate family member, and pay ½ of the total tuition, room and board expenses for the first year of attendance. The I-20 form will be issued after the student has submitted all required materials and ½ of the total tuition, room and board for the first year of attendance. Transfer credit from non-U.S. institutions needs to be evaluated by an approved credit evaluation services at the expense of the student.
Answers to International Students Commonly Asked Questions
UIU has compiled a list of answers to common questions we hope will be helpful to you. For your convenience, the questions are divided into categories.
What is the admission process at Upper Iowa University?
All international students must first fill out an international student application form. Submit high school transcript(s), TOEFL score, and proof of financial responsibility (of student or parent)must be included. The entire application package should be sent to Upper Iowa University, Office of International Programs, 605 Washington Street, P.O. Box 1859, Fayette, IA 54142.
How can I check my admission status?
You can check your admission status via email (moreb@uiu.edu), fax (563.425.5833), or letter (605 Washington Street, P.O. Box 1859, Fayette, IA 52142).
When will you issue my I-20?
Upper Iowa University's Office of International Programs will issue each student an I-20 after a student has been accepted and made the required deposit.
Is financial assistance available for international students?
Please see scholarships information listed. International scholarships are renewable.
Does Upper Iowa University have student housing?
Yes, UIU provides three residence halls. Garbee Hall is the primary living area for residence hall students. For women, Lee Tower is the newest addition to residence life facilities. Lee Tower (for women)is comprised of 6 suites with 2 suites per floor. Hofmaster Apartments, (for men)is made up of 6 apartments with 2 apartments per floor.
What type of U.S. visa should I obtain to study at Upper Iowa?
International students should obtain and enter the United States with an F-1 visa.
What is the SEVIS fee for F-1 applicants?
The I-901 fee of $200 (as of 2009) has been implemented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This fee must be paid and fully processed prior to your visa interview.
What are some tips when traveling to the U.S.?
Hand carry (do not check) the following items: passport, I-20, evidence of financial resources, tuition receipts, transcripts, or letter of acceptance, paper receipt for the SEVIS fee, the name and contact information of your designated school official.
Inform the DHS Officer at the port of entry as soon as possible that you will be a new or returning student in the United States.
Report to Upper Iowa University upon arrival so that your school official can validate your participation in SEVIS.
When should I arrive at UIU?
We recommend that you arrive at least 2-3 days prior to the start of orientation so that you can rest and recover from travel fatigue. Student must be present for ALL orientation sessions.
Where is the nearest Airport?
The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) in Cedar Rapids (319-362-8336). Only students that arrive at CID will be picked up by UIU transport.
Will someone meet me at the Airport?
Yes, this must be coordinated with Brian More (moreb@uiu.edu) or Kit Klepinger (klepingerk@uiu.edu) at least one month in advance. We will run two shuttles per day from CID, usually around 3pm and 10 or 11pm although these times may change depending on students' flight. Please understand that you might have to wait at the airport for a couple hours to be met by the UIU shuttle.
Can you give me directions to get to Upper Iowa University?
Please refer to this UIU map.
Is Orientation mandatory for new international students?
Yes, the international student orientation, advising, and registration days are required for all newly admitted UIU international students. The days consist of check-in at the residence halls (if applicable), a trip to the bank (if applicable), testing, general information session, validation process, visit student services (student ID's, mailbox key, and forms), academic advising session, registration, campus tour, town tour, and discussion about the required health insurance. You must bring your passport and I-20 to orientation sessions and present them to the Office of International Programs in order to become a registered student in the SEVIS system (failure to do so will cause a students' I-20 to be terminated).
