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International Student FAQs

Find answers to the most common questions international students ask about studying at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½.

Academics

ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½’s two current master’s programs consist of 10 courses total. By taking two courses each eight-week term, students can complete their degree in just one calendar year.

International students pursuing a Master of Science in Business Analytics or Information Technology are expected to take two courses each eight-week term. One course is hybrid (online + one in-person residency weekend), and the other is fully virtual (online only).

Yes! The International Program Office conducts an online orientation before the beginning of every term. During orientation, you'll meet program staff and instructors, and receive an overview of your courses and residency expectations.

Residency weekends are held at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½’s San Antonio campus. Additional future sites include Irving, Texas (Dallas-Fort Worth area), and Phoenix, Arizona.

No, on-campus housing is not available for residencies. However, multiple nearby hotels offer special discounted rates for ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ students attending residency weekends.

ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ provides a wide range of academic, social, immigration, and spiritual support. Your instructors and your DSO (Designated School Official) should be your first contacts for help or guidance. They can assist you directly or connect you with the appropriate department.

Your academic advisor will guide you through your degree plan and answer any questions you have. You can contact the Graduate Office by emailing graduatestudies@wbu.edu.

Admissions

International students must meet specific requirements to be admitted to ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½. These requirements can vary slightly by program, so it's important to review the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ Admissions website for current deadlines and policies.

Minimum required documents include:

  • A completed application form
  • A copy of your current passport
  • Official transcripts from previous academic institutions (translated and evaluated if international)
  • Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo)
  • Financial documentation demonstrating your ability to pay for tuition and living expenses

If you have questions or need help during the application process, contact the admissions team at waylandadmissions@wbu.edu.

Billing

Program tuition and fees vary by degree and term. For the most current information on tuition, fees, and estimated cost of attendance, please visit the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ Cost of Attendance page.

There are two main ways for students to make payments through :

  • Option 1: Log in to and click the Meadow Pay chicklet. You’ll be redirected to Meadow Pay, where you’ll sign in using your @wayland.wbu.edu email account.
  • Option 2: Log in to , click the Student Services icon, go to the Finances menu, and select Online Payment (Meadow Pay).

If you need assistance, contact the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ Business Office at businessoffice@wbu.edu or call (806) 291-3445.

Yes. You may make partial payments throughout the term. However, your balance must be paid in full before you will be allowed to register for the next academic term.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an F-1 visa benefit that allows eligible international students to participate in employment or internships that are directly related to their field of study.

CPT is intended to enhance a student's academic program by providing practical work experience directly tied to their major. It must be based on defined academic objectives and approved on a term-by-term basis. CPT cannot be authorized after a student has graduated and is not meant for ongoing or indefinite employment.

To be eligible for CPT, students must:

  • Be in valid F-1 status
  • Be in good academic standing with ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½
  • Have an offer for employment or an internship directly related to their field of study
  • Have completed at least one full academic year of study

Yes. If you transferred your SEVIS record to ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½, your previous semesters of full-time study at another U.S. institution may count toward the one academic year requirement for CPT eligibility.

To qualify, the job must be:

  • Directly related to your field of study listed on your I-20
  • An integral part of your academic program
  • Approved with defined academic objectives in coordination with your course or program instructor

CPT can be either:

  • Part-time: Up to 20 hours per week (never to exceed 20)
  • Full-time: More than 20 hours per week (no set maximum)

If you complete 12 months of full-time CPT, you will no longer be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Part-time CPT does not affect your OPT eligibility, but heavy CPT usage may draw extra scrutiny in future visa or immigration applications. It’s a good idea to keep detailed records of your CPT-related coursework and approvals.

No. CPT is approved on a term-by-term basis. You must reapply for CPT each term that you wish to participate.

You must begin the CPT process by consulting your DSO (Designated School Official). The steps typically include:

  1. Complete the CPT application form
  2. Obtain a formal job or internship offer
  3. Have your employer verify your employment
  4. Once approved, your DSO will issue an updated I-20 with CPT authorization for the term

No. ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ does not currently offer Day 1 CPT. Students must be enrolled at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ and meet the eligibility requirements, including the completion of one academic year, before applying for CPT. However, once eligible, ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ will process your CPT application promptly.

Driver's License

Obtaining a U.S. driver’s license can be very helpful during your time as an international student. It serves as a valid form of identification, can be used to open bank accounts, purchase restricted items, and legally drive a vehicle.

General steps to get a driver's license:

  1. Take and pass a written test that includes multiple-choice questions about your state’s driving laws and road signs.
  2. Receive a temporary learner’s permit that allows you to legally practice driving with supervision.
  3. Schedule and pass a behind-the-wheel driving test within the timeframe provided by your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Important: Driver’s license requirements and procedures vary by state. Be sure to visit your state’s DMV website or local office to review specific requirements, acceptable documents, testing fees, and appointment availability.

English Proficiency

Yes, most international students must submit an official English language proficiency score to be considered for admission. However, some students may qualify for an exemption.

You are exempt from this requirement if:

  • You are a citizen of a country exempt under current U.S. government guidance.
  • You have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an institution in the U.S. or another qualifying English-speaking country.

Accepted English proficiency exams and minimum scores:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): 61
  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): 6.0
  • Duolingo English Test: 100
  • Pearson PTE: 50

Note: Test scores must be submitted directly from the testing agency to ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ Admissions. You can email the admissions team at waylandadmissions@wbu.edu if you have questions about accepted exams or score reports.

Financial Aid

Yes, ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ offers several institutional scholarships available to qualifying international students. One example is the Terra Scholarship, which supports eligible students with tuition assistance.

Students are encouraged to contact the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ Financial Aid Office for full details on current scholarship offerings and application requirements.

Important notes:

  • International students are not eligible for U.S. federal financial aid programs (such as FAFSA).
  • ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ currently does not offer financial assistance for graduate students enrolled in the UHUB program. UHUB students should check directly with their UHUB program office for funding options.

Health Issues

Yes, all ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ students are eligible for health services and may purchase student health insurance coverage. Access to health insurance is especially important for international students while studying in the U.S.

Services offered include:

  • Illness assessments with personalized self-care plans
  • First aid treatment
  • Injury assessments and physician referrals

ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½’s Health Services office is located on the second floor of the University Center, Suite 210, on the Plainview campus.

A registered nurse is available to help students access quality care and works in consultation with local physicians for referrals and specialized needs.

To learn more about available health services and student insurance options, visit the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ Health Services webpage.

Immigration Assistance

ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ provides immigration support through its Designated School Officials (DSOs), who help students navigate the legal requirements of maintaining F-1 student status.

Here’s how DSOs support you:

  • Help you obtain your Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
  • Interact with SEVP (Student Exchange and Visitor Program) on your behalf
  • Update your I-20 each term to reflect your status and enrollment at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½
  • Assist with travel endorsements and guidance for international travel
  • Support with CPT and OPT applications and questions

If you have any questions related to your visa, travel, or maintaining status, your DSO is your first and best resource.

Although your DSO can guide you through many aspects of maintaining your visa, it is your responsibility as a student to stay informed about U.S. immigration laws.

We highly recommend visiting the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s official site for international students:

This resource explains F-1 student rules, travel policies, employment eligibility, and more. Also, see the Visa section of this FAQ for specific visa-related questions.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. It provides hands-on experience in your field and can be used either before or after you complete your degree.

Key details:

  • Up to 12 months of OPT is available per degree level
  • OPT can be used before (pre-completion) or after (post-completion) graduation
  • Any time used for pre-completion OPT will reduce the amount available for post-completion OPT

Yes. Students who complete a qualifying STEM degree (like ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½’s master’s degrees in Business Analytics or Information Technology) may be eligible for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension, beyond the initial 12 months.

To apply for OPT, you must:

  1. Receive a recommendation from your DSO, who will endorse your Form I-20 and update your SEVIS record
  2. Submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to USCIS
  3. Include the required fee and all supporting documentation as outlined in the form instructions

It’s important to apply well in advance, as processing times may vary.

OPT is limited to one use per degree level. If you have already used OPT at the master's level, you are not eligible for another OPT period at the same level (even if it's a different program).

However, you would be eligible for a new OPT period if you pursue and complete a higher degree level, such as a doctoral program.

Social Security

A Social Security Number (SSN) is issued by the U.S. government and is primarily used for tax and employment reporting purposes. It is required for individuals who are legally employed in the United States.

The Social Security card is the official document showing your SSN and should be kept in a safe place.

You only need a Social Security Number if you plan to work while in the U.S. This includes on-campus jobs or authorized work through CPT or OPT.

To apply for a Social Security Number, you must provide proof of lawful F-1 employment authorization. This typically includes:

  • A valid I-20 endorsed for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or documentation of Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  • Evidence of current on-campus employment or a job offer

Once you have the necessary documents, you can apply at your local Social Security Administration office.

Transcripts

Yes, ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ requires official transcripts from all previous colleges and universities you have attended—both in the U.S. and internationally.

Note: Provisional admission may be granted for one academic term while transcripts are pending. However, official transcripts must be received before you can enroll in future terms.

Ways to submit U.S. transcripts:

  • Mail: ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½, Admissions Office, 1900 West 7th Street, CMB 1294, Plainview, TX 79072. Must be sealed by the institution.
  • Email: waylandadmissions@wbu.edu (must come directly from the institution)
  • Use to order and send transcripts electronically

For international transcripts:

You must use one of the following transcript evaluation services. These services will send the evaluated results directly to ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½.

  • International Education Evaluation (IEE) – Search for "ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½" on the IEE portal. If not found, use waylandadmissions@wbu.edu as the recipient email.
  • World Education Service (WES) – Send results to the attention of the Graduate Studies Program at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½.

Additional things to consider:

  • Transcripts will not be released if there are unresolved financial issues with your previous institution.
  • If you’ve been on academic probation or suspension in the last 5 years, you must include an explanatory letter.
  • Visit your institution's website for transcript request steps and any applicable fees.

Once received, your transcripts will be evaluated for both admission and possible transfer credit. You will be notified when the review is complete.

You can request official or unofficial transcripts through the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ website:

  • Visit the Student Services section in your myÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ portal and use the GRADES dropdown
  • Or go to www.wbu.eduRESOURCESTRANSCRIPTS

Official transcripts cost $5.00 each. Unofficial transcripts are free and available for personal use through the same portal.

Travel

Yes, international students may travel freely within the United States while enrolled at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½. However, you should always carry the following documents with you when traveling:

  • Your valid passport
  • Your F-1 visa
  • Your I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility)
  • Your I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record)

Yes, you may travel to and from your home country while enrolled, as long as your travel documents are valid and up to date. Before leaving the U.S., you must contact your Designated School Official (DSO) to request a travel endorsement on your I-20.

This endorsement is required for re-entry into the United States. Without it, you may not be permitted to return after travel.

If you plan to visit other countries outside of your home country, you must also review that country’s entry requirements in advance and confirm that you meet them.

Visa

Yes. All international students are required to have a U.S. visa. The most common visa for academic study is the F-1 Visa (Academic Student), which allows you to study full-time at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½.

After admission to ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½, a Designated School Official (DSO) will issue you a Form I-20, also known as the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." You will use this document to apply for an F-1 visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.

Once your visa is issued, you will use your passport, F-1 visa, and I-20 to enter the United States. Upon entry, you will also receive an I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record). You should carry all four of these documents with you at all times while in the U.S.

Yes. Only certain visa types allow for full-time academic study. Acceptable visa types include F-1, H-1B, M-1, and J-1. Visa types such as B-1 or B-2 do not permit full-time study.

You will not be permitted to enroll at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ until you have an appropriate visa. If you are already in the U.S. on a visa that does not permit study, your DSO can assist with the process of requesting a change of status to F-1.

If you already hold a valid visa, send a copy to your DSO. If you are currently studying at another institution under an F-1 visa, request a transfer of your SEVIS record to ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½.

If your visa is of another type (not F-1), your DSO can help initiate a change of status to F-1 when creating your new I-20.

F-1 students are required to maintain a valid passport at all times while in the United States. If your passport is set to expire, you do not need to leave the country to renew it if your home country has an embassy or consulate in the U.S.

Contact your country’s embassy or consulate for instructions on how to renew your passport while remaining in the United States.

Yes, you may remain in the U.S. with an expired visa as long as your I-20 is valid and you are maintaining your F-1 student status. However, if you plan to leave the country and return, you must renew your visa before re-entering the U.S.

Yes. Immediate family members (defined as your spouse and children) may join you in the U.S. on F-2 dependent visas. To initiate this process, provide your DSO with a copy of your dependents' passports so that an I-20 can be issued for each of them.

Yes. Other family members such as parents or siblings are welcome to visit you while you are studying in the U.S. They must apply for a B-2 (visitor) visa to enter the country legally.

Yes, you may travel freely within the U.S. while studying. Always carry your passport, visa, I-20, and I-94 when traveling domestically.

If you plan to travel internationally and return to the U.S., you must have a valid visa and obtain a travel endorsement on your I-20 from your DSO prior to departure. See the note above regarding expired visas and re-entry.

Work Opportunities

No. International students on an F-1 visa are not allowed to work in the U.S. unless the employment is officially authorized as part of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Working without proper authorization is considered one of the most serious violations of immigration regulations. If you engage in unauthorized employment:

  • Your SEVIS record will be terminated
  • You will lose your F-1 status without the possibility of reinstatement
  • You will be required to leave the United States immediately

For more information on approved employment, see the CPT and OPT sections of this FAQ.

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