The University of Sioux Falls welcomes international students and recognizes you as vital members of our community. In fact, we are offering international students a $12,000 scholarship for fall 2012 and spring 2013 ($6,000 each semester).

To learn more about USF and our mission to foster academic excellence and the development of mature Christian persons for service to God and humankind in the world, watch our Virtual Tour.

As an international student, you’ll enjoy living and studying in the progressive, safe community of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Read about Sioux Falls here and visit our Campus Security Office.

View our International Student Brochure.

Application Checklist

• Complete a New Student Application.
• After you’ve completed your application, the Admissions Office will forward you an Application Addendum which requests your financial statements. This addendum confirms that you have the financial means to support your attendance at USF for one year. All supporting documents must be in English and notarized.
• If your native language is not English, you must submit a TOEFL score or an IELTS score as part of your application. You may choose to submit either test. If you are transferring from an accredited United States university, you may not be required to submit a TOEFL or IELTS score. We require a minimum TOEFL score of 537 paper (203 computer, 75 internet-based) or equivalent score on the IELTS test of 6. Our TOEFL number is 6651-00. To register for the TOEFL exam, please refer to www.ets.org/toefl. To register for the IELTS exam, please refer to www.ielts.org.
• Forward us your secondary and post-secondary transcripts. All transcripts must be in English and notarized by school officials. Your transcripts will also need to be processed through World Education Services, and you will need to order a course-by-course report.
• After being accepted to the University of Sioux Falls, the Admissions Office will issue you an I-20 Form. This form is necessary for you to apply for a Visa to study in the United States.
• As an international student, the complete list of documents you will need to acquire before enrolling in classes at USF is as follows: passport and attached I-94, Visa (F1 status), I-20 and health insurance card from your home country.

International Student Orientation

Shortly after you arrive at the University of Sioux Falls, you will participate in a two-day orientation.  The orientation dates for the fall 2012 semester are September 3 and 4.

During the orientation you will do the following:

• Take a campus tour
• Locate your classrooms
• Learn about USF services
• Visit the Campus Security office
• Receive information regarding medical care
• Receive your USF identification card
• Register for classes
• Validate your schedule
• Receive and verify your meal plan
• Visit the bookstore
• Establish a USF email account
• Visit the bank to establish personal accounts
• Acquire a cell phone (optional)
• Learn to use the public transit system
• Shop for basic supplies
• Learn about U.S. culture

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I arrive in Sioux Falls?

You should plan to arrive in Sioux Falls the day before the international student orientation. You will be informed of the orientation dates well in advance.

Will someone pick me up at the Sioux Falls airport?

Yes. You should send your arrival date, time, airline and flight number to the Director of International Education at randy.nelson@usiouxfalls.edu at least two weeks before the semester begins.

Am I required to purchase USF health insurance?

If you have health insurance from your home country, you are not required to purchase USF health insurance. You will need to have your health insurance identification card from your home country to verify your health coverage.Athletes may wish to purchase the USF health insurance and the athletics supplement insurance.

Will I have a roommate?

You may have a roommate, depending on the number of available dormitory rooms. If you prefer a single room, please contact the Director of International Education with your request. USF will try to honor your request.

What should I do if I need help with my academic work?

The Academic Success Center is available to help you secure a tutor. You may also visit the Writing Center or the Math Center for assistance in those subjects.

Is it possible to change my courses after I have registered?

Yes. Sometimes students need to drop or add a course. You may do so during the early part of the semester.Note: Each semester there is a final date to drop and add courses. After that date you will not be permitted to make schedule changes.

What should I do if I am having a problem?

Your well-being is very important to us. If you are having a problem of any kind, you should feel free to contact the Director of International Education. The director will help you find the right people to resolve your problem.

Which visa do I need?

Degree-seeking international students need an F1 visa.

Will I need to bring a computer?

Most students bring a computer with them. If you choose not to bring a computer, you are welcome to use the computers in the labs across campus. Please remember to purchase a voltage converter for your specific electronic device.

Will I need to bring sheets, blankets, and a pillow?

If possible, you should bring these items with you. If you cannot, we will lend you these items until you are able to shop. Please contact the Director of International Education if you will need to borrow sheets, a blanket, and a pillow.

What other supplies should I bring?

Students are advised to bring soap, shampoo, a towel, a dictionary, photographs from home, and other personal supplies.

What should I not bring?

Students should not bring local foods and plants. Fruits, vegetables, meats, and many other locally grown items are prohibited by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Will my electrical devices work in the United States?

If you are going to bring devices such as a hair dryer or curling iron from your home country, you should purchase a voltage converter and plug adapter. It may be simpler to purchase the electrical device you need once you arrive in Sioux Falls.

Who should I contact if I have other questions?

You should contact the Director of International Education at randy.nelson@usiouxfalls.edu.