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Frequently asked questions

Application process
Admitted students

Application process

Am I an international student?

Only non-immigrant visa holders (and Pending Permanent Residents) should submit the international admission application. U.S. citizens and Permanent Residents (green card holders) should apply through the domestic admissions office.

Where do I send my application and correspondence?

Old Dominion University
Office of International Admissions
129 Koch Hall
Norfolk, VA 23529 USA

When are the application deadlines?

Application deadlines
Fall (August) Priority	February 15
Fall (August) Final	April 15
Spring (January)	October 1
Summer (May)	February 1

How do I apply?

Applicants may apply either online or by the paper based application.

How much is the application fee?

The $50 (USD) application fee is required of all applicants. The application fee for the Master's of Business Administration (MBA) is $75 (USD). International checks, bank drafts or money orders must be drawn from a U.S. banking institution, and made payable in U.S. dollars to Old Dominion University. Applicants applying online may use MasterCard or Visa.

What are ODU's tuition rates?

Tuition, fees, housing rates, and cost estimates for I-20/DS-2019 issuance are available on the tuition rates page.

Am I eligible for in-state tuition rates?

Students studying on F-1 or J-1 student visas are not eligible; however, other non-immigrant categories may apply by submitting the application for in-state tuition.

Can I visit the main Norfolk campus?

Yes, guided campus tours are available on a daily basis. Reserve your space online or call the Welcome Center at +1 757-683-5678.

How long is the entire application process?

Processing a complete undergraduate application requires 4-6 weeks; complete graduate applications take 8-10 weeks. Please be mindful that evaluation times may vary during the peak application season.

How do I check the status of my application?

Tracking the progress of your application is available through LEO Online using your 8-digit UIN, or University Identification Number, which you will receive during the application process. Use your UIN in ALL correspondence with the University. Note the initial online application confirmation number is not your UIN.

Can I receive a conditional admission?

ODU does offer conditional admission pending English proficiency only. Admitted students who have not satisfied the English language requirement are automatically restricted to intensive English course enrollment at the on-campus English Language Center.

What are the requirements for Undergraduate admission?

Review the Undergraduate application checklist.

Are any scholarships available to international Undergraduate students?

Yes, Old Dominion University offers a competitive, merit based, renewable scholarship for newly admitted international undergraduate students. Award amounts range from $4,000 to $8,000 per year.

Can international students receive transfer credit?

The Office of International Admissions awards general education and elective undergraduate course credit from classes taken at accredited post secondary institutions. Core departmental course credit is awarded by academic advisors within your college. Course/catalog descriptions officially translated into English will expedite the evaluation process. AP and IB credits are awarded once the official scores are received. Check the University Catalog for further information regarding undergraduate general education requirements.

Is the SAT or ACT required?

No, neither the SAT nor ACT standardized test is required for international undergraduate admission. Either test is recommended if applying for the ISS scholarship.

What are the requirements for Graduate admission?

Review the Graduate application checklist.

Is departmental financial aid available to international graduate students?

Yes. Contact the Graduate Program Director of your intended program of study for research or teaching assistantship opportunities.

Is my degree equivalent to a U.S. Bachelor’s degree?

Applicants are encouraged to apply to the academic level for which they think they qualify. Degree determination is a component of the application process, and notification is given if a different level of study is more appropriate.

Can I receive transfer credit for graduate courses?

All graduate level transfer credit is determined by the Graduate Program Director.

Does ODU accept credential evaluations from agencies?

Old Dominion University evaluates all foreign credentials in-house. Evaluations completed by a credential evaluation agency or service are not accepted as official, however the report can serve as an English translation. All academic credentials must be sealed, stamped/attested by a school official (Registrar, Principal or Controller of Exams) and sent directly from the institution.

What is ODU’s CEEB code for test reporting?

The College Examination Entrance Board (CEEB) code for all standardized test reporting to ODU is 005126.

How do I apply for Non-Degree studies?

Applicants for non-degree study must submit the paper application and application fee directly to International Admissions. Please note, students holding an F-1 visa generally cannot study in non-degree or incidental status. A complete non-degree application includes copies of final certificates, diplomas or degrees, one’s visa stamp and demonstrated English proficiency.

Can I apply to an ODU Distance Learning site?

Most non-immigrant visas allow participation in Distance Learning programs, with the exception of students holding an F-1 or J-1 student visa, who must attend classes on the main Norfolk campus. However, F-1/J-1 visa regulations allow one on-line class per semester.

Does ODU participate in exchange or study abroad agreements?

Those interested in yearly exchange programs should contact the Office of Study Abroad for a list of institutions with which ODU currently administers exchange agreements. Current international students are also eligible to participate in the University’s Study Abroad programs.

Does ODU host J visa scholars?

Many international visitors join ODU as researchers and faculty on a J visa scholar program administered by the Department of State. Please direct application inquires to the office of International Student & Scholars Services.

Can I defer my admission or application?

International students are eligible to defer their admission or application for up to one academic year. Requests beyond this allotted time will require the student to re-apply with transcripts and application fee. Students in F/J status must submit updated financial documents, and return all unused I-20 or DS-2019 forms to International Admissions.

How do I re-activate my admission?

Students in good academic standing who wish to return to active enrollment should complete and submit a new international undergraduate or graduate application (no fee required), in additional to any additional academic course work completed in the interim period to International Admissions. Graduate students need written approval to re-enter their program from the Graduate Program Director. Students in F/J status must submit updated financial documents.

How do I return to ODU from an academic suspension?

Undergraduate students must contact the Office of Continuance to initiate the re-admission process. Graduate students contact the Office of Graduate Studies. Once re-admission is approved, submit the respective international application (no fee) to International Admissions. Students in F/J status must submit updated financial documents.

Do any non-immigrant visas restrict study in the U.S.?

USCIS regulations state that principles in visa categories E, H, I, O, P & TN may attend classes that are casual or incidental to their status, and should not be degree seeking students. However, dependents of individuals in these visa categories may be degree seeking. Pending Permanent Residents must present their I-485 receipt or Green Card before enrollment; asylum seekers their asylum petition or approval notice. Old Dominion University cannot be responsible for tuition or fee refunds in the event of a negative immigration petition.

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Admitted students

I’m admitted to ODU, what now?

Congratulations! Be sure to thoroughly read ALL materials included with your admission package, as many forms and procedures state strict deadlines. Don’t delay – planning ahead will help to ensure a smooth transition to Old Dominion University. We look forward to your safe arrival!

What student visa should I apply for?

ODU is approved to administer both F-1 student and J-1 student and exchange visitor programs. With sufficient proof of funding, the University will issue either an I-20 or DS-2019 visa document, for which the student will apply for the appropriate non-immigrant visa.

F-1: The most common student visa, for those seeking a full course of study.

J-1: Those participating in an educational or cultural exchange program.

What are the requirements for obtaining an I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) visa document?

Those seeking an F-1 or J-1 visa must submit original supporting finances, including ODU’s financial affidavit and supporting bank statement, or an official letter of financial support from a sponsoring or governmental agency. These financial documents must indicate sufficient funding for first year expenses, which includes tuition/fees, living/personal costs and mandatory health insurance. Financial documents are valid for one calendar year from the desired date or enrollment; all must be original or certified, dated, and show the equivalent numerical balance of funds to cover the 9 month academic year. Be prepared to obtain two original sets of bank statements, one for ODU, the other for the visa interview and travel.

Can my dependents (spouse or children) accompany me to the U.S.?

Yes. Each family member in F-2 or J-2 status will require an I-20 or DS-2019. Please note that additional funding is required for each dependent, and any sponsorship funding must be noted and adjusted accordingly. To ensure accuracy, submit a copy of each dependent’s passport information page.

What is ODU’s code for the SEVIS I-901 fee?

Review SEVIS fee details.

Important codes
ODU SEVIS code for I-20 issuance	WAS214F10145000
ODU program code for DS-2019 issuance	P103464

When can I enter the U.S. on an F-1 or J-1 visa?

An F-1 visa can be issued up to 120 days prior to the program start date (line 5) listed on an I-20. A J-1 visa can be issued any time before the program start date (line 3) listed on a DS-2019. F/J student visa holders are eligible to enter the U.S. no more than 30 days in advance of the program start date. Be sure your passport is valid at least six months beyond the date of your expected duration of stay in the United States.

Can I register for courses before arrival on-campus?

No, all new international students (undergraduate and graduate) must first check-in on campus before course registration can proceed. Be sure to review the semester important dates.

Will someone assist me with temporary housing?

The Office of Intercultural Relations (OIR) will do it’s best to accommodate timely requests for arrival assistance from the Norfolk International Airport and temporary housing. Be sure to submit the online request form.

I'm admitted with a full-time English requirement, where do I check-in?

Students admitted on the condition of full-time, or intensive English course enrollment, must report directly to the on-campus English Language Center. Contact the ELC directly for arrival assistance, temporary housing and institutional TOEFL dates and times.

Do citizens of Canada or Bermuda need a visa to enter the U.S. to study?

No, but an I-20 or DS-2019 visa document is required, in addition to proof of identity and citizenship.

How do I transfer-in my SEVIS record from another U.S. institution?

After admission to ODU, request your current international student advisor determine a mutually agreed release date for your electronic SEVIS record to be transferred to ODU. In addition, have your previous institution complete and send the SEVIS Transfer-In Form to International Admissions. With sufficient proof of financial support, a new I-20 or DS-2019 will be issued.

Is attendance required at the new student orientation?

Yes, attendance at the international orientation is mandatory for all new international students. Failure to attend will affect course registration in future semesters. Undergraduate freshman and transfer students are also required to attend the University’s orientation program, PREVIEW. Recipients of graduate teaching assistantships must attend the Graduate Teaching Association Institute’s (GTAI) orientation.

How do I change my visa status?

If you wish to change your current non-immigrant visa to a student visa, be sure to indicate this intention on the admission application and financial affidavit of support. After admission is secured, follow the change of visa status instructions.

Do I need to purchase health insurance?

F and J visa holders with a visa document from ODU and their dependents are required to maintain continuous health insurance year round. Students can purchase coverage for one year or in two pieces (August-December and January-July). The cost for this is about $1000 per year for students and dependents are an additional cost of approximately $2,400 per year or higher (based on the number of dependents). These costs are subject to change. Health insurance costs are not included in the tuition and must be paid for separately. ISSS can provide assistance with helping you purchase the coverage and can answer any general questions. DO NOT PURCHASE INSURANCE IN YOUR HOME COUNTRY AND EXPECT TO USE IT HERE AS IT WILL STILL BE NECESSARY TO BUY THE PLAN HERE.

Can I work on campus?

Students in F-1 status can work on-campus 20 hours per week while school is in session, 40 hours while not in session. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) internship opportunities are also available.

How do I pay my tuition and fees?

The tuition costs listed on your visa document are estimates (in U.S. dollars) for the nine month academic year, or two semesters. Summer costs are not included. Tuition and fee payments are paid on strict deadlines each semester after course registration is complete. Plan to have enough money for the initial semester in a readily exchangeable form upon arrival. Note that international money transfers may require special forms, permissions and or fees from your sponsor’s bank, and may take several weeks. Traveler’s checks, MasterCard and Visa may also be used for payment. Do not carry large amounts of cash.

Are payment plans available?

Yes, ODU offers a payment plan through which tuition, fees and on-campus housing costs may be paid in 4 installments.

How many international student organizations exist?

There are over 200 student organizations at ODU, many with a distinct focus for international students.