International Students

International students who have accepted the offer of admissions need to obtain the appropriate immigration document (I-20 or DS-2019 form) from Boston University.  The immigration document will enable you to apply for a visa, if necessary.  Canadian citizens must obtain the I-20 document, but Canadians do not need a visa to study in the United States.

Starting in December or January, Admissions contacts entering international students with instructions to upload PDF scans of required documentation through the Boston University Applicant Gateway.  Complete your materials submission as early as possible to ensure timely processing of your immigration document so you will have ample time to apply for your visa.

The GSDM Admissions Manager reviews submitted materials and releases the completed file to the Boston University International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO).  The International Students and Scholars Office cannot access entering student documents until Admissions releases the record.  The ISSO starts processing GSDM student documents in February.  After approval by the ISSO, the appropriate document is produced, typically within about 10 business days (2 weeks).

Required Documents for International Students

Refer to the Boston University International Students and Scholars (ISSO) Documents and Procedures page for current forms and instructions.

  • International Student Data Form (ISDF)
    • If you indicate an international mailing address on your ISDF, GSDM Admissions will provide the ISSO with a FedEx shipping label for delivery of your immigration document.
  • Passport photo page with your official name and the passport expiration date
  • Prior immigration documents, if relevant (e.g., I20s, visas, U.S. entry stamps, I-94)
  • Financial documentation
    • The ISSO Estimate of Expenses for GSDM programs is based on tuition and fees for the academic year prior to enrollment, so actual tuition and fees assessed through your Boston University student account may be approximately 3 – 5% more than the amount stated in the ISSO Estimate of Expenses and your immigration documents. Instrument costs and certain other significant fees are not included in the ISSO Estimate of Expenses.
  • Financial Sponsorship Certification Form if relevant

U.S. Permanent Residents

If you have U.S. Permanent Residency status, do not submit an International Student Data Form, passport copies, immigration paperwork or financial documentation. U.S. Permanent Residents should submit a scan of both sides of your Alien Registration Receipt Card (“green card”) to GSDM Admissions.