Summer Challenge: Information for International Students

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to study at a world-renowned university in the United States with students from around the globe? Do you want to engage in new academic challenges and experience American culture in one of the most historic, exciting cities in the nation? Then come join us at Boston University!

International students must submit a copy of your current valid passport with your program application.

We strongly encourage international students to bring a mobile phone that operates in the United States.

English proficiency

English is the language of instruction at Boston University, and a high degree of competency is assumed. International students need to submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET). English proficiency exam scores are required for all international students unless English is your native language. You need to have a minimum English proficiency level equivalent to:

• 90–100 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT) with a minimum of 20 in each section
• 7 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• 125 on the Duolingo English Test (DET)

If you do not meet these requirements, you may want to consider the Gateway to the American University program, held at BU’s Center for English Language & Orientation Programs (CELOP). The program is designed for international students interested in applying to an American college or university. Find out more information on CELOP’s website.

Visa information for Summer Challenge students

Since Summer Challenge is a short-term noncredit program designed for high school students, it does not qualify for F-1 immigration student sponsorship. Therefore, international students are encouraged to enter the United States in a temporary visitor status that allows for participation in a short course of study for which no academic credit is granted. For citizens of countries requiring a visa to enter the US, participants should obtain a B-2 “Visitor for Pleasure” visa. Citizens of countries who enjoy the benefits of the Visa Waiver Program should obtain ESTA clearance and enter the US in WT, “Waiver Tourist,” status.

Immunizations

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires all full- and part-time international students attending in-person classes to submit proof of immunization against: measles, mumps, rubella (MMR); tetanus (Tdap); hepatitis B; meningitis; varicella; and tuberculosis testing (based on country of origin).

International students accepted into the program must submit their immunization record as part of the online Participation Agreement. Your doctor or healthcare provider must complete the Immunization Requirements Form. If that is not possible, they may instead provide equivalent signed documentation of your immunization record to show proof of all required immunizations and TB screening or TB test history. Students cannot attend the program without a valid MMR record showing two doses at least 28 days apart and after 12 months of age.

Students not in compliance with BU immunization requirements upon arrival have 7 days to obtain required vaccinations or will be considered noncompliant. Vaccinations can be scheduled in advance at Student Health Services.

Student Health Services

881 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 617-353-3575

Medical/health insurance

All students enrolled in the Summer Challenge program are required to have medical/health insurance. Since many US doctors and hospitals do not recognize out-of-country coverage, it is strongly recommended that international students participate in the Boston University Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP).

You are not automatically enrolled in SHIP upon registration and must enroll on your own. You may contact Student Financials at 617-353-2870 or email insmed@bu.edu in advance of your arrival for information on how to enroll in SHIP.

It is recommended that students seeking to enroll in SHIP send their request for SHIP coverage at least 3 weeks prior to their arrival.

To compare plan coverage, visit aetnastudenthealth.com/bu, select View your insurance plan details, then scroll down and review the 2025–2026 Plan Documents and Benefits. Summer 2026 is part of the 2025–26 Plan Year, which ends on August 14, 2026. (Students do NOT enroll themselves in SHIP at Aetna Student Health’s website.)

Contact us

If you have any additional questions or comments, please contact us.