How to Apply to the TSU Intensive English Center

International Students & F-1 Visa Process - Our F-1 Visa Hub provides step-by-step guidance on eligibility, I-20 requests, and preparing for your arrival in Nashville. Click on the button below to access our dedicated information hub.

F-1 Student Visa Information Hub

 

Applying is a two-part process: Application and Enrollment. Please follow the steps below carefully:

1. IEC Application Steps (Required for All Students)

Follow these steps to submit your initial application and secure your spot.

Step Action Required Documents / Details
Step 1: Application Form Fill out and submit the online application form .

Make sure to have a copy of your photo ID, Passport, or U.S. Driver's License, and a high school diploma or other school certificate.

You must complete the application form.

If you don't have your high school diploma at hand, please email a copy to iec@tnstate.edu as soon as possible after applying.
Step 2: Pay Fee

Pay the $60 non-refundable application fee online.

This fee is required to process your application.

You only need to pay this fee once.
Step 3: Receive Acceptance Wait for your official Letter of Admission from the IEC. This confirms your application has been processed.

 

2. Special Requirements

Applying for an F-1 Student Visa

If you are an international student seeking an F-1 visa, you must submit the following documents in addition to the main application steps above:

  • Financial Documentation: A bank statement and an affidavit of support or financial guarantee from your sponsor.
  • Health Forms.
  • Beginning with Session 2026-4 (starting June 28, 2026), all prospective students requesting an I-20 form to schedule an F-1 visa appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate must submit an Initial Payment of $300.00. This payment will be credited toward the tuition for the student’s first academic session at the Intensive English Center.
  • If a student’s F-1 visa application is denied, the $300.00 initial payment may be refunded upon written request, provided that official documentation of the visa denial is submitted.
  • Refund requests will be processed after the student’s I-20 record has been officially cancelled in SEVIS. This policy applies to all new I-20 requests beginning with Session 2026-4.

After we receive these documents:

  • We will send you your official Form I-20 and Acceptance Letter.
  • You must then apply for your F-1 visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy and attend your visa interview.
  • Once your visa is approved, email us immediately to confirm your Placement Test appointment.

Applying for the In-State Tuition Discount (TN Residents)

Tennessee residents are eligible for a tuition discount. To qualify, you must provide proof of legal status and 12 months of residency.

Requirement Proof You Must Provide
U.S. Legal Status One of the following: U.S. Passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) with the I-797 Notice of Approval letter, OR Employee Authorization with I-797 Notice of Approval (Asylum or Refugee case).
TN Residency (Last 12 months) Two documents proving residency, such as bills, contracts, or bank statements.

Action: Please send all proof of your legal status and residency via email ONLY to: iec@tnstate.edu

 

3. Enrollment and Start of Classes

Once accepted and your visa (if applicable) is approved, these are the final steps before you start class.

Step Action Details
Step 1: Placement Test Take the mandatory IEC Placement Test to determine your English level.  
Step 2: Select Courses Check your email for your assigned English level and available courses. Email us back to tell us which courses you will take. F-1 and Full-Time students must take all classes at their assigned level.
Step 3: Confirmation You will receive a confirmation email with your weekly class schedule.  
Step 4: Payment Pay your tuition or send your financial guarantee. Late fees apply if payment is not received by the deadline.
Step 5: Orientation Attend the mandatory Orientation Session and Campus Tour. The session officially begins with the Orientation Session.
Step 6: Final Paperwork Fill out all required IEC forms and waivers.  
Step 7: Campus Access Get your TSU student ID card, parking permit, and other important instructions.  
Step 8: Start Class! Begin your Intensive English Center courses!  

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