International | Admissions

International Students

Interested in Attending TSU?

Welcome to our vibrant community! We’re thrilled to have you join us from all corners of the globe. This is a place where diverse cultures and perspectives come together, creating a rich tapestry of experiences and ideas. As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that you are not just here to study, but to explore, connect, and grow. Embrace the opportunities to learn from one another, make lasting friendships, and immerse yourself in new experiences. If you have questions or need assistance, our faculty, staff, and fellow students are here to support you every step of the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions@tnstate.edu! 

Definition of  International Applicant

Students are classified as international applicants if they are non-U.S. citizens and do not hold a U.S. Permanent Resident visa. Citizenship type is determined during the application process. Please note that students with dual citizenship in the U.S. and another country may apply as U.S. citizens.

Application Deadlines

Application Deadlines for Students Currently in the United States

• Spring Semester:
  • Application Deadline: December 1
  • All supplemental documents (official transcripts, test scores, application fees, etc.) must be received by December 15 to be considered for admission.
• Summer Semester: (For transfer students only)
  • Application Deadline: May 1
  • All supplemental documents must be received by May 15 to be considered for admission.
• Fall Semester:
  • Application Deadline: July 1
  • All supplemental documents must be received by August 1 to be considered for admission.

Please ensure that all required documents are submitted by the specified deadlines to facilitate a smooth admissions process.

Application Deadlines for Students Currently Overseas

• Spring Semester:
  • Application Deadline: November 1
  • All supplemental documents must be received by December 1 to be considered for admission.
• Summer Semester: (For transfer students only)
  • Application Deadline: April 1
  • All supplemental documents must be received by May 1 to be considered for admission.
• Fall Semester:
  • Application Deadline: June 1
  • All supplemental documents must be received by July 1 to be considered for admission.

It is essential to submit all required documents by specified deadlines to ensure your application is processed on time.

International Admissions Requirements

To complete your application for International Admissions, please submit the following documents before the deadline for the upcoming semester:

Step One

Apply for Admissions via the Future Tiger Portal. There is an application fee of $25.00 which is payable with a debit/credit card or bank account.

Step Two

Submit Documents for Admissions.

Freshman Applicants 

• High school transcript
• HiSET or GED transcript, if applicable
• Students under 21 years old must submit ACT/SAT scores
• An international transcript evaluation is required for any high school attended outside of the United States. WES and The Evaluation Company/SpanTran are recommended providers

Transfer Applicants

• Submit official transcripts from each college or university you have previously attended
• Official transcripts from colleges and universities within the United States can be submitted through approved electronic services, including Clearinghouse, Parchment, Naviance, eSCRIP-SAFE, or JST.
• International transcripts must be accompanied by an official course-by-course evaluation completed at the student’s expense. Tennessee State University accepts evaluations from the following credential evaluation agencies approved by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES):
• World Education Services (WES)
• Josef Silny & Associates, International Education Consultants
• The Evaluation Company (Formally SpanTran) (TSU-contracted provider with a discounted rate)
• Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
• Academic Evaluation Services (AES)
• International Education Evaluations (IEE)

Step Three

English Proficiency Requirements

Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by meeting one of the following requirements:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 61
• IELTS: Minimum overall score of 5.0
• Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 75
• 12 hours of U.S. college or university credit: Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
• Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum score of 50
• Successful completion of Tennessee State University’s Intensive English Program Level 7

Important: Please do not submit documents via email to the Office of Admissions and note that Tennessee State University does not offer coupons or discount codes for testing.

Step Four

After all required documents have been received, check your Future Tiger Portal and email for updates. After an admission decision has been made, students will begin communication with the Office of International Affairs (oia@tnstate.edu) regarding the submission of additional documentation.

Step Five

Passport.

• Passport Identification Page.
• F1 visa and I-20 (Transfer students already in the United States).
• Students already in the USA, who have a student visa, must provide scan copies of their current passport, I-20, I-94, and current student visa.

Step Six

Bank Documents for a visa.

• Submit adequate evidence of financial support (or affidavits) to cover the cost of attendance for at least one full year of studies at TSU before the Certificate of Acceptance (called the I-20) can be mailed by OIA (Office of International Affairs). These documents must be dated within six months of the desired semester of enrollment and notarized
• Students requesting an I-20 are required by Federal law to submit financial verification to be issued the documents. Students will need to contact oia@tnstate.edu for the estimated amount required for issuance of the I-20/DS-2019.

Step Seven

Submit Health Forms to studenthealthservices@tnstate.edu.

• Immunization Health History (MMR1/2, CP1/2).
• Must have Meningitis/Hepatitis.
• Tuberculosis