International Applicants Guide to SPU 2027

Seattle Pacific University (SPU) welcomes students from around the world. If you are a non-immigrant who needs a temporary U.S. visa, typically an F-1 student visa, this guide is for you. It provides key information for international applicants planning to study at SPU in 2027.

Applying to SPU

International applicants have two main ways to apply:

• The SPU Application
• The Common Application

An application fee waiver is available for international applicants. SPU does not require international students to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, sending these scores can strengthen your application and might even waive English proficiency requirements.

For transcripts, first-year applicants must submit official transcripts from each high school or secondary school attended. Transfer or post-baccalaureate applicants need official transcripts from all colleges or universities they have attended. All transcripts and diplomas must be in English or come with an official translation.

English Language Proficiency

All non-native English speakers must show proof of English proficiency. This is required even if you have studied English before. Accepted tests include:

• TOEFL
• IELTS
• PTE Academic
• EIKEN (for native Japanese speakers applying for undergraduate programs)

For graduate programs, TOEFL is accepted, and some programs also accept IELTS and the Duolingo English Test.

You might be exempt from English proficiency testing if your primary and secondary education took place in specific English-speaking countries. These include Australia, Canada (outside Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, or the U.S. (outside Puerto Rico).

SPU may offer conditional admission if you meet academic standards but need to fulfill the English proficiency requirement later. This can often be done through a partner language school like ALPS.

Credential Evaluation for Non-U.S. Degrees

If you are looking to transfer credits from an undergraduate degree earned outside the U.S., an official course-by-course credential evaluation is required. This evaluation should come from a NACES or AICE member service, such as World Education Services (WES) or Foundation for International Services (FIS).

For graduate degrees, an official course-by-course evaluation must be submitted from a NACES member-recognized service.

Financial Aid and Documentation

Federal financial assistance in the U.S. is only available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. However, international students are eligible for SPU merit scholarships.

You must provide financial documentation to show you have enough funds for your first year of study. This typically includes the Declaration of International Student Finances form and official bank statements.

Visa Requirements and Arrival

F-1 Student Visa

As an international student, you will need a temporary U.S. visa, most commonly an F-1 student visa. When you travel to the U.S., you must carry several important documents:

• Your I-20 form
• A valid passport (with at least six months validity beyond your planned stay)
• Your U.S. visa
• A copy of your financial documents
• Your SEVIS 901 fee receipt

Maintaining Your Status

F-1 visa holders must maintain full-time enrollment. This means undergraduate students need a minimum of 12 credits per quarter, and graduate students need a minimum of 6 credits per quarter.

Health Requirements

International students are also required to meet health registration requirements. This involves submitting your medical history and vaccination records.

International Student Orientation

New F-1 international students must attend International Student Orientation when they arrive in the U.S.

Application Quarters and Resources

New international students can apply for admission to begin in the Autumn, Winter, or Spring quarters. It is not possible to start in the Summer quarter.

You can find more detailed information and academic programs in the SPU Academic Catalog for the 2026-2027 edition.

Preparing thoroughly for your application to Seattle Pacific University as an international student is essential. By understanding the requirements for admission, English proficiency, credential evaluation, financial planning, and visa procedures, you can ensure a smooth application process for 2027.