
International Student Resources and Experience
journey today.

Are you an international student studying or preparing to study in the USA? Navigating the intricacies of studying and living in a foreign country can be overwhelming. Here are some frequently asked questions that may address common concerns and provide helpful information if you’re looking for colleges for international students who wish to study in the USA.
Why do international students choose to study in the US?
Where can international students work to make money in the US?
How do I qualify as an international student at GCU?
How do I apply for scholarships as an international student in the USA?
Can international students apply for FAFSA?

Get ready to embrace the challenges and triumphs of studying abroad and gain life experiences as an international student at GCU. Take the first step toward becoming an international student in the U.S.
To minimize debt, and graduate with the least amount of debt possible, GCU encourages students to accept the most beneficial sources of financial assistance first, such as scholarships, grants, work-study (if eligible), student worker positions, and GCU’s interest-free payment plan options. Compare the terms of federal loans before applying for private loans. Please review the terms and conditions of student loans, including grace periods and payment plan options.
The United States has the world's largest international student population.(See disclaimer 1) Over one million students have chosen to further their education and life experience at a U.S. college or university.(See disclaimer 2) Grand Canyon University has grown with Phoenix to become one of the nation's premier private universities.
We understand adjusting to a new culture, language and academic system can be emotionally challenging for international students. Therefore, GCU is prepared to walk side-by-side with you as you overcome possible cultural shock, manage new expectations and find your sense of belonging, all of which can impact your emotional well-being.
Arizona is positioned among the leading 20 university locations preferred by international students.(See disclaimer 3)
GCU has been embracing different cultures for over 70 years. We encourage and motivate our students to share their individual perspectives, so they can become global contributors. GCU international students come from many countries such as Nigeria, Canada, India, Turkey, Australia, China, Spain, Taiwan, Japan, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom and Vietnam.(See disclaimer 1) The college is allowed by federal law to accept nonimmigrant students with an F-1 Student Visa.
An analysis of student visa data indicates that 1,159,798 international students were studying at American colleges and universities in 2020.(See disclaimer 1) Studying abroad is a great way to expand your horizons and gain life experiences. GCU offers an international student program that can help you achieve these goals.
GCU offers full-time F-1 Visa student options. Our International Student Office and university counselors can help guide you through the enrollment process. Here is some helpful information:
Obtain Your Student Visa
Port of Entry
F-1 Transfer Students
Tuition and Financing
As an international student planning to study in the USA, it’s important to familiarize yourself with specific health and safety requirements that will assist you in maintaining good health during your academic journey.
Understanding health requirements and reviewing health-related considerations as an international student is an essential part of the admission process.
Admission Requirements
Health Requirements
As you embark on this exciting journey, GCU is committed to providing you with a personalized and inclusive educational experience that caters to your unique needs and aspirations. From fostering meaningful connections with fellow students from around the world to empowering you to explore new cultures and broaden your horizons, our program is dedicated to nurturing your academic, cultural and personal growth.
International Student Scholarship Opportunities
Housing for International Students
Student Work Opportunities
Multicultural Clubs and Events
As part of our initiative to academically prepare global contributors, GCU invites qualified students, who have completed their prior education outside of the U.S., to apply to GCU. When you enroll, you join our community of students who value relevant degree programs that emphasize Christian ethics.
If you have completed secondary school, or if you have attended college, university or technical school outside the U.S. or U.S. protectorate (Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Northern Marianas Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia), you may be qualified to attend GCU as a student with foreign credentials.
GCU serves thousands of students from numerous countries in a variety of degree programs. To serve them, we have student services counselors dedicated to understanding the needs of students with foreign credentials, as well as pre-established services to ensure that all non-U.S. students’ past educational experiences integrate into our academic environment.
Foreign Credentials Services of America (FCSA)
Foreign Credentials Services of America (FCSA) performs professional evaluations to determine if students’ educational experience meets . The evaluation request must originate from GCU.
Foundation for International Services (FIS)
Foundation for International Services (FIS) performs evaluation and translation services for students. In order for test results to be accepted as enrollment credentials, the service request must originate from GCU.
Berlitz Language Evaluation or Duolingo
Berlitz Language Evaluation or Duolingo for students who must pass an English as a foreign language test.
Berlitz Course
Berlitz courses are available for undergraduate students who need to fulfill lower division credits.
Learn about your opportunities to study in an online or evening program at GCU if you have completed education outside the U.S.