International Students

If you're an international student, you'll need to meet all the same admission requirements as domestic students, plus a few extras:

You must complete an academic program equal to a U.S. bachelor’s degree before you enroll. If you’re in your final year, you can apply, but you must provide proof of graduation before the end of your first semester at UB.

Some degrees are not considered equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree. This applies to:

• Taiwan – Junior college diplomas or non-degree certificates
• UK system – ONDs or HNDs
• Bangladesh, Burma, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka – Two- and three-year bachelor's degrees (only B.E., B.Sc.Engr., and all master’s degrees qualify)
• Nigeria – Nigerian Certificates of Education

All international applicants (unless exempt) must prove their English skills by submitting official test scores. UB accepts a TOEFL iBT of 79+ or equivalent.

• UB's TOEFL code: 2925
• Earth Sciences department code: 71

All international applicants must document their ability to meet their educational and personal expenses for the entire period of intended study before UB can issue an I-20 or IAP-66. It is essential that you read the International Applicant Financial Form carefully. Complete and return the form along with official supporting documentation as outlined in the instructions. No certificate of eligibility will be issued without satisfactory financial documentation. Financial documentation is required for visa issuance only.

UB offers a limited number of Teaching, Research, and Graduate Assistantships for international students. These positions provide:

✅ A stipend
✅ A tuition scholarship
✅ Professional experience in teaching or research

Assistantships are competitive, so apply early!

UB provides an I-20 for F-1 student visas. In some cases, we issue IAP-66 forms for J-1 Exchange Visitor visas. This applies if you:

• Are funded by the U.S. government or an international organization
• Are in a SUNY Buffalo exchange program
• Are already in the U.S. on a J-1 visa and transferring to UB
• Come from a country that requires a J-1 visa

 Indicate the type of visa necessary on the application form.

All international students are required to enroll as full-time degree program students. 

Part-time (less than 12 credit hours per semester) enrollment of international students is permitted in the following cases: 

• You’re a Canadian commuter
• You hold a visa other than F-1 or J-1
• You’re a spouse or dependent of an F-1 or J-1 student

International students may be admitted as non-degree students if they are funded by an institution or international agency for the specific purpose of non-degree study. If approved, such a study may not exceed one calendar year in duration. Non-degree students must meet the same admission requirements as full-time students and provide financial documentation. Courses taken by non-degree students do not automatically apply toward a graduate degree if the student eventually matriculates into a degree program.

🚨 Important! Do not travel to UB until:

• You receive your Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or IAP-66) and official admission letter.
• You have the correct visa. If you enter the U.S. on a B2 Visitor’s Visa without a “prospective student” stamp, you cannot switch to a student visa later.
• You use UB’s I-20/IAP-66, not one from another school.

After admission, UB will send you pre-arrival and housing details.

Questions? Please contact us!