International Graduate STEM Programs

1. What are the admissions requirements?

We have a streamlined six-stage process for admission at SBU (Download PDF here)

• Step 1: Submit SBU STEM Application
  • Complete and submit your online International Graduate STEM Application through our admissions portal. 

• Step 2: Document Submission
  • Required documents vary by student type:
  • New SEVIS International Student (First-time US students):
    • $22,450 proof of funding before scholarship awards
    • Unofficial transcripts of last degree earned
    • Clear copy of passport (identification page only)
    • English proficiency test scores
  • Transfer SEVIS International Students (Current F-1 visa holders):
    • $22,450 proof of funding before scholarship awards
    • Unofficial transcripts of last degree earned
    • Clear copy of passport (identification page only)
    • English proficiency test scores
    • Current visa documentation (recommended for faster processing)
    • Current or previous I-20 (helps with issuing I-20)  
• Step 3: Admission Decision
  • Applications are reviewed within 24 hours of receiving all required documents.  
• Step 4: Pre-I-20 Requirements
  • New International Students:
    • Financial Affidavit Form
    • Intent to Enroll Form
  • Transfer Students:
    • Financial Affidavit Form
    • Intent to Enroll Form
    • SEVIS Transfer Request (coordinated with your current university's DSO)
• Step 5: I-20 Issuance
  • I-20 documents are issued within 24 hours of completing Stage 4 requirements.
• Step 6: Enrollment Complete
  • Final enrollment includes official transcript submission, course registration, and IT system setup. 

 

2. Do I need to show proof of funding?  

Yes, financial documentation is required during Step 2 of the application process before admission decisions are made. 

For the 2025-26 academic year, students must demonstrate $22,450 USD in available funds annually. This amount covers estimated tuition, materials fees, and living expenses. 

Students receiving the maximum scholarship award of $4,050 need to demonstrate $18,400 in available funds ($22,450 - $4,050 = $18,400). 

Acceptable financial documents include: 

• Bank statements (dated within the last 6 months) 
• Sponsor letters with supporting financial documentation 
• Scholarship award letters  

 

3. When will I be admitted? 

Students will be considered for admission once they submit all Stage 2 documents in their application. We will review all documents and if you meet all qualifications for admission, you will receive an admission decision within 24 hours. 

Please note: Incomplete applications cannot be processed. Ensure all required documents are submitted before expecting a decision. 

 

4. What if my SEVIS record will be terminated soon? 

If your SEVIS record is scheduled for termination within one week, please apply immediately and include all documents required for transfer students.

For urgent SEVIS transfer situations, please email Joshua Behnken at joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu immediately for expedited assistance. 

 

5. Who is my enrollment counselor? 

Joshua Behnken (joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu) is your primary enrollment counselor and point of contact throughout the entire admissions and enrollment process. 

 

6. What if I haven't heard from my enrollment counselor? 

The SBU team processes applications, emails, and inquiries in the order they are received. For the most efficient service, please direct all inquiries to your designated enrollment counselor. 

Joshua Behnken (joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu) will respond to all inquiries within 1 business day. If you haven't received a response within this timeframe, please follow up with a second email. 

 

7. What are the additional fees beyond tuition? 

Additional fees include: 

• Books fee: $30 per credit hour 
• Educational resources fee: $30 per credit hour 
• Total additional fees: $60 per credit hour 

For a complete cost breakdown and current tuition rates, please visit our program webpage or contact your enrollment counselor. 

 

8. Can I receive transfer credit from my previous school? 

Yes, transfer credit may be available for relevant graduate coursework completed at accredited institutions. 

Transfer credit process: 

• Submit official transcripts from your previous graduate program(s) 
• Transcripts will be reviewed by admissions and academic staff 
• Transfer credit decisions will be communicated during the enrollment process 

Please note a maximum transfer credit of 9 credit hours may be applied toward your degree program. Transfer credit evaluation occurs after admission but before final enrollment to ensure accurate degree planning. 

 

9. What happens after I'm admitted? 

After receiving your admission letter, you'll need to complete several steps before enrollment: 

• Complete Pre-I-20 forms (Financial Affidavit and Intent to Enroll) 
• Receive your I-20 (issued within 24 hours of completing forms) 
• Apply for your F-1 visa (if applicable) 
• Submit official transcripts for final enrollment 
• Complete IT setup and course registration 

Your enrollment counselor will guide you through each step and provide detailed instructions as you progress. 

 

10. How long does the entire process take? 

Timeline for complete enrollment: 

• Application review: 24 hours after submitting all required documents 
• I-20 processing: 24 hours after completing pre-I-20 requirements 
• Total process: Typically, 3 business days for complete applications but can be done in 24 hours if all documents submitted correctly 

Note: Transfer students may require additional time for SEVIS transfer coordination with their current institution. 

 

Need Additional Help? 

For questions not covered in this FAQ, contact your enrollment counselor: Joshua Behnken 

International Graduate Admissions Counselor Email: joshua.behnken@sbuniv.edu