International Study FAQs

  1. What is the admission deadline?
    1. All applications for admission must be received by:
      Fall: July 1st
      Spring:  November 1st
    2. For transfer students
      Fall: August 1st
      Spring: December 1st  
  2. How long does the admission process take?
    After reviewing your application materials, we will notify you of your acceptance status using the email provided in your application. Please allow ten business days for processing. However, applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
  3. What scholarshipS or financial aid ARE available for international students?
    Western Iowa Tech offers two scholarship opportunities for international students (Housing and Foundation Scholarships). We encourage you to review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship and explore the application process. For more information, please visit our Scholarships page. 
  4. Can I apply for FAFSA or a Student Loan?
    International students are not eligible for FAFSA or federal student loans.
  5. Can an international student work while in the United States on an F1 visa?
    The U.S. government takes working illegally very seriously. There are limited work opportunities available in the United States for F-1 students. For this reason, before coming to the United States, F-1 students must prove they have the financial ability (e.g., present bank statements) to pay for tuition and living expenses while studying. If an F-1 student decides to work, the first step is always to talk with their designated school official. M-1 students are ineligible to work.
    Western Iowa Tech has an extremely limited number of on-campus employment opportunities available for our students. On-campus employment may not be available and should NOT be a part of the student's plan for covering expenses while attending Western Iowa Tech.
    For more information, visit the Working in the United States page.
  6. Can an international student enroll in online classes? 
    Only one online or distance learning class can count toward a full course of study for an F-1 student during each term or semester.
    No online or distance learning classes may count toward an M-1 or ESL student's full course of study requirement.
    For more information about online courses, please visit the Full Course of Study page. 
  7. Can an international student obtain a Social Security number?
    International students are required to obtain a Social Security number in order to work in the United States. For detailed information regarding the application process, please refer to the Obtaining a Social Security Number page.