{"id":91,"date":"2023-04-18T00:10:22","date_gmt":"2023-04-18T00:10:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ggutemp.lndo.site\/?page_id=91"},"modified":"2025-10-31T13:14:24","modified_gmt":"2025-10-31T20:14:24","slug":"international-students","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/admissions\/international-students\/","title":{"rendered":"International Students"},"content":{"rendered":"<section id=\"block_e9aa4ad48688baa477f231546b41b228\" class=\"cc-block container--full container--cc-hero-module title--\">\n  <div class=\"container\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-hero-module\">\n    <div class=\"cc-hero-module mode--form\">\n              <div class=\"slide text-side--right box-style--blue-box accent--no-accent\">\n                                  <div class=\"background-image\">\n              \t\t\t\t\t\t<img src=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Hero_ggushoot60_16x9.jpg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Hero_ggushoot60_16x9.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Hero_ggushoot60_16x9-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Hero_ggushoot60_16x9-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Hero_ggushoot60_16x9-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Hero_ggushoot60_16x9-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Hero_ggushoot60_16x9-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 100vw\" alt=\"Man sitting outside holding book and working on laptop computer.\" class=\"\" loading=\"eager\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\">\n\n            <\/div>\n                                <div class=\"container\">\n            <div class=\"inline-wrapper\">\n              <div class=\"text-box align--bottom\">\n                <div class=\"text-box--wrapper\">\n                                      <h1 class=\"text-box--title\">International Students<\/h1>\n                                                        <div class=\"text-box--text\"><p>Ready to apply or have more questions about attending Golden Gate University as an international student?<\/p>\n<p>Click on the question mark in the lower right corner of the page to chat and connect.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                                        <div class=\"text-box--button button--left\">\n                                                                                                            <\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                          <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"block_92147369d3f5f8ef75ab364cfe5bb197\" class=\"cc-block container--normal container--cc-program-overview title--left title--underline\">\n  <div class=\"cc-program-overview\">\n  <div class=\"container\">\n    <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-program-overview\">\n      <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n                  <div class=\"title-wrapper__title underlined\">\n            <h2>Start Your Next Chapter<\/h2>\n          <\/div>\n                      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"sidebar\">\n              <\/div>\n      <div class=\"panel\">\n                          <div class=\"panel__text\">\n            <p>At Golden Gate University, we are committed to helping international students like you, in F-1 or J-1 immigration status, find academic and career success.<\/p>\n<p>We offer a variety of affordable and flexible master\u2019s degrees designed to help advance your career. GGU\u2019s student body is made up of students from the United States and around the world. International students come from more than 50 countries, making our campus a diverse and welcoming place. Learn from our scholar-practitioners, who have decades of experience at San Francisco\u2019s biggest companies, and find your home in the Bay Area.<\/p>\n<p>If you have questions about attending Golden Gate University as an international student the best way to get answers and the support you need to get started is by contacting us.<\/p>\n<p>Phone: <a href=\"tel:14154427800\">1-415-442-7800<\/a><br>\nEmail: <a href=\"mailto:internationaladmit@ggu.edu\">internationaladmit@ggu.edu<\/a><\/p>\n\n          <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"block_add599e07a2c01f0b0c19a06bc5b3f50\" class=\"cc-block container--full container--cc-video title--center title--underline\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-video bg--\">\n  <div class=\"cc-video\">\n    <div class=\"container\">\n              <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n                      <div class=\"title-wrapper__title\">\n              <h2 class=\"title--3\">Study in the Heart of San Francisco<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n                  <\/div>\n            <div class=\"grid size--small\">\n                  <div class=\"video-wrapper\">\n            <div class=\"plyr\" data-poster=\"\">\n              <iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"International Students -- Golden Gate University Welcomes YOU!\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/2EcAN60qp0c?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n            <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n                      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"admission-requirements\" class=\"cc-block container--full container--cc-graf title--left title--underline\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-graf\">\n  <div class=\"cc-graf\">\n    <div class=\"container\">\n              <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n                      <div class=\"title-wrapper__title underlined\">\n              <h2>Admission Requirements<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"text-wrapper\">\n          <p>GGU international students are granted admission on a \u201crolling\u201d basis. GGU does not have an application deadline. Students are encouraged to apply early to allow time for an admission decision, issuing the Form I-20 and visa appointment as necessary.<\/p>\n<p>Additional processing time may be needed to obtain government documents required for the admissions decision. Timely submission is important for students currently living outside the United States who will need to apply for an F-1 or J-1 visa in their home country.<\/p>\n<h4>Undergraduate Degree Requirements<\/h4>\n<p>In addition to the <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=870#undergraduate-admission-policies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">undergraduate admission criteria<\/a> listed in our catalog, international students applying for undergraduate program must:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Be at least 20 years of age.<\/li>\n<li>Have completed the equivalent of a US associate of arts degree (60 units) or 60 units of undergraduate-level credits.<\/li>\n<li>Have a cumulative GPA of 2.0.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>Master\u2019s Degree Requirements<\/h4>\n<p>International students seeking admission to a Master\u2019s degree program must meet the <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=870#graduate-admission-policies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">graduate admission criteria<\/a> including have earned Bachelor\u2019s degree or higher from a regionally-accredited US institution or the equivalent from a recognized foreign (outside the US) institution.<\/p>\n<h4>English Language Proficiency Admission Requirement<\/h4>\n<p>All international student applicants (undergraduate and graduate) must provide evidence of English language proficiency in the classroom by securely submitting their test scores\u00a0from any of the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ets.org\/toefl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TOEFL<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0(Test of English as a Foreign Language)<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ielts.org\/en-us\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IELTS<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0(International English Language Testing System)<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pearsonpte.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PTE<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>(Pearson Test of English Academic)<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/englishtest.duolingo.com\/applicants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Duolingo English Test<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.itepexam.com\/products\/itepacademic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">iTEP<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>(International Test of English Proficiency)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Learn more about our language requirements in the <a href=\"#faq\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a> below.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"block_f078c8c2206a46c32c7b569cb25d4cc9\" class=\"cc-block container--full container--cc-divider title--\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-divider\">\n  <div class=\"cc-divider\">\n          <div class=\"container\">\n        <div class=\"divider divider__type--line layout--blue-line\">\n          <div class=\"divider__line\"><\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"transcripts\" class=\"cc-block container--full container--cc-graf title--left title--underline\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-graf\">\n  <div class=\"cc-graf\">\n    <div class=\"container\">\n              <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n                      <div class=\"title-wrapper__title underlined\">\n              <h2>Transcripts<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"text-wrapper\">\n          <p>Applicants must submit official transcripts \u2014 and certified English translations \u2014 from each school previously attended. Examination scores and mark sheets may be submitted if the institutions attended do not maintain transcripts.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Chinese Academic Documents:<\/strong> Applicants must submit credential reports in English for transcripts and degree certificates, issued by the China Academic Degree &amp; Graduate Education Development Center at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdgdc.edu.cn\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.cdgdc.edu.cn<\/a>. The documents should be sent directly to Golden Gate University, Office of Admissions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Options for credential evaluations are as follows: <\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/spanside.my.salesforce-sites.com\/SpantranApplication?Id=f0ee6c9f-a456-4b6b-a929-fe177049a646\">Spantran<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/myiee.org\/university\/golden-gate-university\">International Education Evaluations (IEE)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ierf.org\/\">International Education Research Foundation (IERF)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/accounts.ece.org\/TPO\/GGU-A\">Education Credential Evaluators (ECE)<\/a><\/li>\n<li>World Education Services (WES)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n        <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"block_6c05f101b2f607976428ff0085af84bc\" class=\"cc-block container--full container--cc-divider title--\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-divider\">\n  <div class=\"cc-divider\">\n          <div class=\"container\">\n        <div class=\"divider divider__type--line layout--blue-line\">\n          <div class=\"divider__line\"><\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"alt-methodsd\" class=\"cc-block container--full container--cc-graf title--left title--underline\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-graf\">\n  <div class=\"cc-graf\">\n    <div class=\"container\">\n              <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n                      <div class=\"title-wrapper__title underlined\">\n              <h2>Qualifying Through Alternative Methods<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"text-wrapper\">\n          <p>Applicants may also qualify for admission by meeting one of the following requirements:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Completion of the equivalent of GGU\u2019s English 1A, Expository Writing and 1B, Research Writing at regionally accredited US college or university with grades of B+ or better.<\/li>\n<li>Bachelor\u2019s degree from regionally accredited US college\/university or equivalent from recognized college \/ university in other English Speaking country with at least 60 of the units earned in the US or in the English Speaking country.*<\/li>\n<li>Master\u2019s degrees from regionally accredited US college\/university or equivalent from recognized college \/ university in another English-speaking country.*<\/li>\n<li>Seven years of documented, increasingly responsible, professional experience in the US or other English-speaking country.<\/li>\n<li>APIEL (College Board) Undergraduate: 3 or higher, Graduate: 4 or higher.<\/li>\n<li>Completion of three (3) years of high school in the US or another acceptable English-speaking country*<\/li>\n<li>Completion of a British-standard \u201cO-level\u201d examination in English Language \/ Literature with a mark of C or higher.**<\/li>\n<li>Completion of a British-standard \u201cA-level\u201d examination in English Language \/ Literature with a mark of A\/O or D or higher.**<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>* Not all English medium educational systems fulfill this requirement. Qualifying countries are Australia, Anglophone Canada, Great Britain, Ireland and New Zealand.<\/p>\n<p>** Not all countries offering O- and A-level examinations meet British examining board standards. Countries with this standard include: Bahamas, Belize, Brunei, Ghana, Great Britain, Guyana, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Zambia and Zimbabwe.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"immigration-info\" class=\"cc-block container--normal container--cc-cta-boxed title--left title--underline\">\n  <div class=\"cc-cta-boxed image-side--left\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-cta-boxed\">\n    <div class=\"text-wrapper\">\n              <div class=\"text-wrapper__title\">\n          <h2 class=\"title--4\">Immigration &amp; Law Enforcement Information for Students, Faculty, and Staff<\/h2>\n        <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"text-wrapper__text\"><p>The information contained on this page of our website is provided to assist members of our University community and in accordance with the State of California law regarding immigration enforcement.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"text-wrapper__button tar\">\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/immigration-and-law-enforcement-information\/\" class=\"button button--blue button--to-orange\" target=\"\">Learn More<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n    <div class=\"image-wrapper\">\n              <div class=\"image-wrapper__image image-size--contain\">\n          \t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_International-student-global-education_orange.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_International-student-global-education_orange.png 640w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_International-student-global-education_orange-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\">\n\n        <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"international-scholarships\" class=\"cc-block container--normal container--cc-multicolumn-text-image title--\">\n  <div class=\"cc-multicolumn-text-image\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper wrapper__cc-multicolumn-text-image columns--2\">\n          <div class=\"column tal title--underline boxed box-color--white\">\n                  <div class=\"image-wrapper aspect-ratio--pano object-fit--cover\">\n              \t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_global-education_colored.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"Globe sitting on top of open book.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_global-education_colored.png 640w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_global-education_colored-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\">\n\n          <\/div>\n                <div class=\"text-wrapper\">\n                      <div class=\"title-wrapper__title\">\n              <h2 class=\"title--3\">International <br class=\"break-desktop\" \/>Undergraduate Scholarships<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n                                          <p>Golden Gate University welcomes students from all over the world and offers scholarships for all qualified international students who are attending our San Francisco campus in our School of Undergraduate Studies.<\/p>\n\n                                                                      <div class=\"tac\">\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/financial-aid-international-undergraduate-scholarships\/\" class=\"button button--orange button--to-blue\" target=\"\">View Undergraduate Scholarships<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                  <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n          <div class=\"column tal title--underline boxed box-color--white\">\n                  <div class=\"image-wrapper aspect-ratio--pano object-fit--cover\">\n              \t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_Financial-Aid_v1_colored.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"Tuition for the School of Taxation\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_Financial-Aid_v1_colored.png 640w, https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/GGU_Web-Icons_Financial-Aid_v1_colored-300x169.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\">\n\n          <\/div>\n                <div class=\"text-wrapper\">\n                      <div class=\"title-wrapper__title\">\n              <h2 class=\"title--3\">International <br class=\"break-desktop\" \/>Graduate Scholarships<\/h2>\n            <\/div>\n                                          <p>Golden Gate University welcomes students from all over the world and offers scholarships for all qualified international students who are attending our San Francisco campus in a master\u2019s degree program in our School of Business, School of Accounting and Braden School of Tax.<\/p>\n\n                                                                      <div class=\"tac\">\n              <a href=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/financial-aid-international-graduate-scholarships\/\" class=\"button button--orange button--to-blue\" target=\"\">View Graduate Scholarships<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n                  <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section id=\"faq\" class=\"cc-block container--normal container--cc-accordion title--left title--underline\">\n  <div class=\"cc-accordion layout--light\">\n  <div class=\"inline-wrapper\">\n          <div class=\"title-wrapper\">\n        <h2 id=\"faq_title\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n              <\/div>\n              <div class=\"panels-wrapper\">\n                  <div class=\"panels Accordion\" data-allow-multiple>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_1\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_1\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">When should I apply?<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_1\" hidden>\n                  <p>GGU international students are granted admission on a \u201crolling\u201d basis. GGU does not have an application deadline. Students are encouraged to apply early to allow time for an admission decision, issuing the Form I-20 and visa appointment as necessary. Additional processing time may be needed to obtain government documents required for the admissions decision. Timely submission is important for students currently living outside the United States who will need to apply for an F-1 or J-1 visa in their home country.<\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 27.0995%;\">Recommended Application <br class=\"break-desktop\">Priority Deadlines<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.5671%;\"><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 27.0995%;\"><strong>Semester<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.5671%;\"><strong>Final International App Deadline<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\"><strong>Start Date<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 27.0995%;\">Spring 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.5671%;\">December 21, 2025<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">January 11, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 27.0995%;\">Summer 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 39.5671%;\">March 8, 2026<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 33.3333%;\">May 10, 2026<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_2\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_2\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">I want to study in San Francisco. What is a hybrid program at GGU, and how is it different from an online program? Does a hybrid program meet the requirements for an F-1 student visa?<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_2\" hidden>\n                  <p>At GGU, a hybrid program combines in-person classes held at our downtown San Francisco campus with online coursework. Students in hybrid courses are required to attend a portion of their classes on campus throughout the term, which allows them to meet the in-person study requirements of the F-1 visa. In contrast, GGU\u2019s fully online programs are delivered 100% remotely and are not eligible for F-1 visa sponsorship, as the U.S. government requires international students on F-1 visas to engage in face-to-face learning. F-1 visa regulations require international students to be enrolled full-time and take a minimum number of credits in person each semester. At GGU, that typically means taking at least one hybrid course per term and no more than one online course, depending on the program.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about GGU\u2019s definitions for learning modalities for programs and courses <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=18&amp;navoid=1091#instruction-modes\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about the full-time requirements for F-1 visa students <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=18&amp;navoid=1091#enrollment-minimum-and-maximum-requirements\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_3\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_3\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">Where can I find information about student visas?<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_3\" hidden>\n                  <p>For all international students at Golden Gate University, it is the student\u2019s responsibility to maintain legal F-1 or J-1 visa status. Visa information provided by the US Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs can be found at the following resources:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.usembassy.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">US Embassies\/Consulates on the Web<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">General Visa Services Information<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/study\/student-visa.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">F-1 Foreign Student Visa<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/study\/exchange.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_4\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_4\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">What are the language requirements?<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_4\" hidden>\n                  <h3>English Language Proficiency Admission Requirement<\/h3>\n<p>All international student applicants (undergraduate and graduate) must provide evidence of English language proficiency in the classroom by securely submitting their test scores\u00a0from any of the following:<\/p>\n<table class=\"text-color-dark\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Test<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Graduate Minimum Score<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Undergraduate Minimum Score<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ets.org\/bin\/getprogram.cgi?test=toefl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TOEFL Internet-based test (iBT)*<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>79<\/td>\n<td>60<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ielts.org\/book-a-test\/find-a-test-location\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IELTS*<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>6.5<\/td>\n<td>6.0<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pearsonpte.com\/the-test\/test-centers-and-fees\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pearson Test of English (PTE)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>57<\/td>\n<td>48<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><a href=\"https:\/\/englishtest.duolingo.com\/en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Duolingo<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>110<\/td>\n<td>90<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.itepexam.com\/products\/itepacademic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Test of English Proficiency (iTEP Academic)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>3.8<\/td>\n<td>3.5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><\/h3>\n<p>*Home editions are also accepted.<\/p>\n<p>Applicants may satisfy this English Language Proficiency requirement by one of the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Accumulated five years of documented employment experience(s) in the U.S. or a country, territory, or commonwealth where\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=870#english-is-an-official-language\">English is an official language<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Completed\u00a0<strong><a id=\"tt6920\" href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=870#tt6920\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"\/ajax\/preview_course.php?catoid=15&amp;coid=9769&amp;display_options[location]=tooltip&amp;show noopener remote\">ENGL 50<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0<strong><a id=\"tt9074\" href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=870#tt9074\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"\/ajax\/preview_course.php?catoid=15&amp;coid=9770&amp;display_options[location]=tooltip&amp;show noopener remote\">ENGL 60<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0(or equivalent) at an accredited college\/university where a medium of instruction is English with grades of \u201cB+\u201d or better in both.<\/li>\n<li>For undergraduate applicants, attended a secondary school where a medium of instruction is English or a country, territory, or commonwealth where\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=870#english-is-an-official-language\">English is an official language<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Completed undergraduate, or graduate credits, certificate, or degree from an accredited college\/university where a medium of instruction is English or a country, territory, or commonwealth where\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=870#english-is-an-official-language\">English is an official language<\/a><\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Waived by the dean or Provost.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>GGU reserves the right to request additional English proficiency exams\/testing from any applicant based on the entirety of the application review; or, if the applicant\u2019s proficiency in English should prove inadequate after admission to a program.<\/p>\n<h3>English is an Official Language<\/h3>\n<p>The following is a list of countries, territories, or commonwealths\u00a0where English is an official language: American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Dominica, Gambia, Ghana, Grand Cayman Islands, Grenada, Guam, Guyana,\u00a0Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Montserrat, Namibia. New Zealand, Nigeria, Palau, Philippines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa, St. Lucia, St. Vincent &amp; the Grenadines, Swaziland, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.<\/p>\n<p>Graduate students who satisfy the English Language Proficiency Admission Requirements\u00a0are also expected to possess proficiency in writing to ensure they are successful in their course of study. Students may meet this requirement by satisfying one of the screening criteria listed under the\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ggu.edu\/content.php?catoid=15&amp;navoid=877#graduate-writing-proficiency-requirement\">Graduate Writing Proficiency Requirement<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3>English Language Schools<\/h3>\n<p>Golden Gate University have partnered with several English Language Schools in San Francisco Bay Area as options to satisfy English Language Proficiency Admission Requirement. English Conditional Admit students are required to complete the required course(s) at English Schools below before they can start their program in Golden Gate University.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Intercultural Institute of California \u2013 San Francisco, CA<\/li>\n<li>EC English \u2013 San Francisco, CA<\/li>\n<li>English Language Institute \u2013 San Francisco<\/li>\n<li>Language Pacifica \u2013 Palo Alto, CA<\/li>\n<li>Silicon Valley Intensive English Program (SVIEP) \u2013 Redwood City, CA<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_5\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_5\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">What immigration policies should I be aware of?<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_5\" hidden>\n                  <p>Experienced advisors (Designated School Officials, DSOs) at GGU assist students with a variety of immigration-related issues including: travel I-20\u2019s, letters of support, employment eligibility (including CPT, OPT and STEM OPT) \u00a0and other topics. The information provided on this website is meant to serve as a general guideline. It is not considered legal advice.<\/p>\n<p>Immigration regulations are constantly changing, so international students are encouraged to carefully read messages sent by the International Student Services Office (\u201cISS\u201d) and review this website for updates. Students are ultimately responsible for understanding and abiding by the guidelines imposed by current immigration status requirements. ISS strongly encourages students to contact our office with any immigration-related questions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Maintaining Status<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>F-1 or J-1 status students are required to abide by various federal regulations to maintain immigration status. A few of these requirements include: providing ISS with a current address, enrolling in a full course of study, and keeping appropriate immigration documents up to date.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Full Time Enrollment<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Immigration regulations require F-1 students enroll in a full course of study while completing degree programs in the US. GGU defines a full course of study depending upon the academic level and degree program. The chart below summarizes enrollment requirements.<\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\">Full Time Enrollment Requirements<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\"><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\"><strong>Degree Level<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\"><strong>Units Required<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\">Undergraduate<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\">Twelve (12) units per academic term or more<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\">Graduate<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\">Six (6) units per academic term or more<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\">Doctorate<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\">Six (6) units per academic term or more<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Only one online course may used to meet the full time enrollment requirement. Students may enroll in more than one online course after meeting the full time enrollment requirement. Full time enrollment also requires students to be enrolled over the course of the entire term. This means students must enroll in at least one 16-week course or a combination of 8-week terms including both B term and C term.<\/p>\n<p>Students may be authorized to enroll in less than a full course of study if they have academic difficulties, a valid medical condition, or are eligible for a vacation term. Students must consult with ISS and receive proper authorization\u00a0<strong>PRIOR<\/strong>\u00a0to enrolling in a reduced course load or dropping below a full course of study. Failure to receive proper authorization could jeopardize your immigration status.<\/p>\n<p>Students are eligible for a vacation term after completing two consecutive terms as a full time student at Golden Gate University. Students should inform ISS of intent to take a vacation term by submitting a Reduced Course Load Form before the beginning of the term.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Address Changes<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>F-1 and J-1 visa students are required to report a change of address within ten days of moving to a new location. Address updates can be made by logging in to GGU4YOU.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Immigration Documents<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>While in the US, international students should always be aware of the following:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li>Maintain a valid I-20 which reflects your current degree level and program of study. You are responsible for making sure the dates on your I-20 are current and valid.<\/li>\n<li>If you are unable to finish all degree requirements before the completion date listed on your I-20, you must request a program extension before your I-20 expires. An extension cannot be granted after the program completion date has passed.<\/li>\n<li>Maintain a valid passport at all times. Contact your Embassy or Consulate to extend your passport.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>On Campus Employment<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>F-1 visa status students are eligible to work part-time while school is in session and full-time during approved vacation terms. Part-time work is considered no more than 20 hours per week. Many international students who would like to work on campus at GGU are able to secure positions. On campus job openings are posted on <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ggu.edu\/about-ggu\/careers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">GGU Careers<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>International students do not require authorization from USCIS to work on campus. Once a job offer has been received, ISS will help students with documentation needed to apply for a Social Security Number. You will not be permitted to begin work until you have obtained a Social Security Number.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.ggu.edu\/admissions\/graduate\/international\/faq\/#uscis\">Read More About USCIS<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/egov.uscis.gov\/crisgwi\/go?action=offices.summary&amp;OfficeLocator.office_type=LO&amp;OfficeLocator.statecode=CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Visit a California USCIS Office<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>SEVIS Fee<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>F-1 student visa applicants are required to pay a one-time fee of $350 to supplement the administration and maintenance costs of the Student and Exchange Information System (SEVIS).<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.ggu.edu\/admissions\/graduate\/international\/faq\/#sevis\">Read More About SEVIS<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/studyinthestates.dhs.gov\/students\/accepted\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Department of Homeland Security: Study in the States<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Basic Travel Guidelines<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">In general, when traveling outside the US, F-1 students will need the following documents:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li>A valid I-20 with the second page endorsed for travel by a DSO<\/li>\n<li>A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of re-entry to the US<\/li>\n<li>A valid F-1 visa. The visa only needs to be valid through the date of re-entry to the US<\/li>\n<li>Verification of financial support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you are traveling to a country other than your own, be sure to check with the consulate or embassy of that country. You may need to apply for a tourist visa.<\/p>\n<p>Anytime you travel, please submit an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/my.ggu.edu\/student-resources\/student-forms\/i-20-travel-request\">I-20 Travel Signature Request<\/a>\u00a0 at least one week before leaving San Francisco. If you have dependents in the US, they will also need to obtain a travel signature on their dependent I-20 if they plan to travel.<\/p>\n<p>The US Department of State and \u00a0Department of Homeland Security (USCIS) have increased the level of review international visitors face at US Consulates and Embassies abroad, US airports, and border crossing posts with Canada and Mexico.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">If you choose to travel, please follow these recommendations:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li>Carry proof of current enrollment at GGU and an official or unofficial copy of academic transcripts.<\/li>\n<li>Be honest, patient and courteous with all government officials, even if they are not the same way in return.<\/li>\n<li>Consult the\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.state.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">US Department of State website<\/a>\u00a0for alerts and information on visa issuance at particular US Embassies and Consulates abroad.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Be prepared when you travel for the following possibilities:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li>Delays in appointment scheduling and visa processing at US Consulates.<\/li>\n<li>Change of visa processing procedures at some US Consulates.<\/li>\n<li>Delays in flights within the US and returning to the US from abroad due to heightened security measures at airports and delays along the Canadian border.<\/li>\n<li>Inquiries and increased review of documents at all ports of entry for non-US citizens.<\/li>\n<li>Multiple inspections of the same person by Immigration Service and\/or Customs Officials, including possible Secondary Inspection.<\/li>\n<li>Possible photocopying of documents by USCIS officials and possible videotaping of USCIS, Customs or FBI interviews.<\/li>\n<li>Inspection of personal belongings, luggage, pockets or other searches.<\/li>\n<li>For students in certain technologically sensitive fields, the Department of State is required to conduct a security clearance prior to issuing an initial US entry visa or extension of visa through a US Consulate abroad. The fields are listed on the Technology Alert List. Clearance may take one month to several months.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"custom-primary-font custom-fontsize-1 font-weight-normal mb-0 ml-4\"><strong>Disclaimer<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><small>Given the current rapidness of changes to immigration regulations and practices, this information is subject to change.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_6\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_6\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">What do I need to know about health insurance in the United States?<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_6\" hidden>\n                  <p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Overview of Policy on Health Insurance<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Golden Gate University does not administer a group insurance plan for F1 and J1 visa holders in the Schools of Business, Tax, and Accounting. Students are now responsible for obtaining health insurance coverage independently. For more information about several different insurance options see below.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>U.S. Health Insurance Introduction<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Although GGU will no longer require that F1 visa holders* show proof of health insurance coverage, we\u00a0<em>very strongly<\/em>\u00a0recommend that you have health insurance while in the United States. It is important to be aware that the United States healthcare system is likely quite different from the system in your home country. Having health insurance coverage while in the U.S. is crucial as costs can be extremely high if you are injured or sick and do not have coverage. For a brief overview of the U.S. healthcare system, please take a look at\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/72268541\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this International Student Insurance video.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>*Note for J1 visa holders: J1 visa holders are still required to show proof of health insurance that meets certain coverage requirements. If you are a J1 student attending GGU through a sponsoring organization, your sponsor will likely provide health insurance coverage. If you will be studying on a J1 visa at GGU and you do not have pre-arranged insurance coverage, the below ISO plan meets government requirements.<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Health Insurance Options<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The information below can help you start to find the right plan for you. Please note that the time required to enroll in a new plan can vary depending on individual circumstances, therefore it is important to plan ahead and apply early to avoid gaps in your coverage.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Insurance Through Family:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If your spouse or domestic partner is employed in the U.S., consider enrolling in a health insurance plan through his or her employer.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Insurance Purchased from a Provider:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/individual-family.kaiserpermanente.org\/healthinsurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kaiser:<\/a>\u00a0Continue coverage with Kaiser by purchasing a plan directly.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.isoa.org\/golden_gate_university\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ISO:<\/a> Offers reasonably priced options.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.coveredca.com\/shopandcompare\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Covered California:<\/a> An insurance marketplace established in California. Available to F1 and J1 visa holders.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">It is advisable to seek US health insurance that offers the following coverage at or above the following:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li>The policy has a low annual deductible ($150 \u2013 500 USD) per year.<\/li>\n<li>Understand whether your insurance offers \u201cper incident\u201d deductibles.<\/li>\n<li>Policy covers at least $100,000 USD per injury or sickness.<\/li>\n<li>Benefits are payable at least 70% within the provider network<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><em>Do I really need health insurance in the U.S.? It\u2019s so expensive, and I\u2019m healthy, anyways.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Yes, you still need it! In the United States, the cost of health care is not covered by the government as it is in some other countries, so it is important to have a private health insurance plan. Even though you may be healthy, it is necessary to have health insurance in case you get injured or become sick. If you do not have insurance, fall ill or get into an accident, and have to pay for your care completely out of pocket, the cost of care could end up being in the many thousands of dollars. For example, as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.internationalstudentinsurance.com\/explained\/us-healthcare-system-video.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this International Student Insurance video demonstrates<\/a>, treating a broken bone can cost\u00a0<em>$18,000 \u2013 $47,000<\/em>\u00a0out of pocket.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><em>I really like the doctor I currently have through Kaiser Permanente. Can I keep seeing him\/her?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Yes, you may be able to continue working with your current doctor by purchasing insurance coverage through Kaiser directly (<a href=\"https:\/\/individual-family.kaiserpermanente.org\/healthinsurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>) or by selecting a Kaiser plan through Covered California (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.coveredca.com\/shopandcompare\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><em>Why is GGU no longer administering a health insurance plan for international students?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>We spent a lot of time considering whether to continue administering a health insurance plan. We ultimately decided to stop due to feedback from students and our determination that the resources used to administer an insurance plan will be better used to improve our services in other ways.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>US Health Insurance: Key Terms<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><em>Co-pay \u2013 <\/em>This is a fixed fee that you pay out of pocket at the time a medical service is rendered (e.g. visiting the doctor, obtaining prescription medicine). Your health insurance company will pay the remaining costs.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Co-insurance \u2013\u00a0This is similar to co-pay in that co-insurance represents a shared cost between you and the insurer for a service rendered. With co-insurance, however, the amount each party pays is not a fixed fee, but rather, is a percentage of the total cost of the service.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Annual Deductible \u2013\u00a0A deductible is a specific amount of covered medical expenses that you must incur and pay for out of pocket within one calendar-year before benefits are payable under the health insurance plan.<\/p>\n<p><em>An example:<\/em>\u00a0If your plan has a $150 co-pay for ambulance services, after the deductible, this means that if you are transported by ambulance on January 1, 2016, and an ambulance ride costs $800, you will pay $650: $500 for the annual deductible, plus the $150 co-pay. If you need to be transported by ambulance again in 2016 (which we hope you wouldn\u2019t!), you will just pay the $150 co-pay the second time around, since you will have already paid the full deductible.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on your plan, the deductible may be waived for some services.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Annual Out-of-Pocket Maximum \u2013\u00a0This is the maximum amount that you will have to pay from your own pocket for medical expenses in a plan year.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\">Maximum Lifetime Coverage \u2013\u00a0Some plans limit the total amount of money they will pay for your medical expenses during your lifetime. This will be listed in your insurance plan description as a \u201clifetime maximum\u201d or a \u201cmaximum lifetime benefit\u201d or \u201cmaximum benefit per condition.\u201d<\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_7\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_7\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">Are there any other considerations I should be aware of?<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_7\" hidden>\n                  <p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Transfer Credits<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Eligibility to transfer academic credits from other institutions is dependent on a number of factors. For more details see:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"roll\">\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.ggu.edu\/admissions\/graduate\/transfers\/\">GGU Transfer Credit Policy<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Additional Coursework<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>International applicants admitted to graduate degree programs may be required to complete more than the number of units specified as required for degree completion \u2014 regardless of the extent of previous work \u2014 if determined by Golden Gate University additional academic preparation is necessary.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Non-Immigrant Aliens<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The university is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students. The university will not issue appropriate documentation until the student has been admitted as a full graduate degree or graduate certificate candidate, and has been financially certified by the university\u2019s Certification of Finances approval process.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Residency Requirements<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Students holding F-1 or J-1 student or scholar visas may only attend the physical San Francisco campus.<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-color-dark text-5 mt-1 mb-4 line-height-5\"><strong>Minimum Course Units and Terms<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>U.S.\u00a0Department of Homeland Security\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/studyinthestates.dhs.gov\/students\/maintaining-status\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">regulations<\/a> <\/strong><span data-ogsc=\"black\">require international students residing in the U.S. with either\u00a0F-1 (student) Visas or J-1 (scholar) Visas\u00a0to enroll in a full course of study, meaning that these students must enroll at GGU on a full-time basis. The minimum number of units required to satisfy the full course of study requirement are dependent on students\u2019 degree levels, as follows:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul data-editing-info='{\"orderedStyleType\":1,\"unorderedStyleType\":1}' data-ogsb=\"white\">\n<li data-ogsc=\"black\"><span data-ogsc=\"black\">Undergraduate students are required to enroll in a minimum of twelve units per academic period.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-ogsc=\"black\"><span data-ogsc=\"black\">Graduate students\u00a0are required to enroll in a minimum of six units per academic period.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-ogsc=\"black\">\n<div data-ogsc=\"black\"><span data-ogsb=\"yellow\">Doctoral students must be enrolled in a minimum of six units per academic period while they are completing their coursework<\/span>\u00a0and four units per academic period while completing their dissertations.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_8\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_8\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">What steps do I need to complete next to start the student visa process at GGU? <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_8\" hidden>\n                  <div>After being admitted into your program, admitted international students must complete the following steps in order to start the visa process.<\/div>\n<p><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<div><strong>Step 1: Pay the GGU Commitment Fee.<\/strong> This fee secures your enrollment and signals our Form I-20 processing team that you are ready to begin the student visa process. This should be done as soon as possible after your admission decision. If you need assistance with this, please contact the admissions team or your enrollment advisor. The commitment fee is nonrefundable.<\/div>\n<p><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<div><strong>Step 2: Complete and submit required supplemental documents for your Form I-20.\u00a0<\/strong>All international students must complete and submit the required supplemental documents in their GGU portal. The required supplemental documents include the <a href=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/2025-Certificate-of-Finances-form.pdf\">Certificate of Finances form<\/a> (CoF), a copy of your passport, and proof of funds as listed on the CoF form. These documents are used to prepare and issue your Form I-20 document. Please note the CoF form is updated each academic year to reflect government rules and requirements, rising education and living costs, and other economic conditions. Additional information and documents may be requested if needed to verify and process the Form I-20. Please note that students are advised to wait until receipt of their Form I-20 before making a visa appointment.<\/div>\n<p><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<div>Any additional information or assistance that may be needed for the Form I-20 may be requested by contacting our office at <a href=\"mailto:internationaladmit@ggu.edu\">internationaladmit@ggu.edu<\/a>.<\/div>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"panel\" id=\"section_faq_9\">\n                <h3>\n                  <button class=\"Accordion-trigger tabs__triggers__trigger button--not nohover\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-section_faq_9\">\n                    <span class=\"text\">Download: Transfer-In and Transfer-Out Forms<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"icon\">\n                      <svg>\n  <use xlink:href=\"#icon-caret-right\"><\/use>\n<\/svg>\n\n                    <\/span>\n                  <\/button>\n                <\/h3>\n                <div class=\"panel-content\" id=\"panel-section_faq_9\" hidden>\n                  <p><a href=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Transfer-In-Form.pdf\">Transfer-In Form<\/a>: This form is for international students who have been admitted to a Golden Gate University program of study and who plan to transfer from another US educational institution. You<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ggu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Transfer-out-Form.pdf\">Transfer-Out Form<\/a>: This form should be used by students who wish to transfer from Golden Gate University to another SEVP-Certified institution in the US.<\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n                      <\/div>\n                  <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5761,"parent":15,"menu_order":5,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_tec_requires_first_save":true,"_searchwp_excluded":"","_EventAllDay":false,"_EventTimezone":"","_EventStartDate":"","_EventEndDate":"","_EventStartDateUTC":"","_EventEndDateUTC":"","_EventShowMap":false,"_EventShowMapLink":false,"_EventURL":"","_EventCost":"","_EventCostDescription":"","_EventCurrencySymbol":"","_EventCurrencyCode":"","_EventCurrencyPosition":"","_EventDateTimeSeparator":"","_EventTimeRangeSeparator":"","_EventOrganizerID":[],"_EventVenueID":[],"_OrganizerEmail":"","_OrganizerPhone":"","_OrganizerWebsite":"","_VenueAddress":"","_VenueCity":"","_VenueCountry":"","_VenueProvince":"","_VenueState":"","_VenueZip":"","_VenuePhone":"","_VenueURL":"","_VenueStateProvince":"","_VenueLat":"","_VenueLng":"","_VenueShowMap":false,"_VenueShowMapLink":false,"_tribe_blocks_recurrence_rules":"","_tribe_blocks_recurrence_description":"","_tribe_blocks_recurrence_exclusions":"","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-91","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.0 (Yoast SEO v26.0) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>International Students | Golden Gate University<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"At GGU, we&#039;re committed to helping international students find academic and career success. 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