International FAQs

During the 2007-2008 school year, nearly 30 students came from 22 foreign nations to study at Roanoke. Why did they choose Roanoke?  Our wonderful and supportive International Education Office is a great resource for applicants.

Here are answers to some common questions:

What documents do I need to apply?

A completed application; an official secondary transcript (with translation if necessary); official results of at least one of the following standardized test: SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, or appropriate national examinations; a bank statement indicating the resources available to support your education for one year. More about how to apply.

Does Roanoke College offer scholarships to international students?

Yes.  Roanoke College offers partial tuition scholarships based on your academic achievement.  To be eligible, you must first be accepted to the College; at that point, you're automatically considered for an academic scholarship.  You can also compete for additional scholarships ranging from $1,000-full tuition, room & board through our Scholars Program (an on-campus competition with dates in November, February, and March).  You may also apply to the Honors Program, which includes a $1,000 scholarship renewable for four years and the Undergraduate Research Assistants Program (URAP) which offers a $2,000 stipend renewable up to four years.

Can I work on campus to help pay for my education?

Yes. You may work on campus for up to 20 hours per week. Most campus jobs require students to submit an application and be interviewed for a position. Job openings are announced through the Career Services Office.

How much should I expect to spend in a year?

In addition to tuition, room & board and fees, you should keep in mind additional expenses. Additional expenses include an annual estimated cost of $1,000 for text books, $1,000 for transportation and $1,000 for personal expenses.

Do I need health insurance?

Yes. You may purchase health insurance through the College or through an independent insurance carrier. The cost of health insurance for the 2007-2008 school year is $492 (ages 19-23) and $468 (ages 19 and under). All health insurance purchased outside of the College carrier is subject to the approval of the Roanoke College Health Services Office.

Does Roanoke offer ESL courses?

Yes.  International students with a TOEFL score ranging from 68 to 79 (Internet-based) or 190 to 210 (Computer-based) are placed in Language 101, an advanced ESL course typically only offered in the fall semester.  Students with a TOEFL score of 68 (Internet-based) or 213 (Computer-based) and higher take General Studies 101, a freshman writing class.

Is there a minimum TOEFL score?

Yes. We recommend a minimum score of 79 (Internet-based) and 213 (Computer-based) on the TOEFL. Conditional acceptances can be issued for minimum TOEFL scores of 68 (Internet-based) and 190 (Computer-based). Note that Roanoke does offer an advanced ESL class.

Can I transfer credits from my university back home?

Yes, as long as Roanoke offers comparable courses.  When you apply, send us your official university or college transcripts.  And, if possible, a translated academic catalogue with the description of the courses you have taken.

Can I stay on campus during breaks and over the summer?

International students are welcome to stay on-campus during shorter breaks for free.  The shorter breaks include fall break, Thanksgiving break, spring break and Easter weekend.  Generally, international students are encouraged to participate in college trips or live with a home-stay family during the breaks.  During the month-long winter holiday break, international students are not able to stay on campus.  However, an alternative home-stay can be arranged.  There is a housing fee to stay on campus during the summer months.