Prospective Students

International students applying to undergraduate programs should review application requirements, testing policies, and deadlines through the Rutgers–Newark Undergraduate Admissions website.

You’ll find information about:

• Application requirements and deadlines
• English language proficiency and testing policies
• Supporting documents

Learn more here: Undergraduate Admissions (Newark)

Graduate and professional programs manage admissions individually. International applicants should consult both the Rutgers–Newark Graduate Admissions site and their intended program’s website for specific requirements.

Includes:

• Master’s and doctoral programs
• Professional programs across Rutgers–Newark schools

To browse existing certification and degree programs, see the Graduate Admissions site: https://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/explore/explore-programs

View specific required information for International Applicants here: https://gradstudy.rutgers.edu/information/international-students

International students interested in the law program should review admissions requirements directly through the Rutgers Law School.

Already have your Law Degree but are looking to attain one in the U.S.? Please see information regarding the Law School's accelerated J.D degree program: Foreign-Trained Lawyer Program

Discover each of the main Rutgers-Newark campus schools and their unique requirements. 

• School of Arts & Sciences–Newark
• Rutgers Business School–Newark
• School of Criminal Justice
• School of Public Affairs and Administration

If you are transferring your SEVIS record to Rutgers–Newark from another U.S. institution:

You will need to:

• Request a SEVIS transfer from your current school
• Submit a Rutgers transfer-in form
• Ensure your record is released before your program start date

Transferring students must maintain continuous status and coordinate closely with both institutions.

Learn more about transferring your SEVIS record:
https://global.rutgers.edu/international-students/transfer

Begin by submitting your application through the appropriate admissions office:

• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate & Professional Admissions
• Law or other specialized programs

Be sure to review application deadlines, required materials, and English proficiency requirements (if applicable). Once admitted, you’ll receive next steps to continue the process.

After admission, you’ll need to upload key documents to receive your immigration paperwork:

• Financial Certification (required for I-20 or DS-2019 issuance)
• Copy of your passport (must be valid)
• Academic records (if not already submitted)

Financial documentation is required to demonstrate that you can support your tuition, living expenses, and other costs while studying in the U.S.

Once your documents are reviewed and approved, you will receive:

• Form I-20 (for F-1 students)
• Form DS-2019 (for J-1 students)

These documents are essential for applying for your student visa and entering the United States. Be sure to review them carefully for accuracy as soon as you receive them.

With your immigration documents in hand, you can begin preparing for your arrival:

• Pay the SEVIS fee
• Schedule and attend your visa interview
• Receive your visa and confirm travel eligibility
• Make travel arrangements to the U.S.

You should also begin preparing important items to bring with you and review U.S. entry requirements before departure.

After arriving at Rutgers University–Newark, you must complete required onboarding steps to activate and maintain your immigration status:

☐ Complete your immigration check-in process
☐ Submit required documents through the Rutgers Global portal
☐ Attend International Student Orientation
☐ Connect with an advisor if needed

Orientation will introduce you to campus resources, immigration responsibilities, and opportunities to get involved in the Rutgers–Newark community.

The F-1 visa is the most common visa type for international students studying in the United States. It is issued to students who are admitted to a full-time academic program, such as a degree at Rutgers University–Newark.

With an F-1 visa, you are expected to:

• Maintain full-time enrollment each semester
• Make normal academic progress toward your degree
• Follow employment regulations (such as on-campus work or approved training opportunities like CPT/OPT)

You will receive a Form I-20, which is required to apply for your visa and enter the U.S.

The J-1 visa is designed for students participating in exchange programs or specific educational partnerships, often funded or supported by a government, university, or sponsoring organization.

With a J-1 visa, you may:

• Participate in structured exchange programs or short-term study
• Receive funding or sponsorship from an external organization
• Engage in academic and cultural exchange opportunities

You will receive a Form DS-2019, which is used to apply for your visa and enter the U.S. J-1 students must also follow specific program rules set by their sponsor, and some may be subject to additional requirements, such as the two-year home residency rule.

Spouses and children of F-1 or J-1 students may accompany them to the U.S. under F-2 or J-2 dependent status, with specific regulations.

Dependents will receive their own I-20 or DS-2019 and must follow visa regulations. Some J-2 dependents may be eligible to apply for work authorization.

Learn more: https://global.rutgers.edu/international-students/dependents

Non-Immigrant Visa Students

Students studying on visas such as F-1 or J-1 must maintain full-time enrollment and comply with federal regulations throughout their academic journey.

Refugees & Immigrant Visa Holders

Students with immigrant or refugee status may have different pathways and access to resources, including financial aid eligibility and residency considerations. Our office provides individualized guidance to support your transition and success.