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Your Global Journey
Starts Here

Coming to a new country for college is an adventure – one that should fill your heart with excitement. But we also know it can feel overwhelming at times, with a mix of anticipation, nervousness, and big emotions along the way. The truth is, most college students feel this, and you’re not alone.

At Edgewood University, international students are an integral part of our campus community, bringing diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas that elevate the academic journey for everyone. You’ll find support every step of the way. From navigating the application process to settling into campus life and building friendships with peers from around the world, we’re here to help you feel at home in the United States, in Madison, and on our campus.

With more than 40 undergraduate majors to choose from, Edgewood University gives you the flexibility to explore your interests, embrace your passions, and discover the path that connects your dreams to reality. Whether your focus is on the arts, sciences, business, education, or healthcare, you’ll find programs designed to challenge you academically while providing hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to grow outside the classroom.

Our small class sizes — with an average student-teacher ratio of 13:1 — ensure professors know you personally, class participation isn’t intimidating, and the college experience feels more manageable and personal, especially when you’re far from home.

 

International Students. Real Edgewood Stories.

Choosing the right college is a big deal – especially when you’re coming from halfway around the world. We could share a lot of facts and talk numbers, but we’d rather introduce you to a couple of international students who are now Edgewood University alumni. They’ve navigated an international journey to experience the traditional college life: live in the dorms, build friendships across cultures, and learn how to turn late-night study sessions into big-picture goals.

The Perfect Balance

Students walking on the path
Students in Courtyard

Edgewood University offers the best of both worlds – a peaceful, tree-lined campus overlooking Lake Wingra, just minutes from the energy of downtown Madison. Whether you’re studying by the water, grabbing coffee on Monroe Street, or biking to the Capitol for live music, the city is easy to explore and welcoming to students from around the world. Our campus feels calm and close-knit, while Madison adds culture, opportunity, and excitement for connection beyond the classroom. Together, they offer the balance of academics and opportunity that defines the Edgewood experience.

a person lying on a dock by the water
People walking around downtown Madison

Become an Eagle

Applying to Edgewood is straightforward, and we are here to guide students through the process. International students have a few extra steps to follow – from demonstrating English proficiency to providing financial documentation – but we’ve broken it down into six clear steps, so you’ll always know what’s next. All applicants must submit transcripts or a GED, and some programs like nursing and education have additional requirements. We’ll help you navigate this process so you can focus on what matters most: preparing for your future as an Eagle.

Application Deadline

Fall Semester (August – December): May 1
Spring Semester (January – May): November 1

Steps for International Admission

Step 1: Apply for International Admission

  • Complete the Undergraduate Application for Admissions
  • Submit a color copy of identity/photo page from your passport. If attending with a spouse or child(ren), submit copies of their passports as well. NOTE: You will receive instructions on how to upload photo(s) in the application portal.

Step 2: Provide Proof of English Language Proficiency

Applicants must prove English proficiency by submitting ONE of the following documents:

  • TOEFL (www.toefl.org) score of 61 or higher on the internet-based test or 500 or higher on the paper-based test.
  • IELTS (www.ielts.org) score of 5.5 or higher.
  • PTE Academic ( www.pearsonpte.com) score of 44 or higher.
  • iTEP Academic Plus with score of 3.8 or higher.
  • DuoLingo of 105 or better.
  • Completion of the ELS Level 112 intensive program.
  • A transcript demonstrating successful completion of 1 year of college-level work in English (ESL courses not applicable.)
  • Letter of recommendation from an approved ESL instructor from the Wisconsin English Language Institute (WESLI – www.wesli.com)

Note: Contact the Center for Global Education if you are unsure if your country is exempt.

Step 3: Submit Education Records

If you completed high school (secondary school) outside the United States:

You must submit an evaluation of your academic records from an approved international credential evaluation service. This evaluation provides a U.S. degree equivalency and must convert your grades to a 4.0 GPA (grade point average) scale. Students must have a GPA equivalency of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

Please request a general evaluation from one of the following:

If you completed high school (secondary school) in the United States:
Please have your official high school transcripts sent directly to Edgewood University.

Transfer Students (College or University Coursework)

Transfer applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and have at least 12 transferable college credits. Some academic programs may have additional requirements.

If you have completed college and/or university coursework:

Step 4: Submit Proof of Financial Support

International students requesting an I-20 (F-1 visa status) or a DS-2019 (J-1 visa status) to pursue a traditional undergraduate degree program* must demonstrate the ability to meet Edgewood University’s annual cost of attendance. For the 2026-27 school year, students must be able to demonstrate the ability to pay $59,050 USD per year. Please refer to our Tuition and Fees page for the most up-to-date information.

2026-27 Academic Year (subject to change at any time)

Tuition and Fees (Undergraduate) $38,350
Housing and Meals $14,100
Living Expenses for Dependent(s) $8,000/dependent**
Miscellaneous Expenses (Books, Insurance, Etc.) $6,600
ESTIMATED TOTAL: $59, 050**

*The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is not a traditional undergraduate degree program and follows a different admission process, fee structure, and set of requirements.

**Estimated total does not include living expenses for dependents. Add $8,000 to this total for each dependent.

Financial Document Requirements:

  • Must be original letters or statements from a financial institution with original ink signatures and stamps.
  • Must be written in English or accompanied by official English translation and indicate unit of currency.
  • Must include both the sponsor’s name and student’s name exactly as they appear on the student’s application.
  • Must be dated within six months of application date.
  • If student’s name is not listed on financial document, a signed financial affidavit is required and will be available in the application portal.
  • If financial statements are in the student’s name, no additional documentation is required.

International students should request additional original documents to present to the U.S. Consulate or Embassy when applying for a student visa and be prepared to show documentation to immigration officials when entering the United States.

Although Edgewood University offers on-campus employment opportunities, students should carefully evaluate the full cost of attendance and be prepared to finance their education in its entirety.

Step 5: Enrollment Deposit

Once admitted, international students are required to submit a $300.00 enrollment deposit. The deposit is non-refundable* and will be applied directly toward your first-term tuition.

*Students may receive a refund if their visa application is denied. To request a refund, please submit documentation verifying the visa denial.

Step 6: Merit-Based Scholarships

Admitted international students pursuing a traditional* undergraduate degree program are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships. Eligibility is based on how you are entering the University.

You may be eligible if you are:

  • An international student entering as a first-year (freshmen) student.
    • Eligible for international merit-based scholarships listed below.
  • An international student transferring from an accredited U.S. college or university (with 12 or more transferable credits)
    • Eligible for scholarships listed under “Transfer Students” on the scholarship page.
  • An international student entering as a first-year student who attended a U.S. high school
    • Eligible for “Freshman Academic Scholarship” listed on the scholarship page.

No additional scholarship application is required. To remain eligible, students must maintain continuous, full-time enrollment.

Merit-Based Scholarship Amounts

Scholarship Amount (per year) GPA Range
$15,000/year 4.00 – 3.50
$13,000/year 3.49 – 3.25
$11,000/year 3.24 – 3.00
$9,000/year 2.99 – 2.5

*Traditional undergraduate degree programs do not include the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) which is not eligible for merit-based scholarships.)

students sitting down on curb talking

Center for Global Education

You might be wondering what life at Edgewood looks like after you apply – and who will be there to support you along the way. That’s where the Center for Global Education comes in.

The Center serves as a hub for international students, connecting you to essential resources, campus support, and opportunities to engage in global learning. From immigration guidance and cultural adjustment to study abroad opportunities and campus life, this office is here to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you navigate your journey at Edgewood.

Meet Sara

Woman Smiling

Sara Liang

As the Director of the Center for Global Education and Director of Study Abroad and International Student Services, Dr. Sara Liang is one of the first people international students connect with at Edgewood – and one of the most important. From your first questions about the application process to your arrival on campus, Sara is here to help you navigate each step with confidence.

She brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her role, holding a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership, a master’s degree in International Education, and a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Psychology. Having taught English in Lima, Peru, and participating in study abroad programs in Mexico and Spain, Sara understands firsthand what it’s like to adjust to life in a new country.

At Edgewood, she supports international students through their immigration process, academic transition, and cultural adjustments. She’s a welcoming, approachable presence who helps students feel seen, supported, and – most importantly – at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after I’ve been admitted?

Once you’re admitted, we will guide you through the next steps to help you prepare for your arrival in the United States.

Admitted international students will work with the Center for Global Education for next steps including:

  • Receive instructions to request their I-20 or DS-2019.
  • Prepare for the student visa process, including paying the SEVIS fee and scheduling a visa interview.
  • Register for international student orientation.
  • Receive guidance on housing, arrival planning, and campus life.
  • Get support with course registration and academic advising.
  • Enroll in the required international student health insurance policy.

 

Are international students eligible for financial aid?

International students are not eligible for U.S. federal financial aid programs, including federal grants and loans. Students should plan to provide documentation of financial support and are encouraged to explore private scholarships or sponsorship opportunities.

Can I work on or off campus?

Students maintaining valid F-1 visa status are eligible to work on-campus.  During the fall and spring semesters, employment is limited to a maximum of 20 hours per week.  During official school breaks (winter and summer), students may work more than 20 hours per week, provided they intend to enroll full-time following the break.

Off-campus employment, including internships (paid or unpaid) and practical training opportunities, requires students to maintain valid F-1 visa status, obtain prior authorization authorization from the Center for Global Education, and receive approval from the U.S. Government before work begins.

What if I am an international student interested in pursuing a master’s degree?

Edgewood University offers a variety of master’s degree programs. However, for International students planning to study in the U.S. on a student visa, the Master of Science in Child Life is currently the only graduate program available. If you are interested in learning more about the child life program, please contact our Center for Global Education.

International students may also enroll in Edgewood University’s online graduate programs, which do not require a U.S. student visa. If you are interested in any of these programs, please contact our Graduate Admissions team.

Does Edgewood University have partnerships with international universities?

Yes. Edgewood University partners with universities across Asia, Europe, and South America. The Center for Global Education provides details about each partner institution, including available exchange programs, study abroad opportunities, and academic collaborations.

Learn more about our international partnerships through the Center for Global Education.

 

Can I bring family?

Your spouse and/or unmarried children under the age of 21 may apply for F-2 dependent visas to accompany you during your academic program. A separate dependent I-20 is required for each eligible family member.

You can request dependent I-20 documentation from the Edgewood University Center for Global Education either at the time of admission or at any point during your program.

For additional information about bringing dependents to the United States, please visit the official website of the Department of Homeland Security.

Majors and Minors

What do you want to explore? With 40+ majors and 40+ minors, you can tailor your Edgewood experience to match your curiosity and your big-picture goals.

 

 

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Digital Viewbook

Flip through our digital viewbook and picture yourself right here. Your next chapter? It starts as an Edgewood Eagle!

Edgewood Digital Viewbook 2025

Compete as an Eagle

Edgewood University is proud to compete in NCAA Division III athletics. Discover what it means to be part of a team that leads with heart.

 

 

 

Edgewood Essentials

Everything you need to start planning your academic journey – from housing to the academic calendar – all an easy click away!

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