International Admissions

Send Evaluation of Credentials

If your document is in a language other than English, you must submit a certified English translation. All international applicants must also submit an evaluation of their foreign credentials showing the U.S. equivalent of any coursework taken outside of the United States. Bowie State accepts evaluations from organizations that are current members of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services. Some options include:

• SpanTran Pathways
• World Education Services
• Educational Credential Evaluators

Submit Proof of English Proficiency

If your native language or language of instruction is not English, you must provide proof of English proficiency. 

Provide Financial Documents

To obtain an F-1 student visa as an international student, you will need the OIESS to issue you an I-20.

Please send the following documents to internationaloffice@bowiestate.edu :

1) Admission Letter

1. A copy of your official admission letter from Bowie State University.

2) Contact Information

1. Your current home address and phone number.

3) Passport Identification Page

1. A copy of the biographical page of your valid passport (the page that shows your name, photo, and date of birth).

4) Proof of Financial Support
You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your studies and living expenses. The required minimum amount is $30,000. Acceptable documentation includes:

1. A recent bank statement (issued within the last 6 months) from a traditional checking or savings account. Proof of income letters, pay stubs/statements, or non-liquid assets (retirement accounts, property, land, etc.) will not be accepted.
2. If your statement is in a foreign currency, the conversion amount must be at least $30,000 based on current exchange rates.
3. If the student has a dependent accompanying them in the United States, the financial support documentation should reflect an additional $3,000 for each dependent.

5) Sponsor Information (If Applicable): If someone else other than you is funding your education:

1. A support letter stating the sponsor’s full name; relationship with the student (e.g., mother, uncle); the total amount they are pledging to support. Please see Bowie State University's financial support form here.

Financial support can come from multiple sponsors. For example, if a student has only $5,000 in personal funds, they can include additional sponsors, such as $15,000 from their mother and $10,000 from their uncle, along with the relevant bank statements.

Once your documents are submitted in full, they will be reviewed by our Designated School Officials (DSOs). You will either receive your newly issued I-20 or we will contact you with follow-up questions if additional information is needed.

Please Note: If you are a prospective transfer student already in the United States, we will need a few extra documents from you. Please contact us at internationaloffice@bowiestate.edu after you submit the above information.