Welcome! We’re delighted that you’re considering FTC Northern for your education. Students from around the world enrich our community with diverse perspectives, experiences, and cultural traditions. We’re committed to supporting you through every step of the admission process and throughout your time at FTC Northern.
Why Study at FTC Northern
- Academic Excellence: Rigorous programs in the arts and sciences with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship
- Beautiful Location: Situated in Middletown, New York, just 90 minutes from New York City, offering both natural beauty and access to world-class cultural resources
- Dedicated Support: Our Office of International Services provides comprehensive assistance with visa matters, cultural adjustment, and academic success
- Diverse Community: Join students from around the world in a welcoming and close-knit community
Admission Requirements for International Students
In addition to our standard admission requirements, international students must provide the following:
English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 73
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
- Two years of study at an English-speaking high school
- Online English Proficiency Interview with our admissions team
Financial Documentation
You’ll need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for your program of study. This includes:
- Bank statements or financial guarantee letters
- Sponsor affidavit (if receiving financial support from a sponsor)
- Documentation showing funds covering at least one year of expenses
For detailed cost information, see our Tuition and Fees page and Estimated Cost of Attendance.
Application Process and Timeline
The entire process from application to arrival typically takes 3 months. We recommend applying at least 3-4 months before your intended start date to allow adequate time for visa processing. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Submit Your Applications
Complete and submit:
- Program application and processing fee
- Financial aid application (if applicable)
Step 2: Demonstrate English Proficiency
Submit your English proficiency test scores. This is our preferred method of demonstrating proficiency. For students who do not have any English test scores, you may schedule an online English proficiency interview with our admissions team.
Step 3: Application Follow-Up
We’ll notify you within 5 business days of receiving your application if any documents are missing or if we need to schedule your English proficiency interview.
Step 4: Receive Your Acceptance Decision
You’ll receive notification of your acceptance decision typically within 1 month of us receiving a complete application package.
Step 5: I-20
Upon your acceptance, we’ll send you an application for your I-20. After you return the completed form with supporting documentation, our Office of International Services will send you your official I-20 so you can apply for your F-1 student visa.
Step 6: Review Your I-20
Carefully review your I-20 to ensure all information is correct. If you need any changes, notify us immediately.
Step 7: Apply for Your F-1 Visa
This process typically takes 1-3 months to complete. You’ll need to:
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online
- Complete the DS-160 form online and pay the application fee
- Schedule your visa interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country
- Attend your visa interview with required documents
- Wait for your visa decision
Step 8: Make Travel Plans
Once you receive your F-1 visa, you can arrive in the United States up to 30 days before your program start date. We recommend arriving at least a week early to get settled, complete orientation, and adjust to your new environment.
Arriving at FTC Northern
Before You Arrive
- Arrange housing (all incoming Freshman must live on campus)
- Purchase required health insurance (you’ll receive information about this)
- Plan your transportation from the airport to campus
- Review orientation materials and complete any pre-arrival requirements
Upon Arrival
- Set up your student ID, campus accounts, and other essentials
- Attend all mandatory orientation sessions
- Check in with the Office of International Services
- Complete registration and enrollment
We look forward to welcoming you to FTC Northern!
