Prospective International Student FAQ

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How many international students are at Vassar?

Vassar boasts an international community of more than 300 students from over 60 countries. Each international and overseas student is another contributor to the overall Vassar community.

Who is considered a foreign or international student?

For purposes of applying for admission to Vassar or for financial aid, anyone who is not a citizen or a permanent resident of the United States is considered a foreign or international student.

My parents and/or I have applied for a green card (permanent resident status) and expect to receive it by the time I enroll as a new first-year student. Do I still have to apply as a foreign student?

Until you actually receive your green card and a permanent resident number from the U.S. Immigration Service, you must apply for admission and aid as a foreign citizen.

Am I considered a first-year applicant or a transfer applicant?

Any student who is currently enrolled in their final year of secondary school (high school), or any student who has completed secondary school but has not begun studies at the university level is eligible to apply to Vassar as a first-year student. However, students who have enrolled at a college/university after the completion of secondary school are not eligible to apply as first-year student applicants. Current university-level students must apply as transfer candidates. International transfer students are not eligible for financial aid.

How can I learn more about applying to Vassar as an international student?

You can learn more about the application process, testing, and requirements for international applicants on the Office of Admission website.

Does Vassar offer financial aid to international students?

Vassar meets the full demonstrated need of all admitted students who apply for financial aid at the time of their admission application. We are need aware when reviewing applications from international students. Students who are neither U.S. citizens nor permanent residents who wish to be considered for financial aid at any time during their years at Vassar must apply for aid at the same time that they apply for admission. Students admitted without financial aid in the first year are not eligible to receive Vassar funding during their years at the College. Financial aid is not available for international transfer applicants.

How many international students apply for financial assistance?

Each year, over 850 international students apply for admission and financial assistance, and 35–45 are admitted with funding. For those foreign citizens with financial need who enrolled in the class of 2023, the average scholarship was approximately $55,195, plus a Vassar student loan of $3,500, and eligibility for a campus job earning up to $3,000. Each individual student’s financial aid package will depend on their family’s financial circumstances.

Is there special advising for international students?

Vassar’s Office of International Services provides assistance to all foreign students including new student orientation and helps them through the visa process. In addition, there is a student-run organization for International students (VISA) to help them integrate into the Vassar community and a committee of administrators that meets regularly to address international students’ concerns.

Will Vassar award credit for my advanced program of study?

Students who have earned scores of 4 or 5 on an AP exam are eligible for advanced placement credit. International Baccalaureate scores of 5, 6, or 7 on higher-level exams are also awarded credit. In the same manner, Vassar grants credit for high scores on certain foreign advanced programs of study such as the GCE A-levels, the German Abitur, the French Baccalaureate, etc.

Where is Vassar located?

Vassar College is located in Poughkeepsie, NY, in the Hudson River Valley, 75 miles (120 km) north of New York City. The population of the greater Poughkeepsie area is about 100,000.

How accessible is Poughkeepsie?

Vassar is accessible from all the major airports in the greater New York City area, as well as those in Newburgh and White Plains, New York. The Metro North commuter train also provides regular rail service between New York City and Poughkeepsie.

What is the weather like?

Poughkeepsie weather is much like the temperate climate of New York City. The average temperature in the winter months is about 30ºF (-1ºC), and in the summer months about 80ºF (26ºC). We are not located in a “snow-belt.” However, moderate snowfall is the norm during the winter.