International Applicants: Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Questions?

We hope that we’ve provided all of the answers to any questions you may have about studying at Regis University. Please feel free to contact an Enrollment Counselor with any additional questions you may have.

About Regis University

What degree programs are offered at Regis University College for Professional Studies?

Regis University College for Professional Studies offers a variety of degree programs, both at the undergraduate and graduate level. Degrees in business, computer sciences, social sciences, the humanities, education, and counseling are offered, not to mention a number of unique curriculum specializations and certificate options to complement your degree.

Where is Regis University?

Regis University has called Denver, Colorado its home for more than 100 years, situated right alongside the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. Beautiful mountain views and glimpses of the city skyline surround our main campus, located just 20 minutes northwest of exciting downtown Denver. Additional campuses line the Rocky Mountain Front Range for our students’ convenience.

Where does Regis University rank among other U.S. colleges and universities?

For the 18th consecutive year, Regis University earned a top tier ranking as one of the best colleges and universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.

Is Regis University accredited?

Regis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, one of the most recognized and transferrable accreditations acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education. Regis University is also a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

How many international students attend Regis University?

During the 2009-2010 academic year, Regis University College for Professional Studies hosted 237 international students from 71 different countries.

Are there students attending Regis University from my home country?

Regis University hosts students from countries all over the world including Nepal, India, Thailand, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Uganda, Morocco, France, and Turkey; and we continue to see students arriving from new countries each semester. During the 2009-2010 academic year, Regis University's College for Professional Studies hosted students from 71 different countries.

Feel free to contact your Enrollment Counselor and ask if there are students from your country – whether or not there are, we welcome the background that you’ll bring to our university.

As a new international student, who is the best contact person at Regis University?

Regis University Enrollment Counselors help international students navigate the admissions process. They can help you understand the documentation that is required for admissions; answer any questions you may have about our academic programs, application deadlines, or accelerated learning format (5- and 8-week course schedules); and provide you with additional contacts and resources as needed. You can contact an Enrollment Counselor by phone (1.800.944.7667) Monday-Thursday, 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., and Friday, 7a.m.-5p.m., all times in U.S. Mountain Standard Time. You can also contact an Enrollment Counselor by e-mail at info@regis.edu any time.

For any specific questions or concerns about financing your education and/or Visa regulations, please contact Cathy Gorrell, Director of Registration (cgorrell@regis.edu).

Are there any international student groups/organizations at Regis University?

There are a number of student clubs and organizations available through Regis University’s Office of Student Activities. Many groups were established specifically to promote multicultural awareness and appreciation, including the Asian and Pacific Islander Association, the Black Student Association, the ‘Mi Gente’ Hispanic student organization, and more. In addition to our on-campus student groups, there are organizations off-campus that appeal to our international students, such as Rocky Mountain Friends of Nepal, a popular organization for our Nepali students.

What does it mean that Regis is a “Jesuit University”?

The heritage and tradition of Jesuit education characterize the Regis University experience and mission, which encourages men and women of all ages to take leadership roles and to make a positive impact in a changing society. By fostering the continual search for truth, values, and a just existence, we are committed to encouraging each student to explore, dream, and discover a lifetime of personal and professional opportunities.

Admission

What are the admissions requirements for international students?

The documentation required for international student admission depends on your specific status and/or visa type. In general, the minimum admissions requirements are listed on our International Student Admission Guidelines page and include the Regis admission application, a copy of your permanent resident card or visa, your official transcript/credential evaluations, and your English proficiency (TOEFL) scores. Additional documentation that may be required includes your financial statement (and Affidavit of Support if necessary), an International Supplemental Application (required for F and J Student Visas), copies of any previously issued I-20s (for transfer students), and your SEVIS transfer form (again, for transfer students only). Your completed application and required documents need to be submitted 30 days prior to your degree program’s standard application deadline. If you have questions about what documentation is required under your specific status and/or visa type, please contact an Enrollment Counselor.

What is an I-20 and an F-1 Student Visa?

The I-20 is the document that will be issued from Regis University that links you specifically to our university for your studies. The F-1* is your student entry visa issued from the U.S. Consulate in your home country that requires that you are:

  1. An academic student
  2. Attending your university as a full-time student (12 credit hours per 16-week period for undergraduate students; 6 credit hours per 16-week period for graduate students)
  3. Campus-based (not an online student)
  4. Not working with the exception of permitted employment opportunities such as Work Study, Curricular Practical Training, or Optional Practical Training

*If you’re on a J-1 Exchange Student Visa, please e-mail Cathy Gorrell, Director of Registration (cgorrell@regis.edu) for further instruction on obtaining your I-20.

How do I obtain an F-1 Student Visa and an I-20?

To obtain your initial F-1* Student Visa, your first step will be to apply to Regis University. Once you are accepted, Regis will issue your I-20 and mail it to you. Along with your I-20, Regis will send you tips and suggestions for your visit to the U.S. Consulate in your country, as you will need to set up an appointment with your local U.S. Consulate for F-1 approval. (An appointment is almost always required.)

*If you’re on a J-1 Exchange Student Visa, please e-mail Cathy Gorrell, Director of Registration (cgorrell@regis.edu) for further instruction on obtaining your I-20.

Do all required forms/documents need to be submitted at the same time?

Though it is not required, Regis University strongly recommends that you submit your documents all together as promptly as possible. Your completed application and all required documents need to be received 30 days prior to your degree program’s standard application deadline in order to ensure timely response and processing from our admissions team. To determine the specific set of documents required for your admission application package, please contact an Enrollment Counselor.

What is considered an “official” document (when official documentation is specified/required)?

Official documentation* must be sent directly from a third-party organization and/or must arrive in a specially sealed envelope. For example, Regis University requires official transcripts from previously attended institutions. Regis accepts official transcripts that:
  1. Arrive directly from one of the approved transcript evaluation services
  2. Arrive in a sealed envelope (i.e. bearing the official, unbroken university seal). This transcript must have been issued within the past year.

*Regis University requires that the following documents be submitted as originals:

  1. TOEFL and/or GMAT scores
  2. Academic transcripts
  3. Financial Statement (if required)

Can I submit photocopies of my documents?

For certain documents among your application package, you may be permitted to submit legible faxes and/or photocopies. Contact an Enrollment Counselor to determine what types of documents are required for your specific application package and how you will be permitted to submit them. Please note that scanning in and e-mailing your documentation is not a secure method of transmitting the sensitive information required for admission.

Does Regis University accept applications from international F1 transfer students?

Regis University accepts international transfer student applications. In addition to the minimum required documents for the standard international admission process, international transfer students must submit the additional following documents wherever applicable:
  • Transcripts from institutions attended
  • Visa/I-94 copy
  • Copies of all I-20s previously issued
  • SEVIS transfer form

Contact your Enrollment Counselor to discuss your particular circumstances and identify the documents you’ll be required to submit.

What are the TOEFL requirements at Regis University?

Regis University CPS offers our degree programs in 5- and 8-week accelerated terms, so strong English writing and speaking skills are required to be successful. The minimum accepted TOEFL scores are:

  • TOEFL computer total score of 213 and Essay (TWE) score of 5.0
  • TOEFL Internet total score of 82 with minimum scores of: 24 Writing, 20 Speaking, 22 Reading, and 16 Listening

These score requirements are firm, though there are certain circumstances where English proficiency requirements may be waived – find out if you qualify.

Does Regis University accept institutional TOEFL scores?

We are sorry, but Regis University does not currently accept the institutional TOEFL. Only official TOEFL scores are accepted for English Proficiency.

Does Regis University accept IELTS test scores instead of TOEFL?

Regis University will only accept official TOEFL scores as proof of English Proficiency.

Does Regis offer an English as a Second Language (ESL) program?

Regis University CPS does not currently offer an ESL program. Therefore, official TOEFL scores are required as proof of English Proficiency.

Do I have to take the ACT/SAT for undergraduate admission?

ACT/SAT scores are not required for undergraduate admission.

Do I have to take the GRE/GMAT for graduate admission?

GRE/GMAT scores are not required for graduate admission. However, if you have taken the GMAT and are intending to study within the MBA program, the GMAT can be a substitute for the TOEFL. Students must score a minimum of 3.5 on the written portion of the GMAT exam in order to meet Regis University CPS’s English proficiency requirements.

Can I attend Regis University CPS as an online student

If you wish to study abroad in the United States on an F1 Student Visa, you are required to attend your classes on campus. Regis University is not permitted to issue an I-20 to an online student, and you are not eligible for an F1 Student Visa if you choose an online course of study. However, if your intention is to earn your degree as an online student from outside of the United States, it is possible to earn your Regis University degree entirely online. You will need to submit your admission application, English proficiency documents, transcript evaluation information, and the international exception payment policy form in order to complete your application package. Contact your Enrollment Counselor for more information.

When is the application deadline?

Regis University CPS offers degree programs in accelerated 5- and 8-week terms, so we offer a number of initial start dates throughout the course of the academic year. To determine your application deadline, you must:
  1. Choose your degree program, as deadlines vary by program.
  2. Choose your start date off of the academic calendar.
  3. Contact your Enrollment Counselor to determine your deadline. Application deadlines for international students are 30 days prior to our standard application deadlines.

How and when will Regis University notify me of my admission status after I’ve applied?

Undergraduate Applicants: Once you have submitted all necessary documentation required for your complete admission application package and an admission decision has been made, you will receive an e-mail notifying you of your admission status, as well as a letter in the mail. The turn-around time between your application submittal and notification of your admission decision is largely dependent on the degree program you are applying for.

Graduate Applicants: Once your application package is complete and all documents are on file, you will receive an e-mail to schedule your admission interview (wherever applicable). If you are chosen to be admitted into your program of choice, you will receive e-mail notification of your admission status, as well as a letter in the mail. The turn-around time between your interview/committee review of your application and the admission decision is largely dependent on the degree program you are applying for.

ALL APPLICANTS: If you have any concerns or wish to check in on your admission status at any point in time, please contact an Enrollment Counselor. Additionally, if you are at any point concerned that your admission application package is not complete, Enrollment Counselors can assist you in ensuring you have submitted all necessary documentation.

What is my next step after being admitted to Regis University?

Once you have been admitted to Regis University, you will be contacted either by an Enrollment Counselor, Academic Advisor, or department faculty member to assist you with registering for your first class. If you have questions about this process or any other preparations you need to make once admitted, please contact an Enrollment Counselor.

Tuition

How much does tuition cost at Regis?

Regis University's College for Professional Studies tuition rates are calculated per credit hour and vary across individual degree programs. The tables below detail classroom and online tuition rates for the current academic year.

CLASSROOM TUITION SCHEDULE BY CREDIT HOUR: 2012 - 2013 ACADEMIC YEAR

Programs Tuition
Undergraduate Programs (Except for Undergraduate Education) $410
Undergraduate Education Programs $390
Master of Science in Accounting $780
Master of Science in Database Technology $660
Master of Science in Software Engineering $660
Master of Science in Systems Engineering $660
Master of Science in Information Assurance $660
Master of Science in Information Technology Management $660
Master of Science in Organization Leadership $690
Master of Business Administration $780
Master of Nonprofit Management $460
Master of Education $465
Master of Arts $450
Master of Arts in Counseling $550
Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy $550
Master of Science in Criminology $515


ONLINE TUITION SCHEDULE BY CREDIT HOUR: 2012 - 2013 ACADEMIC YEAR

Programs Tuition
Undergraduate Programs (Except for Undergraduate Education) $460
Undergraduate Education Programs $390
Master of Science in Accounting $810
Master of Science in Database Technology $690
Master of Science in Software Engineering $690
Master of Science in Systems Engineering $690
Master of Science in Information Assurance $690
Master of Science in Information Technology Management $690
Master of Science in Software Engineering and Database Technologies (online only) $690
Master of Science in Organization Leadership $690
Master of Business Administration $810
Master of Nonprofit Management $495
Master of Education $465
Master of Science in Criminology $550

When will I need to pay my tuition?

As long as you have submitted an International Exception Payment Policy form*, you may pay your tuition whenever you register at any time from the beginning of the registration period through the end of the first week of the academic period, commonly referred to as the “add/drop” week. Tuition payments must be received by the end of add/drop week at the absolute latest. For assistance in determining this time frame for yourself, please contact an Enrollment Counselor.

*The function of the International Exception Payment Policy form is to allow you a longer time-period to pay for your tuition. If you choose not to submit an International Exception Payment Policy form, you will be required to pay your tuition prior to registering for each course. Please contact an Enrollment Counselor with any questions you may have about this form.

What types of payment are accepted?

You may pay:
  • ONLINE with check* or credit card. Log on to http://webadvisor.regis.edu and select the “Make a Payment” link in the Registration Invoice or Statement of Account screens. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express cards are accepted.
  • IN PERSON at any campus with check* or money order, or with one of the credit cards listed above. Please write your Regis student identification number or Social Security number (if applicable) on your check or money order.
    (Cash is not accepted, except at the main campus Cashier’s office.)
  • BY MAIL to Regis University, P.O. Box 173861, Denver, CO 80217-3861
  • BY PHONE with Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express. Call the Student Service Line at 303.458.7420 or 1.800.568.8932. Payments can be made Monday-Friday, 6:00am-10:00pm or Saturday 8:00am-3:00pm. All times are given in U.S. Mountain Standard Time.

*For helpful information on opening and setting up a U.S. bank account as an international student, visit http://www.internationalstudent.com/international-financial-aid/opening-bank-account.shtml.

Work-Study Opportunities and Scholarships

Does Regis offer a Work-Study program for international students?

Regis University offers non-federally funded Work-Study employment to international students in the state of Colorado. These Work-Study opportunities are highly competitive and are strongly regulated, as Work-Study should not be utilized as a primary source of income for international students. For more information on employment opportunities and regulations, please contact Cathy Gorrell, Director of Registration, cgorrell@regis.edu; or Natascha Ambrose, Student Employment Coordinator, at nambrose@regis.edu.

What is CPT, and does Regis University offer it?

Curricular Practical Training (CPT), as defined by the Immigration and Naturalization Service, is employment that is an integral or important part of the student’s curriculum. Examples of this type of employment include internships, cooperative education, and any other type of required internship or practice that is offered by sponsoring employers through a cooperative agreement with Regis.

CPT must be an integral part of your curriculum for you to be eligible to apply. For more information, contact Cathy Gorrell, Director of Registration, at cgorrell@regis.edu

What is OPT, and does Regis University offer it?

Optional Practical Training (OPT), as defined by the Immigration and Naturalization Service, is training that provides international students with an opportunity to gain actual employment experience in their major fields of study. This type of employment must be authorized both by the Regis International Student Services Department and by U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Services. Training can occur after degree completion.

OPT is highly competitive and strongly regulated. Please contact Cathy Gorrell, Director of Registration, for more information at cgorrell@regis.edu.

What other financial aid resources and scholarships?

There are a number of organizations and resources for international student aid on the Internet. Never provide any personal or payment information while searching for scholarships, as these are likely scams. We have provided a list of reputable resources outside of Regis University below:

    Living and Studying in the United States

    What should I bring when traveling to the U.S.? What should I leave home?

    Beyond any items of personal necessity, it is of course essential that you travel with all of the appropriate documentation and identification required for travel and your time in the United States. Additionally, we recommend that you bring enough money to sustain yourself until you can make arrangements for accessing your funds through a United States bank account.

    Use common sense when packing for your stay in the United States. If you can easily purchase any of the items on your packing list in the United States, we recommend that you do so to save room in your luggage for the essentials. Additionally, you can obtain a booklet on prohibited items to travel with to the United States from your local U.S. Consulate or embassy.

    For more information on what to bring and not to bring, feel free to ask Cathy Gorrell, Director of Registration, at cgorrell@regis.edu or visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.

    What is Denver like? (Climate, entertainment, culture, etc.)

    Denver, Colorado is an exciting metropolitan area surrounded by the adventure and serenity of the Rocky Mountains. With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, less than 8-15 inches of annual precipitation, and a mild four-season climate, residents enjoy Denver’s outdoor sports and recreational activities just as much as the local arts and entertainment offerings.

    Visit http://www.denver.org for information about Denver and its surrounding areas.

    What types of public transportation are available in Denver?

    As an international student at Regis University, you’ll be able to navigate your way around Denver with ease. First of all, Denver International Airport (DIA) is conveniently located on the northeast corner of the metro area. Once you’ve arrived, Denver’s public transportation provider, Regional Transportation District (RTD), offers convenient and affordable options for getting around the city throughout the duration of your time in Denver. The extensive and accessible bus routes available combined with our own Light Rail system, a network of commuter trains that transport residents across the metro area, provide our residents with the regular transportation needs they desire at reasonable and affordable rates. Taxi services are also available.

    How would I go about purchasing and owning a car in the United States?

    Though owning your own car is not necessary when studying at Regis University, some students may prefer to, and we understand that. For more information on automobile ownership in the United States, as well as information on obtaining your Colorado driver’s license, please visit the Automobiles section of our International Student Handbook.

    How do I apply for a social security number in the United States?

    The Regis University Office of International Student Services is available to assist you through the process of obtaining your social security number in the United States. In order to obtain a social security card, international students are required to show proof of employment (Work-Study, CPT, or OPT), which can be in the form of a letter from a school official verifying the student’s employment. Along with the proof of employment letter, international students should bring their passport, their I-94, and I-20 IDs to the local Social Security Office to submit their application. Social Security Cards are usually received within three-to-four weeks after receipt of complete application and are active until the student’s I-20 expires. Students should apply at the following Social Security Office:

    1845 Sherman Street
    Denver, Colorado
    Phone: 1-800-772-1213

    Where do I live when I go to Regis? Is international student housing available on-campus?

    Though Regis University does have limited on-campus housing available, there is no specific housing reserved for international students. The majority of Regis University CPS students live off-campus, as many apartments and houses are available for rent in close proximity to the main university campus. Here are a few resources for finding your housing:
    • Consult the Regis University Residence Life Office at 303.458.4991 – they can inform you of any on-campus housing opportunities (if applicable) and provide you with off-campus housing listings.
    • Contact Apartment Finders International, a free apartment locating service, at 303.759.9901 or 303.452.2211.
    • Denver Post Classifieds
    • Apartments.com
    • ApartmentBook.com
    • Consult other online Apartment Finder Resources for Denver

    Are there any international communities or groups for certain cultures in Denver near Regis?

    With its robustly diverse population, the residents and visitors within the Denver metro area truly bring together and celebrate the traditions of many cultural backgrounds. There are a number of cultures with significant prominence in the area, and there are many groups and events that recognize, celebrate, and honor multiculturalism in Denver.

    We invite you to discover just a few of the multicultural organizations and events available to the Denver population:

    How do I obtain health insurance while in the United States?

    International students enrolled with Regis University College for Professional Studies are required to have health insurance. Student health insurance is available through Regis University, and there are several external sources you can research as well to ensure you are finding the best rates possible for your own personal situation. Here are a few external insurance providers/resources to begin your research:

    If you are unsure of the validity behind any other externally provided health insurance options, please e-mail the Regis University Office of Student Life at stulife@regis.edu for assistance.

    How do I get a cell phone in the United States?

    Whether you want to keep in touch with family and friends back home or to be able to talk with your professor, friends, or contacts in Denver; communication will be important to you while studying at Regis University. There are several ways to purchase cell phones and calling cards that are specifically intended for international communications, but depending on your own individual needs, purchasing a United States cell phone with international capabilities may be the best option. Consider how you intend to use your cell phone and conduct your research based on your own individual needs before making a purchase. Here are some common cell phone carriers used in the Denver area: