What You Should Know Before Applying
In partnership with the Global Engagement Office, we strive to support the academic, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of all international students at Beeson.
Approved Degree Programs
Beeson is currently authorized to issue F-1 or J-1 visas to international students who are admitted to the MDiv, MATS and MACC degree programs. We are awaiting governmental approval to issue F-1 and J-1 visas to students admitted to the PhD and ThM degree programs.
Scholarships
Due to the generosity of donors, Beeson Divinity School has several scholarships for international students that cover up to 100% of tuition. Priority consideration is given to Master of Divinity applicants who submit the tier one scholarship essay in their application. International students who apply to other degree programs will also be considered for scholarships.
Residential Status
All international divinity students are required to live in Birmingham, Alabama. Samford does not currently have on-campus housing for graduate students, so international divinity students must live off-campus and procure their own transportation. Beeson has a list of housing recommendations for admitted students. Your admission counselor will discuss housing and transportation with you after you apply. Our tuition scholarships do not cover the costs of housing and transportation.
Financial Considerations
If admitted to Beeson, an international student will need an Affidavit of Financial Support, a requirement of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), to receive an I-20. The affidavit requires students to demonstrate proof of funds (in one or more bank accounts) totaling anywhere from $6,000 to $42,000. The total amount required is determined by scholarship awards, the costs of health insurance and the availability of housing and campus jobs. Therefore, we recommend assembling a team of friends, family and sponsors who can help provide the necessary additional funding before starting an application.
Application Process:
- An official course-by-course transcript of academic work that has been evaluated by World Educational Service from each college or university attended*
- An English Language Proficiency Test Score for anyone whose native language is not English.** These are the following acceptable tests and scores:
- TOEFL (iBT: 90 or above; computer: 232 or above; paper: 575 or above)
- IELTS: 6.5 or above
- Duolingo: 120 or above
*A WES evaluation is not required for degrees completed at U.S. institutions or at institutions with comparable standards to those of the United States. If you are unsure, please ask your admission counselor if a WES evaluation is required for your transcripts.
**TOEFL waivers for applicants whose native language is not English are granted on a case-by-case basis. Determination is based on the student's previous academic record, writing samples and interview.
Additional Application Information
Post-Admission Onboarding Information
Upon being admitted to Beeson Divinity School, you will receive an email requesting the financial documentation necessary for the Global Engagement Office (GEO) to issue an I-20 for you to apply for a visa in order to study at Samford University.
The GEO will review all required documentation, process immigration documents and contact you to set up a shipment for receiving documents and information on how to apply for an F-1 or J-1 student visa.
Getting Ready to Enter the US
- First-time F-1 and J-1 visa applicants must pay the SEVIS fee. Keep a copy of your receipt.
- Make your visa interview appointment with a U.S. Embassy or Consulate to obtain a U.S. visa that will allow you to enter the United States. Here are some government resources to help you prepare for your visa interview.
Pre-Arrival Information
The Pre-Arrival Information sheet outlines some steps you should take to ensure a successful arrival including important dates, housing plans, health forms, etc.
GlobalEngagement Booklet
The GlobalEngagement Booklet will provide you with helpful tips on how to pack, set up your Samford email, locate off-campus housing (if necessary), enroll in insurance, pay your tuition, etc.
Health Services
All new students will receive an email from Med+Proctor with instructions for creating an account and providing your health information. Medical forms must be completed and submitted before arriving at Samford. When you arrive at Samford, the University Health Services office will administer a TB skin test and provide a record of immunization for you to upload to Med+Proctor. International students must have a TB skin test within 72 hours of arrival to campus.
Health Insurance
- Medical Expense (per Accident or Sickness) - $50,000
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment - $10,000
- Medical Evacuation - $50,000
- Repatriation/Return of Mortal Remains - $50,000
Arrival and Immigration Check-In
International students cannot arrive more than 30 days before the program start date as listed on the I- 20. The GEO wants to be the first to welcome and assist you when you arrive. ALL International students are advised to plan their travel so they can attend the mandatory Immigration Check-In Day. GEO provides airport pick-up for all international students who arrive to the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) on the scheduled arrival days between 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CST. In order to receive arrival services, students must complete the Immigration Check-In form located on the Application Status page. If you arrive after 8 p.m., you will need to arrange your own hotel arrangements and transportation for that evening.
