For International Students

Smith College Business Preparedness Program welcomes international students each year from around the world. You’ll find that our small classes, similar to the undergraduate experience at Smith, offer exceptional learning in an environment where women are taken seriously and inspired to excel as leaders. Smith is located in the Northeast of the United States, a region with some of the highest concentrations of international students in the country.

English Language Proficiency

When applying for a program, please consider both your interest and familiarity with the subject as well as your level of English proficiency. In order to succeed in our challenging programs, you must be proficient enough in English to keep up with classroom lectures, participate in group discussions, read and write English at a fast pace, and communicate and connect with your peers. Your English proficiency is critical to having a positive experience.

English proficiency tests (TOEFL or IELTS) are required for international citizens. They are required for students being instructed in a language other than English. If a student has been instructed in English for two years or less, they are still required to submit English proficiency test results. Students who have been instructed in English for three years or more are not required to submit scores.

Please note that test requirement is based on citizenship, not on where a student attends school.

The following scores are recommended:

• TOEFL: We recommend a minimum TOEFL score of 90
• IELTS: We recommend a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5

Visa Process

All international students admitted to the Business Preparedness program and traveling to the United States must ensure they have a valid passport (valid for at least six months from date of entry) for travel to and from the program for the duration of the program.

B-1 Temporary Business Visitor Visa

Smith College Business Preparedness Program follows the U.S. State Department guidelines, which state that Short Programs participants, if they require a visa, need a tourist visa, not a student visa. Please consult the U.S. State Department to determine whether or not you need a visa. When applying for a visa, applicants should use their acceptance letter as their letter of invitation and remember that the visa application process typically takes several months. Applicants are highly encouraged to start the visa application process as soon as they have been accepted to one of our Short Programs courses. The most recent guidelines can be obtained from the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate or the U.S. State Department.

Applicants from countries covered by the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) will need to go through ESTA: Electronic System for Travel Authorization to apply for authorization to travel to the United States.

Travel Tips

When traveling to the Unites States and Smith College, be sure to carry with you the following items:

• Passport
• B-1 Visa

Please contact Smith College at 413-585-2490 if you face any problems at the border. You may also reach out to Caitlin Szymkowicz, Associate Dean for International Students and Scholars at 413-585-4905.

Budget & Fees

*Fee includes application fee, room, board and all academic supplies.

**Figures may be more or less depending upon personal preferences.