For International Students

Smith College Precollege Programs 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 northeastern region of the United States, an area with some of the highest concentrations of international students anywhere in the country.

International students are welcome to apply to any precollege program offerings. Financial aid is available. Smith Precollege does not offer financial support for travel expenses. Please be aware of any travel restrictions that may be in place in your country and the United States before applying.

Especially For International Students

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 (Duolingo, 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.

Required Passport

All international students admitted to the precollege 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.

Visas

Participation in Smith Precollege Programs does not constitute the basis for securing a student visa (F1). Students in the program should be able to obtain a Visitor (B) visa, because the program comprises a short recreational course of study and is not for credit toward a degree or academic certificate. Information on the U.S. policy on short periods of recreational study is available on the U.S. Department of State website.

Student and Exchange Visitor Program FAQs

Listing of U.S. Consulates

Global Participation

In our 2023 season, 32% of our program participants were from outside the U.S. Here are some of the places they called home.

Taiwain

5 students

China

63 students

Ukraine

1 student

Canada

9 students

Greece

5 students

Brazil

1 student

Kazakhstan

4 students

Hong Kong

2 students