All instruction is conducted in English. Proof of English language proficiency is required using one the following methods: TOEFL test results; the minimum accepted score is 525 (paper-based), 197 (computerbased), and 69 (internet-based) IELTS test results: the minimum accepted score is 6.5 for undergraduate and 7.0 for graduate students. Unless the native language of the international student is English, and the College can confirm the native language, then the student is not required to take the TOEFL or IELTS test. There is no limited amount of times a student can take the tests; test scores are valid for two (2) years after the test date. The official scores becomes part of the permanent student record once the student has enrolled with the College. Students may also waive the English proficiency tests (TOEFL and IELTS) if students can provide evidence of receiving at least four (4) years educational training in English language. Students will then take USV’s placement exam to assess competency in English.

International Students

Global Player Entry Unlocked

Welcome! ¡Bienvenido! 환⁠영! 歡⁠迎! स्वा⁠ग⁠त!

The University of Silicon Valley proudly welcomes international students from around the world. Our campus is nestled in the heartbeat of Silicon Valley, California where students enjoy vibrant and diverse global communities to make you feel right at home.

We’re ready to make your academic dreams come true. Get ready to “Press Start” on making USV your home away from home!

The University of Silicon Valley welcomes on-campus and fully online international students and is accredited by the WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Getting Started at USV as an International Student

Press Start and Embark on Your International Quest at USV

To secure your spot in USV’s legendary realm, international adventurers must first finish the application process. Get started today in just four easy steps:

Complete the online application.

Connect with an Admissions Advisor.

Submit all of your supporting documents.

See where you rank in our placement assessments.

Once you complete and submit the first part of the online application, you will be contacted by one of our dedicated Admissions Advisors. Our advisors are trained to guide you through what supplemental documents you need to submit for you to complete your full application. They can also answer any of your questions regarding international student resources, campus and student life, student orientation, and travel logistics.

Documents Required

Initiating Your Quest as an International Player at USV Starts Here

Official School Transcripts

An official transcript from each secondary and college attended is required. Applicants must have transcripts translated, if applicable, and evaluated by a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE).

Official transcripts should be mailed to:

University of Silicon Valley
Attn: Registrar’s Office
191 Baypoint Parkway
San Jose, CA 95134

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your admissions advisor or Designated School Official.

Current Valid Passport

USV encourages all international applicants to have their passport valid for at least six months after the proposed date of entry into the United States. Having the validity of your passport with an expiration date of more than six months may prevent problems if you need to travel unexpectedly.

Check out this helpful fact sheet for more information. If you have any questions related to your visa application, please do not hesitate to contact your Designated School Official.

Financial Support Form

The financial documents you submit allow USV to verify the availability of adequate funding for tuition, fees and living expenses for the duration of your studies, a requirement of the U.S. government.

Financial Support Form

English Proficiency

All instruction is conducted in English. Proof of English language proficiency is required using one the following methods:

TOEFL test results; the minimum accepted score is 525 (paper-based), 197 (computerbased), and 69 (internet-based)
IELTS test results: the minimum accepted score is 6.5 for undergraduate and 7.0 for graduate students.
Unless the native language of the international student is English, and the College can confirm the native language, then the student is not required to take the TOEFL or IELTS test.

There is no limited amount of times a student can take the tests; test scores are valid for two (2) years after the test date. The official scores becomes part of the permanent student record once the student has enrolled with the College.

Students may also waive the English proficiency tests (TOEFL and IELTS) if students can provide evidence of receiving at least four (4) years educational training in English language. Students will then take USV’s placement exam to assess competency in English.

Intent to Transfer Form

For international students planning to transfer to the University of Silicon Valley, the process is fairly straightforward as long as you maintain your F-1 student status. Download the Intent to Transfer Form and an Admissions Advisor will assist you through the process.

Preparing for Arrival

Papers, Please

Once you are accepted into a degree program at the University of Silicon Valley and have paid the $500 enrollment fee ($500 towards F-1 Visa) you will be issued a Form I-20.

Form I-20: The Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (F-1) Student Status is a non-immigration document authorized by the US Government (SEVP) to be issued to you by the College when you are granted admission.

Once you have met with the Embassy in your home country you must contact USV’s Designated School Official (DSO) to notify the school of your travel arrangements to the United States. You can do so by contacting the DSO at +1-800-264-7955, or by email at dso@usv.edu.

With this Visa, students are required to maintain a 2.0 GPA while at USV and mandated to remain full time.

To find more information about Student Visas, visit the following web sites:

Settling in, Welcome to USV!

Directions to Campus

Under your F-1 Visa status you are able to arrive in the United States up to 30 days before the start of your academic program. You are required to be at the university on the date designated by the Admissions Office (Move-in day, Orientation, first day of classes, etc.).

There are three international airports near San Jose, CA. The Mineta San Jose International Airport is 3 miles from the university. The San Francisco International Airport and the Oakland International Airport are about 30 miles from the College.

Once you arrive at the airport you will be required to provide your Visa, passport and Form I-20. USV is accessible from both airports via public transportation. Visit www.vta.org for routes and schedules. If you are arriving in the United States before your housing contract begins you are required to find your own accommodations.

International Student Checklist

Press Start and Embark on Your International Quest at USV

Your dedicated admissions advisor will provide you with information along every step of your journey. Your advisor will help you enroll and provide you with detailed information on Student Orientation, brief you on student life, and help you with admissions and enrolling in courses.

In the meantime, here is a handy checklist to help you stay organized! International applicants for admission must meet the following requirements.

Interview with a University of Silicon Valley Admissions Advisor
Complete an International Students Application for admission.
Provide a copy of a current valid passport with an expiration date of at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay and is valid for travel to the United States.
Submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Provide bank statements and/or other supporting documents demonstrating adequate financial support to cover all educational and living expenses while in school.
Provide proof of English language proficiency since all instruction is conducted in English. TOEFL or IELTS scores will be accepted as proof.
Provide proof of secondary school completion for undergraduate programs or proof of proof of completion of a four-year Bachelor’s degree for graduate programs. Include SpanTran unless transcripts are in English.
If a prospective candidate is interested in the Game Writing Degree, the admissions advisor will go over the portfolio requirements.