Any undergraduate applicant who is not a U.S. Citizen or a Resident Alien (documentation required) will be considered an international student and should complete WCU's international student application.
More information on International Programs and Services is available here.
To Apply as an International Student
International students applying for undergraduate admission to WCU must submit the following information:
1. A WCU international application for undergraduate admission and certification of finances (also available from the Office of Admissions, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina 28723).
2. Application fee of $40 (U.S. currency).
3. Official copies of academic records from secondary schools, including a record of courses taken and grades received, graduation date, and diploma or certificates received.
4. Official copy of academic records from postsecondary institutions (colleges and universities). Include courses taken, grades received, graduation date, and diploma or certificates received.
5. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores or Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores. The SAT is required for native English speakers.
Graduate students may apply by requesting an application from Research and Graduate Studies, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC 28723 or you may download an application here (PDF).
Cost of Attendance
International students do not qualify for federal and state aid administered by WCU. Therefore, students must be prepared to pay for tuition, fees, room and board, books, personal items, and medical insurance as outlined below. (Costs are estimated for one academic year: fall and spring semesters. These fees do not include expenses for summer school, dependents, or spouses.)
- Non-resident tuition and fees: $13,528
- Room and board $4460
- Books and estimated personal expenses: $216 (for undergrad books) + $2,400 (personal expenses) = $2616
- Medical insurance $596
- Total cost (for one year): $21,200
Financial Aid
Students having financial concerns have these options:
1. Employment - See Employment Opportunities for International Students (in this booklet) and Immigration Procedures available in the ISA office.
2. Emergency Loans - These are available to students and are limited to small amounts with short repayment periods.
3. Consulate/Embassy - Contact your home government representative about available scholarships and loans.
Housing for International Students
Contact Us
For more information, contact Lois Petrovich-Mwaniki, director of International Programs & Services:
Email: lmwaniki@wcu.edu
Phone: 828.227.7494
Fax: 828.227.7080