International Degree-Seeking Students

Fairfield University welcomes international students from around the world in recognition of the diverse perspective they bring to the classroom and the greater University community. Our students represent a variety of countries throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, & South America. We hope you'll consider starting your journey here at Fairfield University.

Prospective Students

Fairfield University welcomes applications from international students around the world in recognition of the diverse perspective they bring to the classroom and the greater University community. Our students represent over 50 countries across four continents and include China, India, Ireland, Vietnam, Peru, and Mexico to name a few.

During their academic journey at Fairfield, international students have plenty of time between lectures as lab sessions to explore the landscape, visit iconic landmarks, and experience a brand new country with brand-new customs and activities. With the shoreline and beach just one mile from campus and New York City only a 60-minute train ride away, the opportunities for adventure are endless.

Virtual information Sessions are currently being offered to prospective international students interested in learning more about the Fairfield experience. The sessions will be conducted via Zoom conferencing software and held on Wednesdays at 9 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. Register today.

Ready to apply?

Undergraduates Apply Here       

Graduate Students Apply Here

     For Questions, Contact the International Admission Office (203) 254-4100.

Newly Admitted International Students

Now that you have been admitted into an undergraduate program at Fairfield University you will need a valid student visa. Below is a list of required documents to apply for the visa.

Getting a US Visa

Form I-20/Form DS-2019, passport, SEVIS I-901 fee receipt, Form DS-160, financial documents (Proof of Financial Means) and Admission Letter (F-1) or Exchange Decision email from Global Fairfield (J-1). You may also be asked to present academic records and test scores, and may be asked to provide proof of compelling ties to your home country (what will prevent you from permanently moving to the U.S.: family, property, previous US travel, etc.). Check with your Consulate’s website for their visa appointment requirements to ensure that you are fully prepared.

  • A valid passport

  • A valid Form I-20 – This form is obtained through Fairfield University for F-1 students only.  Please email globalfairfield@fairfield.edu to start the process. Students should begin their I-20 process 120 days prior to start of term and after acceptance.

  • A valid DS-2019 (required forJ1 student or J-1 scholar only) for a list of requirements to receive a DS-2019 please email globalfairfield@fairfield.edu

  • SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Receipt – payment made after receipt of 1-20

  • Proof of Financial Support – must be a bank statement on official bank letterhead

Current International Students

Welcome back to all continuing international students! Please remember to register for your academic courses and request appointments with your academic advisors for any assistance. All graduate international students must be registered for at least 9 credit and 6 of those credits must be fully in person (face-to-face instruction). All undergraduate international students must be registered for at least 12 credits with 9 of those credits being fully in person (face-to-face instruction).

When traveling internationally please ensure that your I-20 is up to date and has a travel signature that can be found on page 2 of the document. For International travel please complete a Life@.travel endorsement request.

For any work authorization, on-campus, CPT or OPT questions please email globalfairfield@fairfield.edu. To access CPT, On-campus or OPT request forms visit Life@.