Admissions & Aid
International Admissions
Welcome to a diverse global community representing more than 80 nations. Located on Long Island Sound just over an hour from New York City, UB offers dedicated visa guidance, 3-year STEM OPT pathways, and generous international scholarships.
A welcoming coastal campus with global reach
For decades, University of Bridgeport has welcomed international scholars into an inclusive academic community that combines rigorous career preparation with direct access to the economic centers of the Northeast.
Prime Northeast Location
Located on scenic Long Island Sound, with convenient commuter rail service reaching midtown Manhattan in just over an hour.
STEM OPT Work Authorization
Graduates of our STEM-designated undergraduate and graduate degrees qualify for up to 36 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States.
Dedicated International Support
Our International Student Services team provides personal guidance from your initial Form I-20 through graduation, employment authorization, and cultural adjustment.
Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate and Graduate Requirements
Free online application with clear, transparent academic credential evaluation.
Bachelor's Degree
Undergraduate Applicants
Submit a completed online application, official secondary school transcripts with English translations, proof of English proficiency, and a copy of your passport ID page.
High School Diploma
Master's & MBA
Graduate Applicants
Submit official university transcripts and degree certificates, two letters of recommendation, resume, statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency.
Bachelor’s Degree
Ph.D. & Doctorate
Doctoral Candidates
Submit undergraduate and graduate transcripts, writing samples or research publications, professional resume, and participate in a faculty research interview where required.
Master’s Degree
English Language Proficiency Standards
University of Bridgeport accepts multiple recognized examinations to demonstrate English proficiency for direct degree admission.
Accepted Examinations
TOEFL iBT (79 undergraduate / 80 graduate), IELTS Academic (6.0 undergraduate / 6.5 graduate), Duolingo English Test (100 undergraduate / 105 graduate), and PTE Academic (53 undergraduate / 58 graduate).
English Language Institute (ELI)
Applicants who do not yet meet direct entry scores can receive conditional admission and enroll in our intensive English Language Institute on campus.
Exemption Criteria
Citizens of recognized English-speaking nations or students who have earned a degree from an accredited institution in the United States may qualify for an English exam waiver.
Four Steps to Secure Your Form I-20 and F-1 Visa
Submit your financial declaration
Provide an official bank statement and affidavit of support verifying funding for tuition, fees, and living expenses for your first academic year.
Receive your Form I-20
Once academically admitted and financial documentation is approved, UB issues your official Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20) through the federal SEVIS system.
Pay the SEVIS fee and schedule your interview
Pay the federal SEVIS I-901 fee online, complete the DS-160 visa application, and schedule your visa interview at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.
Prepare for departure and arrival
Attend pre-departure virtual webinars with our international advisors, finalize campus housing, and prepare your arrival documents for US Customs inspection.
Merit Aid
Scholarships for International Students
International applicants are automatically evaluated for institutional merit scholarships upon submission of a complete application.
Undergraduate Merit
International Trustee Scholarship
Annual renewable awards up to $20,000 for high-achieving undergraduate international scholars based on academic credentials.
Up to $20,000 / Year
Undergraduate Merit
International President's Award
Renewable merit scholarship awarded to qualified international first-year and transfer students to reduce tuition costs.
Renewable Annually
Graduate Recognition
Dean's Graduate Achievement Award
Tuition grants awarded to exceptional incoming international graduate and doctoral students based on prior academic excellence.
Graduate Grant
Straight Answers
Frequently Asked Questions for International Students
Can international students work while studying at UB?
Yes. F-1 student visa holders are legally permitted to work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester and full-time during official vacation periods.
What is STEM OPT and which UB programs qualify?
STEM OPT allows eligible graduates with science, technology, engineering, or mathematics degrees to apply for a 24-month extension of their 12-month post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), for a total of 36 months of US work authorization. UB offers numerous STEM-designated degrees in engineering, computer science, analytics, finance, biology, and business.
Do I need to submit a credential evaluation (such as WES)?
For most undergraduate and graduate programs, University of Bridgeport provides in-house credential evaluations at no charge. Specialized health science programs may require a course-by-course evaluation through an accredited NACES provider.
Is on-campus housing guaranteed for international students?
Yes. On-campus housing in our university residence halls is available and guaranteed for international students who complete their housing registration by the priority deadline.
Is health insurance required for international students?
Yes. All international students on F-1 visas are required to enroll in the comprehensive University of Bridgeport student health insurance plan to ensure medical coverage while studying in the United States.
How far in advance should I apply for my visa?
We encourage international applicants to complete their applications 3 to 4 months prior to the semester start date to ensure ample time for I-20 processing, interview scheduling, and visa issuance.
Ready to join our global campus community?
Apply free in a single sitting, or connect with our international admissions counselors at international@bridgeport.edu.