Hosting the Nations

International Students

We have the pleasure of welcoming hundreds of international students from over 50 countries and all six continents each year. The presence of international students increases our cultural awareness and brings much joy, diversity, and the pleasant sounds of many languages to our environment.

Upcoming Events

International Admissions Process

1. Apply for BSSM

Apply for BSSM online at MyBSSM and pay the application fee. Ask your references to fill in the reference forms online. After your application, your references, and your application fee have been received, you will have an interview. If you are accepted into the school, you will need to pay your deposit to receive your I-20 form to apply for your M-1 visa. Per SEVIS guidelines, I-20s will begin processing no sooner than six months prior to the BSSM Program Start Date of the term you applied for.  All I-20s are processed on a first come first serve basis.

2. Begin M-1 Visa Application Process

Please allow a minimum of 30 days for your I-20 to be completed. You will receive a notification when it has been issued. The current status of your I-20 can be found on your profile page. Due To Covid Restrictions and Guidelines, your I-20 forms will be electronically signed and emailed to you. Thank you for your flexibility as we attempt to remain current with frequently changing COVID restrictions and guidelines. You will be notified of any updates and changes in the processing of your I-20 Forms.

M–1 Visa Application

3. Pay SEVIS Fee

Pay the SEVIS fee for your I-901 form after you receive your I-20 form. This allows your M-1 application activity to be tracked, and is required for entering the country. Click on the link below to see the cost of the fee and make the payment online. 

Pay SEVIS

4. US Embassy Appointment

After you have received your I-20 and have paid your SEVIS fee, make an appointment with the American Embassy in your country to get your M-1 visa (Canadians are exempt from this step). You are required to bring these documents to your appointment:

  • Passport
  • I-20 form
  • Proof of funds for the year (amount needed is printed on your I-20 form)
  • Receipt from the payment for your I-901 form (SEVIS fee)

 

5. Pay Tuition

All International students are required to pay their full tuition by the International Payment Deadline or you will be unable to register. Download the Financial Packet for the important dates to be aware of.

View Payment Deadlines

6. Entering the U.S.

You may arrive in the United States no more than 30 days before the first day of school. You are required to have these documents when you enter the country:

  • Passport
  • I-20 form with M-1 visa notation
  • Proof of funds for the year (amount needed is printed on your I-20 form)
  • Driving record in English from your country if you intend to drive (this helps keep your driver’s insurance low)

M1 Visa Information

Everything you need to know about studying in the U.S. on the M1 Visa.

Learn More

Support for International Students

To serve our international students, we have a Director of International Student Services, Pam Spinosi. Pam has lived and worked abroad for ten years, understands the unique joys and challenges of international living, and is available to provide assistance as you adapt to life in the U.S.

International Student Handbook

Contact Pam

INTERNATIONAL Student EVENTS

Each year we have an international student orientation as well as a welcome reception to get our international students acquainted and adjusted to life at BSSM. Click below to learn more about all our international student events.

International Student Events