application for full-time esl programs 1 2 In this packet, please find the following: Application Instructions Personal Information Form Application for I-20 Program/Payment Selection Form Frequently Asked Questions Program Descriptions Complete the following forms: Personal Information form Application for I-20 Program/Payment Selection Form Need Help? Susan Griffin susan.griffin@umb.edu Tel: 1.617.287.7278 Fax: 1.617.287.7297 Visit our site uc.umb.edu/esl 3 4 5 Attach the following financial documents (must be original not a fax or photocopy): Applicant s original bank statement or letter or Sponsor s original bank statement or letter or support letter (if applicable) A copy of your passport photo page Forms of Payment (due after arrival and upon registration): Check Money order (in USD) Credit Card Attach records of immunizations listed below (or obtain immunizations within 30 days of arrival): Required: 2 doses MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccines or a positive Titer showing immunity 1 doses Tetanus-Diphtheria or Tdap within the past 10 years 3 doses Hepatitis B vaccine Highly Recommended: Meningitis TB skin test for those from and traveling to high-risk areas 6 Mail the completed application forms to: Be sure to make a copy of the completed application for your records. Susan Griffin University of Massachusetts Boston, University College 100 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125-3393 USA
2 p e r s o n a l i n f o r m a t i o n Mr. Mrs. Ms. Family Name/Surname Given/First Name Home County Address City Postal Code Country Home Country Phone Number Fax Number Date of Birth (Month, Day and Year) Email Address Country of Birth Country of Citizenship Do you intend to bring your spouse or children with you? If yes, please list their names, birth dates, country of birth, and relationship to you: Yes No Are you currently in the U.S.? Yes No If yes, what is your visa status? F-1 U.S. Citizen Permanent Resident Termporary Resident with work authorization B-1/B-2 Other (please list type): Are you transferring from another school in the U.S.? If yes, you must provide a copy of the I-20 from that school, a copy of your passport and visa photo pages, a copy of your I-94 (Arrival/Departure) card, and a completed Transfer Report Form. Yes No Give the name of the U.S. school from which you are transferring: How did you hear about our program? Please indicate: Website Publication Other Person in the United States we may contact concerning your application: Name Address Telephone Fax Number Email Address
3 a p p l i c a t i o n f o r I - 2 0 You are required to certify that you possess or have access to sufficient funds for each period of study to cover tuition, transportation, and living expenses. No financial aid is available. Married applicants who plan to bring their spouse and/or children must provide a financial statement of an additional $1,000 per dependent per quarter. FUNDS REQUIRED: Summer $7000 Fall $12,750 Winter $TBA Spring $TBA PLEASE NOTE: The I-20 document may take up to ten working days (2 weeks) to process, plus mailing time and time for you to get your visa. Please send this application allowing sufficient time for processing the I-20 form. HOW WILL YOU PROVIDE FOR YOUR EXPENSES WHILE ENROLLED IN YOUR PROGRAM? PERSONAL SAVINGS If you are using your own Personal Savings, you must include an original bank statement or bank letter (on letterhead). All documentation must be in English and all amounts must be in U.S. dollars (USD). My personal savings at this time amount to $ (USD) of which $ (USD) will be available to cover all educational, living, and emergency expenses during my studies at UMass Boston. PRIVATE SPONSOR (CANNOT BE ANOTHER F-1 STUDENT) If you are using your own Personal Savings, you must include an original bank statement or bank letter (on letterhead). All documentation must be in English and all amounts must be in U.S. dollars (USD). By signing below, I promise to provide $ (USD) in support of all the educational and living expenses of during their studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Signature of Sponsor Date Relationship Print Name Address GOVERNMENT, FOUNDATION, AGENCY, OR CORPORATE FELLOWSHIP SUPPORT If you are receiving support from an outside agency, please attach an official copy of your award letter specifying the amount of the award, period of support, and any conditions or terms. Name of Organization Address PLEASE INDICATE WHERE WE SHOULD MAIL THE I-20 FORM TO YOU Name Street Address City Postal Code Country Telephone Email CERTIFICATION BY APPLICANT This is to certify that the information furnished on this form is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. Signature of Student Date
4 For students transferring t r a n s f e r r e p o r t from other U.S. schools ONLY PART A: TO BE COMPLETED BY THE APPLICANT Please complete Part A, sign and date this form. Have the International Student Advisor at your present school complete Part B. Name of Applicant (Last/Surname, First, MI) Street Address (US Address) City State Zip I give permission that the information requested below be sent to the University of Massachusetts Boston. Applicant s Signature Date PART B: TO BE COMPLETED BY THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISOR The above-named student is applying for admission to the University of Massachusetts Boston. In order to determine this student s eligibility for transfer, please complete this form and MAIL it to: University of Massachusetts Boston UC, ATTN: SUSAN GRIFFIN, 100 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA 02125-3393 OR FAX it to: 617.287.7297 ATTN: SUSAN GRIFFIN. 1. Date of student s initial F-1 entry into the U.S. 2. I-94 Admission Number 3. Dates of enrollment at your institution 4. Was/is the student pursuing a full course of study at your institution? 5. To the best of your knowledge, is the student currently in status with the USCIS? 6. Has the student satisfied all financial obligations to your institution? 7. SEVIS I.D. number SEVIS release date 8. Is the student eligible to continue at your institution? (If not, please explain) Name of School Official Title Signature of School Official Date Institution Mailing Address (Street, City, State, Zip) Telephone
5 p r o g r a m / p a y m e n t s e l e c t i o n SELECT A PROGRAM Summer 2011: May 31-August 19, $3,019; Fall 2011: September 6-December 16, $4,750; Winter 2012: TBA; Spring 2012: TBA Intensive English Summer 2011 Fall 2011 Winter 2012 Spring 2012 The Intensive Program is a full-time set of courses designed to help participants learn English in the shortest possible time. For participants at the beginner and intermediate level, coursework focuses on integrated practice of the basic language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing through a variety of activities. There will also be context-based grammar study at the appropriate level and pace, and exercises in vocabulary building. For participants with more advanced English skills, coursework will include formal oral presentations and practical writing projects on themes of interest to students. Students are offered instruction in creating and delivering multimedia presentations, web pages, and doing web-based research. Students may also choose TOEFL Test Preparation courses. Suitably advanced participants may audit university courses by special permission. University Preparation Summer 2011 Fall 2011 Winter 2012 Spring 2012 Participants seeking university placement enroll in the University Preparation Program, which combines intensive study of English with preparation for successful study at American colleges and universities. Participants experience an integrated program that focuses on study of subject matter typical of the university and training in academic skills, including academic writing and research; oral presentations; critical and creative thinking; note-taking; advanced listening comprehension strategies for the academic classroom; and time-management. Suitably advanced students may audit regular university classes by special permission. In addition, TOEFL test preparation, GMAT and GRE test preparation for students aspiring to graduate study, and assistance in the college admission process are offered. Candidates seeking admission to UMass Boston undergraduate programs may submit their work in University Preparation in lieu of a TOEFL exam score. Students who choose this option must receive a favorable evaluation by their instructors, and must submit a portfolio of essays written during their program of study. PAYMENT INFORMATION (Payment is made after student arrives and is registered in courses.) Accepted forms of payment are: Check (All checks must be in dollars and drawn on a US Bank.) Make check payable to UMass Boston Mastercard Discover American Express (Note: Visa cards are no longer accepted) Credit Card payments may be made through SallieMae. MasterCard, Discover, or American Express cards can be used (Visa cards are not accepted). A non-refundable convenience fee of 2.5% will be charged on each credit card transaction. SPECIAL PROGRAMS (contact us for enrollment information at 1.617.287.7278 or email susan.griffin@umb.edu) Individualized Study Plans: Special Topics Research Program The Special Topics Research Program provides, side by side with English language training and support, the opportunity for a student to undertake an intensive program of study in a specific academic field under the direction of UMass Boston faculty in fulfillment of degree requirements of the participants home institution, for instance, to complete the pasantia required by many Latin American universities. Participants pursue a personalized plan of study involving coursework, independent study, and/or research that complements or extends their personal academic interests in topics that may not be readily available in their own university setting. This program is designed to allow participants an opportunity to take advantage of the strong research and teaching acumen of UMass Boston faculty while not having to matriculate for a full degree program in the United States. Programs in English Language Training for Groups, and English for Special Purposes Please contact us if you are interested in our custom designed programs in English language study for groups, including undergraduates, graduates, and faculty. Course content and structure can be developed according to the specialized needs of each group. This program option is particularly suited for business and government sponsored groups.
6 f r e q u e n t l y a s k e d q u e s t i o n s What is the basic eligibility for applying to the ESL Program at UMass Boston? You are eligible to apply for admission to the program if you have completed the equivalent of an American secondary school education or if you have reached at least 17 years of age. You do not need a TOEFL score to enter this program. What do I need to include with the application? You must submit the completed application, full payment, and a bank statement or letter certifying that you (or your sponsor) have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses during your period of study. Once the application is received and processed, UMass will issue you an I-20. What is the I-20 form? The full name of the I-20 form is "The Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (F-1) Student Status-for Academic and Language Students, INS Form I-20 A-B." It is an official government document that will be sent to you with your acceptance letter. The I- 20 form is not a visa. It is, however, the most important document needed to apply for a student (F-1) visa. Once you have this form, you should go to the U.S. Embassy or the U.S. Consulate nearest you with your passport and proof of financial support (bank statements, etc.). U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world have certain processes and requirements for applying for visas. Please contact them directly before your office visit. What is an F-1 visa? Everyone who enters the U.S. is given an immigration status. For students enrolling in our ESL program this is an F-1 visa status. This status is noted at the U.S. Port of Entry on the Form I-94. Students with F-1 status are governed by regulations of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), a bureau of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. For more information, please visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov When can I enter the U.S. after obtaining my F-1 visa? You may enter the U.S. no sooner than 30 days prior to the start date on your I-20. Can I bring my spouse and/or dependent children with me? Yes, but an additional $1,000 per person, per semester must be included in your financial statement. When is the deadline to submit my application? Although there is no specific application deadline, international students are encouraged to begin the application process at least 2 to 3 months before their expected date of enrollment. Students must allow ample time for the admissions process, mailing of the I-20, and for processing of the F-1 student visa application through the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate. I already have an I-20 from another school I have attended in the U.S. May I continue to use this I-20, or do I need to get a new one? If you are in the U.S. and are transferring to UMass from another school, you must submit the transfer report (p. 4 of application) to your present school. Once we receive the transfer report along with your completed application and you have been released to UMass by your previous school, we will issue you a new I-20. Can a person who is here as a visitor (not on a student visa) attend the program? No. International students enrolling in this program must have student visa status. Do I qualify for the U.S. government's federal financial aid if I am an international student? No. F-1 students must submit documentation proving that they have the financial support to pay their tuition and do not qualify for the federal financial aid program. Can I work while I am attending UMass Boston? You may work on campus with proper authorization. F-1 student visa holders may work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. However, you should keep in mind that work opportunities are very limited and should not be factored into your budget. Off campus employment is not an option. Does the university have on-campus housing? The University does not have dormitories or any on-campus housing, but does have an Office of Student Housing to assist students in finding off-campus housing. The service offers listings of apartments and houses to rent or share, as well as home-stay and short term accommodations. They can be reached directly by phone at 617.287.6011, fax 617.287.6076, or at their website: umb.edu/students/housing/ How do I know which is the right class for me? To ensure that students are placed in appropriate courses and levels, they must attend an assessment session. The session consists of several types of tests: grammar, listening and reading comprehension, and a writing sample. There is also an interview with a program instructor. Tests are completed over the first few days of the semester, and take place in conjunction with a variety of classroom and orientation activities. Formal classes begin only after the orientation period. Do you offer Health Insurance? The program fee provides for participant use of the University Health Center. However, this is not a health insurance plan. In general, medical services in the U.S. are very expensive. You and any dependents in this country should be covered by health insurance in case of an accident or serious illness which may require hospitalization or a specialist's care. If you do not have your own private insurance, you are eligible to purchase the University's Health Insurance Plan upon your arrival at the university. What are the immunization requirements? Please submit copies of your immunizations records with your ESL application (or obtain immunizations within 30 days of arrival). Required: 2 doses MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccines or a positive Titer showing immunity, 1 doses Tetanus-Diphtheria or Tdap within the past 10 years, 3 doses Hepatitis B vaccine. Highly Recommended: Meningitis TB skin test for those from and traveling to high-risk areas
7 p r o g r a m s Full-Time Programs ESL: The Intensive Course The Intensive Course is a full-time semester-long program designed to help participants learn English in the shortest possible time. For participants at the beginner and intermediate level, coursework will include intensive practice of the basic language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. There will also be formal grammar study at the appropriate level and pace, and exercises in vocabulary building. For participants with more advanced English skills, coursework will include, in addition to assigned readings and exercises, oral presentation and writing projects. Reading and writing coursework focuses on topics of interest to participants. Computer lab time is scheduled, and students are offered basic instruction in creating presentations, web pages, and doing web-based research. Students may also choose TOEFL Test Preparation courses. University Preparation Program The University Preparation Program combines intensive study of English with preparation for successful study at American colleges and universities. Participants experience an integrated program focused on instruction in university study skills, academic writing, and content-based course work typical of an American university classroom. Qualified students may receive permission to audit regular ongoing university courses. Computer lab time is scheduled, and students are offered instruction in creating presentations, web pages, as well as doing web-based research. Candidates seeking admission to UMass Boston undergraduate programs may submit their work in University Preparation in lieu of a TOEFL exam score. Students who choose this option must receive a favorable evaluation by their instructors, and must submit a portfolio of essays written during their program of study. Special Programs (contact us for enrollment information (1.617.287.7278 or email susan.griffin@umb.edu) Individualized Study Plans: Special Topics Research Program The Special Topics Research Program provides, side by side with English language training and support, the opportunity for a student to undertake an intensive program of study in a specific academic field under the direction of UMass Boston faculty in fulfillment of degree requirements of the participants home institution, for instance, to complete the pasantia required by many Latin American universities. Participants pursue a personalized plan of study involving coursework, independent study, and/or research that complements or extends their personal academic interests in topics that may not be readily available in their own university setting. This program is designed to allow participants an opportunity to take advantage of the strong research and teaching acumen of UMass Boston faculty while not having to matriculate for a full degree program in the United States. Programs in English Language Training for Groups, And English for Special Purposes Please contact us if you are interested in our custom designed programs in English language study for groups, including undergraduates, graduates, and faculty. Course content and structure can be developed according to the specialized needs of each group. This program option is particularly suited for business and government sponsored groups. Winter ESL This short, intensive English language experience can serve as an introduction to the spring session of either the University Preparation or Intensive English Programs, or as a self-contained English program for those who cannot attend more than three weeks. This winter session is designed to accommodate students at all levels of English proficiency. Summer ESL in Boston UMass Boston is pleased to offer a full-time program of study in English for non-native speakers. These summer sessions are designed to accommodate students at all levels of English proficiency. Whatever your goals, and whatever your level - beginner, intermediate, or advanced speaker of English - you will find a course of study suited to your needs. International students seeking acceptance into an American university at the graduate or undergraduate level have the option of taking courses specifically designed to develop their academic skills. Working professionals and other interested participants who wish to improve their skills in practical communication and everyday English can select the Intensive English option.