Boston University Summer programs

The Boston University Summer Term program offers a unique opportunity for international students to study in the U.S., meet peers from around the world, enhance their knowledge through a rigorous curriculum, and enjoy a vibrant U.S. city—all within a few weeks. Situated in the heart of Boston, which is ranked the number one city in the U.S. for international students, Boston University provides an ideal setting for those eager to immerse themselves in a culturally rich and historically significant environment.

With over 700 courses available, taught by BU's renowned faculty recognized for their excellence in teaching and research, participants can choose from a diverse array of subjects to achieve their academic objectives. This program encourages the exploration of new fields, fosters diverse connections, and promotes growth academically, personally, and professionally for all who participate.

Boston University provides multiple on-campus housing options as well as meal plans to accommodate our international students. Our dedicated staff is available to assist you throughout the enrollment process and program participation. Beyond academics, there are many social activities and engaging experiences available to visiting students.

English Proficiency Requirements

English is the language of instruction at Boston University. As a visiting international student, you are required to submit results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET) prior to Summer Term registration. You are expected to have English proficiency levels equivalent to:

• Minimum of 84 on the internet-based TOEFL (iBT)
• Minimum of 7 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Minimum of 115 on the Duolingo English Test (DET)

Exceptions to this rule include students currently attending a college/university in the US and students who can submit documentation showing that English is the primary language of instruction at their home institution.

F-1 Student Status

To qualify for student immigration sponsorship, you must study full-time. Full-time enrollment is defined as registration for a minimum of 8 credits in one summer session or 12 credits over both sessions.

If you do not currently have an F-1 student visa, you can apply for one. In order to apply for an F-1 visa to the US, you must first obtain an I-20 immigration document from Boston University.

Requesting an I-20 from Boston University:

1. Complete the International Student Online Enrollment Form and pay the $50 international student processing fee by credit card upon submitting the form.
2. Submit the following to the Summer Term office:

• Registration Form for Summer 1 and/or Summer 2
• To qualify for student immigration sponsorship you must study full time. (Full-time enrollment is defined as registration for a minimum of 8 credits in one summer session or 12 credits if studying in both sessions.)
• Please note that courses numbered 600 or higher (e.g., MET AD 648) are graduate-level courses and are only available to students who have completed a Bachelor’s degree. Such courses may be subject to additional screening requirements before enrollment.
  • To qualify for student immigration sponsorship you must study full time. (Full-time enrollment is defined as registration for a minimum of 8 credits in one summer session or 12 credits if studying in both sessions.)
  • Please note that courses numbered 600 or higher (e.g., MET AD 648) are graduate-level courses and are only available to students who have completed a Bachelor’s degree. Such courses may be subject to additional screening requirements before enrollment.
• Copy of your valid passport, including the data page and passport expiration date
• Copy of your most recent I-94 admission record or most recent US Port of Entry stamp in your passport (only required if you are currently in the US)
• Copy of other relevant US immigration documents (only required if you are currently in the US)
• Copy of your most recent English Proficiency Test scores.
• Financial Documentation:
• Submit a bank statement or letter from your financial institution stating that you (or your sponsor) have sufficient funds to cover your summer expenses. This document must be written in English and the amount of funds must be converted to US dollars. (For information security purposes, when sending your bank statement be sure to black out your account number.)
• The Financial Sponsorship Certification needs to accompany all other financial documents if you will be sponsored by an individual other than yourself, such as a family member.
  • Submit a bank statement or letter from your financial institution stating that you (or your sponsor) have sufficient funds to cover your summer expenses. This document must be written in English and the amount of funds must be converted to US dollars. (For information security purposes, when sending your bank statement be sure to black out your account number.)
  • The Financial Sponsorship Certification needs to accompany all other financial documents if you will be sponsored by an individual other than yourself, such as a family member.

• Registration Form for Summer 1 and/or Summer 2

• To qualify for student immigration sponsorship you must study full time. (Full-time enrollment is defined as registration for a minimum of 8 credits in one summer session or 12 credits if studying in both sessions.)
• Please note that courses numbered 600 or higher (e.g., MET AD 648) are graduate-level courses and are only available to students who have completed a Bachelor’s degree. Such courses may be subject to additional screening requirements before enrollment.
  • Copy of your valid passport, including the data page and passport expiration date
  • Copy of your most recent I-94 admission record or most recent US Port of Entry stamp in your passport (only required if you are currently in the US)
  • Copy of other relevant US immigration documents (only required if you are currently in the US)
  • Copy of your most recent English Proficiency Test scores.
  • Financial Documentation:
• Submit a bank statement or letter from your financial institution stating that you (or your sponsor) have sufficient funds to cover your summer expenses. This document must be written in English and the amount of funds must be converted to US dollars. (For information security purposes, when sending your bank statement be sure to black out your account number.)
• The Financial Sponsorship Certification needs to accompany all other financial documents if you will be sponsored by an individual other than yourself, such as a family member.

The BU International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) will send you your I-20 immigration document within approximately 15 days of receipt of your completed registration materials. They will begin sending I-20 documents in March.

Please note: The I-20 document is not a visa. After receiving your I-20, you will need to pay the SEVIS fee, complete a visa application, and schedule an F-1 visa interview with your local US Embassy or Consulate (instructions will be provided with your I-20 and are also available on the International Students and Scholars Office website).

Other Visa Statuses (for example, J-1, J-2, H-1B, H-4)

If you are currently in the US in a different nonimmigrant category, you may be eligible to take courses at Boston University Summer Term, depending on your immigration status.

Boston University’s campus extends over 131 acres in Boston’s Back Bay. Stretching along the banks of the Charles River and straddling historic Commonwealth Avenue from Kenmore Square to Allston, BU is a distinctly urban university. Campus classrooms and residence halls coexist next to eclectic shops and diverse eateries. Charming neighborhoods, iconic landmarks—such as Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox—and world-class museums are within walking distance. A short trolley ride downtown puts you amid Boston’s rich heritage and culture. And just across the river is Cambridge. Wherever you turn, you will find something new to pique your curiosity during the summer you spend in Boston.