Student Services :: International Students

Home / Student Services / International Education

Getting Started - International Students

Dates and Deadlines

In order to process I-20s in a timely manner, the following dates have been set for all required documents to be received by a VWCC international advisor.

Semester to Start Out of Country Applicants Transfer Students
Fall June 1 July 1
Spring November 1 December 1
Summer March 15 April 15

How to Apply as an International Student

1. Apply to Virginia Western

There are three ways to apply to Virginia Western:

  • Review instructions and apply online.
  • Download the VWCC Application in PDF format. Return the completed application to the Virginia Western Admissions Office in Chapman Hall Rm 108, by fax at 540-857-6102 or by mail at:

    Admissions Office
    Virginia Western Community College
    P.O. Box 14007
    Roanoke, VA 24038
  • Request a mailed application by contacting the Virginia Western Admissions Office at 540-857-7231.

2. Complete the I-20 Student Information Form

Click here to complete the form.

All I-20 forms are filed with INS on the Student & Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) electronic database. The form must be completed very accurately. It is the basis for your I-20 and some Consular Offices are very particular.

3. Obtain a copy of your I-94 (In-Country Applicants Only)

If you are an in-country applicant, you must obtain a copy of your I-94, Passport, or Visa to provide to the International Education office.

4. Demonstrate English Proficiency

  1. If you are out of the country, you must complete the TOEFL and earn a score of at least:
    • 500 on a paper-based test
    • 173 on a computer-based test OR
    • 61 on an Internet-based test.

    Our code for reporting scores is 5868.
  2. Students already in the United States should either provide documentation of college level English at an American college/university or take the Virginia Western placement test.

5. Obtain Transcripts

You must obtain transcripts and English translations of all your High School and/or College records.

6. Obtain an Affidavit of Support

The student's proof of financial responsibility must be received, reviewed, and evaluated at Virginia Western Community College. Please see the cost estimate breakdown below for an estimate of the funds needed for 2 years of attendance.

Cost Estimate

Tuition and Fees Cost per Year # of Years Total
Tuition and fees (current rates) $8,000 2 $16,000
Books and Supplies $1,000 2 $2,000
Room and Board (not provided by VWCC) $8,000 2 $16,000
Personal Expenses and Health Insurance $2,000 2 $4,000
Total     $38,000

The student may also use the Virginia Western Funds Verification form and the Virginia Western Statement of Financial Support form to verify this "Total Need" if they are already in this country.

Click here for more information and to download the Affidavit of Support (I-134) Form.

7. Submit Your I-901 Fee

After you receive your I-20, submit your I-901 fee to the Federal Government.

8. If Transferring, Submit the Transfer Eligibility Form (In-country Applicants Only)

If you are transferring from another U.S. college, please complete the Transfer Eligibility Form and submit a copy of your current I-20.

9. Provide Documentation of Health Insurance

Once you enroll in classes, you must provide documentation of health insurance. Examples:

  • letter of verfication from the insurance company
  • copy of insurance card
  • copy of insurance policy

Contact Us

Angela Hairston-Niblett
ahairston-niblett@virginiawestern.edu
540-857-6014

VWCC

VWCC Alerts

We use VW Alert to immediately contact you during a major crisis or emergency.

Get more info and register