There’s no place in the world like Gallaudet University

International Admissions

Gallaudet has deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing students from 40 countries, who each bring their unique perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences to our community.

Washington, D.C. is a global city – home to international cultural organizations, world-renowned museums, nonprofits, and corporations. With support from Gallaudet’s international admissions staff, you can explore internship and employment opportunities and participate in unparalleled cultural activities. People from all over the world have found home in D.C.

The Washington Metropolitan Area has a diverse population of over 6 million.

Live, study, and engage with a tight-knit community in an international city.

Visit an abundance of historical landmarks, museums, and neighborhoods to explore.

You Belong Here!

There’s no better place to earn your degree than Gallaudet University.

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Application Checklist

International admissions checklist

Choose Gallaudet University, and get ready to accelerate your future and influence the world!

You will be considered a first-time freshman if you have never enrolled at any other college/university before applying.

Undergraduate applicants

Graduate applicants

Visiting/Special applicants

Undergraduate applicants

Important Deadlines

Applications	Deadline
Application Fee Waiver Deadline	December 1
Honors Priority Deadline	February 15
National Decision Day	May 1
Certification of Finances form for Fall admission due	May 30
Fall admission deadline	June 30
Certification of Finances form for Spring admission due	October 30
Spring admission deadline	November 30

International Undergraduate Applicants Checklist

Create a user account
Complete an online application, including the $50 application fee
One written essay and one video essay in American Sign Language
A letter of recommendation from an academic teacher who teaches a core subject such as English, mathematics, or social studies
Unofficial high school and college transcripts (if applicable)*
**American College Test (ACT), SAT (formerly known as Scholastic Aptitude/Assessment Test), or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores (or alternative testing). Learn how you can take the ACT exam on campus.
Audiogram
Certification of Finances form
Sponsor’s Affidavit of Support form
F-1 Transfer Request form (if transferring from a college in the U.S.)

* Please ensure that the transcripts are translated into English before sending. Also, please note that if you have earned college credits during high school via dual enrollment or advanced placement, you will still be considered a first-time freshman. ** Due to the pandemic, you may sign up for the Degrees of Reading Power or the Math College Readiness assessments in lieu of ACT or SAT scores. Sign up for the assessments through the application portal, after you submit your application. International applicants will be required to submit TOEFL scores. (Use 5240 for the Educational Testing Service [ETS] institutional code.)

Graduate applicants

Important Deadlines

Applications	Deadline
Application Fee Waiver Deadline	December 1
Honors Priority Deadline	February 15
Enrollment Deposit Due	May 1

Dual Degree Graduate Application Requirements

You can apply for two graduate programs; just submit an application for each program following their respective application instructions. If you are already a student in one program and would like to add another program of study, submit a letter from the chair of your current program that indicates you are in good academic standing and approved to add another program of study.

International Graduate Applicants Checklist

Create a user account
Identify your program(s) and learn its specific application requirements. Complete an online application, including the $75 application fee
A minimum 3.0-grade point average (GPA), on a 4-point scale, in all previous undergraduate and graduate studies. (Occasionally, applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0 may be admitted conditionally upon the department recommendation.)
One written essay in English and one video essay in American Sign Language
A letter of recommendation from an academic teacher who teaches a core subject such as English, mathematics, or social studies
Official transcripts from all the undergraduate and graduate schools you’ve attended.
Official copies of test scores¹:
- Degrees of Reading Power(DRP); or
- National Teachers Examination (NTE) (if applicable); or
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
Provide your references and goal statement for each program you apply to²
Take American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI), if required
Review and meet all other requirements

¹ Test requirements may vary by program. The standardized testing requirements for your chosen degree program are in the Graduate School Catalog. The DRP can be taken upon submission of your graduate application. Send all test scores to the Graduate Admissions Office, along with Gallaudet’s code: R5240, directly from the testing center you use.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

² Most programs require a goal statement, which should prove that your past achievements will enable you to succeed in your graduate program(s). After your goal statement is uploaded with your completed application, it will be reviewed by the faculty selection committee.

Visiting/Special applicants

Live your Best Life at Gallaudet

Along with Gallaudet’s immigration support and compliance, you can take advantage of internationally-focused internship and employment opportunities and participate in cultural activities, such as free festivals and fairs, live performances, and art exhibitions throughout the city.

Gallaudet University is a good choice because it has low tuition and fees

Another benefit of attending Gallaudet University is its affordable tuition and fees.

Once you enroll at Gallaudet with support from the international admissions staff, you can request financial assistance from the University’s Financial Aid Office. Additionally, after completing your first academic year of studies, you are eligible for scholarships from Gallaudet!

History & Traditions

Absorb the wealth of knowledge and progress at an institution steeped in rich history and cultural milestones.

New and Emerging Signers

From mastering the basics to reaching fluency, Gallaudet is the perfect place to learn ASL.

Academics

Explore 40 undergraduate majors and minors across 11 disciplines and challenging graduate programs and online degree offerings.

Spirit and Athletics

There’s always a way to get moving and get involved. Let your Bison pride shine with 14 NCAA Division III teams and intramural programs.

Life at Gallaudet

Discover a college experience like no other in Gallaudet’s immersive ASL/English environment.

Research and Innovation

Be a part of groundbreaking research and innovation with a worldwide impact.

Clubs and Organizations

We’re better together. Support a cause, pursue your passions, and connect with peers in a Student Club or Organization.

Life in D.C.

Opportunity awaits in one of the most historical, diverse, and vibrant cities in the United States.

As you can see, we offer a full college experience, including much more than classes. There’s always something happening on campus—international and national speakers and performers, movie nights, multicultural celebrations, and group activities planned in the residence halls.

English Language Institute (ELI)

Gallaudet University’s English Language Institute (ELI) provides full-time instruction in English as a Second Language, American Sign Language, and cross-cultural studies to international and American deaf and hard of hearing adults. The intensive program helps students become proficient in English to qualify for admission to Gallaudet or another university in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can international students and scholars bring their families to the United States?

International students and scholars may bring their immediate family members (spouses and unmarried children under 21) to the United States on dependent visas (F-2 or J-2). However, please review the specific visa regulations and requirements and any applicable restrictions or limitations before bringing your family to the United States.

Please note: Gallaudet does not provide housing to the students and scholars’ immediate families or cover their living costs.

Please note: Gallaudet does not provide housing to the students and scholars’ immediate families or cover their living costs.

Do international students and scholars pay more in tuition than domestic students?

International students and scholars at Gallaudet University generally pay higher tuition rates than domestic students because international students are charged non-resident tuition fees. However, those from developing countries pay less tuition than those from non-developing countries.

Does Gallaudet University offer scholarships to international students and scholars?

Gallaudet University typically does not offer scholarships to international students and scholars, with the exception of some limited opportunities for institutional scholarships. Therefore, they are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities from government agencies, organizations, foundations, and other sources to help fund their education at Gallaudet.

Gallaudet University typically does not offer scholarships to international students and
scholars, with the exception of some limited opportunities for institutional scholarships.
Therefore, they are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities from
government agencies, organizations, foundations, and other sources to help fund their
education at Gallaudet. See here for more information about scholarships that international
students and scholars may be eligible for.

Does Gallaudet University offer financial aid to international students and scholars?

While Gallaudet University typically does not offer financial aid to international students and scholars, there are limited opportunities for need-based financial aid. These opportunities are competitive and vary depending on available funding. International students and scholars should explore alternative funding options and resources to cover their educational expenses.

Where can international students and scholars find funding to cover education costs at Gallaudet University?

International students and scholars are responsible for securing funding to cover their education costs at Gallaudet University, including tuition, fees, living expenses, and other educational expenses. The following are some external funding opportunities that are available to them:

Self-funding: Use personal savings, family support, or other resources to cover educational expenses.

Private scholarships: Explore scholarships offered by private organizations, foundations, corporations, and non-profit institutions. These scholarships could be merit-based, need-based, or award-based depending on specific criteria such as academic achievement, leadership skills, or field of study.

Government-sponsored programs: Many governments offer scholarships, grants, or financial assistance programs to support their citizens’ higher education abroad. International students and scholars can inquire with their home country’s government, embassy, or relevant ministries about available funding opportunities and eligibility criteria.

Sponsorships: International students and scholars can seek sponsorships or financial support from employers, organizations, community groups, or individuals to fund their education. Sponsorships are provided as a scholarship, grant, stipend, or tuition reimbursement.

Self-funding: Use personal savings, family support, or other resources to cover educational expenses.
Private scholarships: Explore scholarships offered by private organizations, foundations, corporations, and non-profit institutions. These scholarships could be merit-based, need based, or award-based depending on specific criteria such as academic achievement, leadership skills, or field of study.
Government-sponsored programs: Many governments offer scholarships, grants, or financial assistance programs to support their citizens’ higher education abroad. International students and scholars can inquire with their home country’s government, embassy, or relevant ministries about available funding opportunities and eligibility criteria.
Sponsorships: International students and scholars can seek sponsorships or financial support from employers, organizations, community groups, or individuals to fund their education. Sponsorships are provided as a scholarship, grant, stipend, or tuition reimbursement.

Can international students and scholars work on campus?

International students and scholars are generally eligible to work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and 40 hours per week during scheduled breaks (i.e., summer, Thanksgiving, winter, and spring breaks). Employment opportunities are limited, and students and scholars must obtain proper authorization from the University’s International Students and Scholars Services (ISSS) office before starting employment.

International students and scholars are generally eligible to work up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and 40 hours per week during scheduled breaks (i.e., summer, Thanksgiving, winter, and spring breaks). Employment opportunities are limited, and students and scholars must obtain proper authorization from the University’s International Student and Scholars Services (ISSS) Office before starting employment.

Where can international prospects apply to Gallaudet?

Gallaudet has program offerings in its English Language Institute and undergraduate and graduate schools.

Applicants must submit application forms and supporting documents in English.

Gallaudet has program offerings in its English Language Institute and undergraduate and graduate schools. See here for links to application forms and information about admissions at Gallaudet.

Applicants must submit application forms and supporting documents in English.

What supporting documents do international prospects need to submit along with their application?

Along with the application form, submit academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency, a statement of purpose or personal statement, and any other documents specified by the University’s admissions offices.

As stated above, applicants must submit application forms and supporting documents in English.

Which service should international students and scholars use to evaluate their education credentials for an admissions office’s review?

There are many certified translation or evaluation services available around the world. Gallaudet recommends that international students and scholars begin by exploring World Education Services at wes.org for its transcript evaluation service.
Please note: Applicants must pay a fee to get their education credentials evaluated. Fees vary among transcript evaluation services.

See here for other acceptable transcript evaluation services.

Please note: Applicant must pay a fee to get their education credentials evaluated. Fees vary among transcript evaluation services.

What is the Certification of Finance and why is it required?

The Certification of Finance is a document that international students and scholars must submit to demonstrate their ability to cover their total education costs at Gallaudet University. Educational costs include tuition, fees, living expenses, and other educational expenses. Once the Certification of Finance is approved, the University’s ISSS Office will issue the Form I-20 or DS-2019 required for the student visa application process.

The Certification of Finance is a document that international students and scholars must submit to demonstrate their ability to cover their total education costs at Gallaudet University.
Educational costs include tuition, fees, living expenses, and other educational expenses. Once the Certification of Finance is approved, the University’s ISSS Office will issue the Form I-20 or DS-2019 required for the student visa application process.

How do international students and scholars obtain a student visa to study at Gallaudet University?

Once international students and scholars have received their Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 from ISSS, they must apply for a student visa and schedule an interview appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country. It is essential to schedule an interview as soon as possible because the waiting time can be several weeks. Instructions to schedule an appointment can be found on the U.S. embassy website.

The visa application fee (Form DS-160) for an F-1 or J-1 student visa at U.S. embassies is $185.00. Please note that applying for a student visa and paying the visa application fee does not guarantee a student visa. For more information on who needs to pay the fee – and to see if paying online is an option – go to SEVIS Fee.

The following documents must be taken to the international student or scholar’s nearest U.S. embassy, consulate, or Point of Entry to apply for the F-1 or J-1 visa:
Passport
Acceptance Letter
Form I-20 or Form DS-2019
Financial Support Documentation
SEVIS I-901 Payment Confirmation Receipt

The following documents must be taken to the international student or scholar’s nearest U.S. embassy, consulate, or Point of Entry to apply for the F-1 or J-1 visa:

Passport
Acceptance Letter
Form I-20 or Form DS-2019
Financial Support Documentation
SEVIS I-901 Payment Confirmation Receipt

More information about student visas can be found here.

What are Gallaudet's English and American Sign Language proficiency requirements?

Due to Gallaudet University’s unique nature, every campus community member is encouraged to reach their potential in being bilingual in the visual modalities of American Sign Language (ASL) and written English. The University strives to accomplish this goal by creating a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment that fosters visual bilingual communication.

Who can international prospects talk to about their application?

Admissions counselors can answer questions and guide the application process.

Admissions counselors can answer questions and guide the application process. Please reach out to:

Please note: Immigration-related questions should be addressed to ISSS. International special student or international visiting scholar applicants should contact International Support to answer questions and guide the application process.

Can international prospects come to Gallaudet to improve their English and sign language?

Yes! Gallaudet University’s English Language Institute (ELI) is a non-degree, college-preparatory program that teaches English and ASL, among other preparatory courses that help prepare students for enrollment at Gallaudet University.
Besides the ELI, Gallaudet University encourages admitted students to participate in its four-week immersion program, the JumpStart program, before enrolling in the University as a new student. In addition, students have numerous opportunities to learn or receive tutoring in English and ASL.

Besides the ELI, Gallaudet University encourages admitted students to participate in its four week immersion program, the JumpStart program, before enrolling in the University as a new student. See here for more information about the JumpStart program. In addition, students have numerous opportunities to learn or receive tutoring in English and ASL.

What programs does Gallaudet University offer to international students and scholars?

Gallaudet University offers 60+ non-degree and degree-seeking programs in its ELI and undergraduate and graduate schools.

Gallaudet University offers 60+ non-degree and degree-seeking programs in its ELI and
undergraduate and graduate schools. See here for more information about Gallaudet
University’s program offerings.

Is there support available to international students and scholars at Gallaudet University?

Gallaudet University has many student support services, including orientations, academic advising, counseling services, English language and ASL support, and cultural adjustment assistance. ISSS is also available to provide guidance and support throughout a student or scholar’s academic journey.

Gallaudet University has many student support services, including orientations, academic
advising, counseling services, English language and ASL support, and cultural adjustment
assistance. ISSS is also available to provide guidance and support throughout a student or
scholar’s academic journey.

Are there opportunities for international students and scholars to engage in extracurricular activities and student organizations?

Yes! International students and scholars are strongly encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities. The University offers a vibrant campus community with numerous opportunities for involvement, including cultural clubs, academic and student organizations, sports teams, and volunteer initiatives.

Yes! International students and scholars are strongly encouraged to participate in
extracurricular activities. The University offers a vibrant campus community with numerous
opportunities for involvement, including cultural clubs, academic and student organizations,
sports teams, and volunteer initiatives. See here for more information about how international
students and scholars can thrive at Gallaudet University!

How can international prospects learn more about life at Gallaudet University?

International prospects can explore the University’s website at www.gallaudet.edu, attend virtual information sessions or webinars, connect with current international students or alumni, and contact the admissions offices or ISSS. Additionally, visiting the campus or participating in campus tours and events can provide valuable insights into life at Gallaudet University.

International prospects can explore the University, attend virtual information sessions or webinars, connect with current international students or alumni, and contact the admissions offices or ISSS. Additionally, visiting the campus or participating in campus tours and events can provide valuable insights into life at Gallaudet
University.

Tagged Admissions, Application Checklist, Graduate applicants, International, International Admissions, Special applicants, Undergraduate Applicants, Visiting applicants

Areas of Study

International Admissions

Gallaudet has deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing students from 40 countries, who each bring their unique perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences to our community.