International Student Admissions at Otterbein University

Application Requirements for first year and transfer students

If you are an international student seeking an F1 student visa graduating high school with no college credits, you should be completing the Common Application.

All other international students seeking an F1 student visa should complete this application.

Otterbein University does not fund international students at 100%. Scholarships are available based upon grades and overall strength of the application.

International students seeking an F1 student visa must be degree seeking. Otterbein will only accept official transcripts and test scores sent directly from the issuing institution. Otterbein prefers to receive all official transcripts and test scores electronically.

Additional Materials and Important Notes

Upon acceptance, all international students will be asked to submit additional documents of support such as:

• Official Bank Statements
• Financial Affidavit
• Copy of passport and current visa (if applicable).

In addition, please note the following:

• All test scores must be reported directly from the testing center.
• Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, a certified translator or English teacher.
• SAT and ACT test scores and letters of recommendation are optional and may be submitted if they strengthen your application.

Credential Evaluation

If a student’s university transcript is from an institution outside the United States, a course-by-course evaluation of all post-secondary education must be provided by a company such as SpanTran, WES, Scholaro, or ECE.  These credential evaluators charge a nominal fee for this service, which will be reimbursed to students that enroll at Otterbein University.  To verify if your credential evaluation company will be accepted, please contact an admission counselor.

Proof of English Proficiency

Non-native speakers of English must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting official test scores of one of the following tests.

• 79 or higher on the Internet-based TOEFL (iBT).
• 550 or higher on the paper-based TOEFL (PBT).
• 53 or higher on the Pearson PTE
• 6.5 or higher on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• 105 or higher on the Duolingo English Test.
• 21 or higher on the English section of the ACT Test.
• 550 or higher on the Evidence-based Reading and Writing (ERW) section on the SAT.
• 112 Level Certificate from ELS.
• 681 or higher on the TOEIC.

Admission Criteria

Admission to Otterbein is based on a student’s overall potential for academic success. Decisions are made after a holistic review. Student will less than 30 earned semester hours or 45 quarter hours AFTER high school graduation are reviewed on final high school transcripts, including ACT or SAT scores. Students who have completed more than 30 earned semester hours or 45 quarter hours are reviewed based upon cumulative GPA of all post-secondary transcripts. Otterbein places more emphasis on the academic transcript, as we believe it is one of the best indicators of student success and college preparation. Each student is also considered for the unique talents and contributions he or she will offer the Otterbein community.

Special Enrollment

Enrollment in the Athletic Training, Education, Engineering, Honors, Nursing, Osteopathic Medicine Early Assurance and Zoo and Conservation Science programs have additional academic requirements. Details are available from the Office of Admission. Otterbein University is committed to providing a learning and working environment that is free from discrimination. Otterbein does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or veteran status in admissions, in access to, or in treatment within its educational programs or activities, in employment, recruiting, or policy administration.

Auditions

Some departments require an audition or portfolio review for admission. Theatre and Music require an audition. Art requires a portfolio review. Additional details are available from the Office of Admission. Each department coordinates the process a little differently, so read carefully and do not hesitate to call the Office of Admission at 614-823-1500, or any of the individual departments if you have questions.

• Art Department Portfolio Review
• Music Auditions
• Theatre Auditions

Below are estimated expenses for an academic year.  Please note the room and board rates represent base amounts.  Actual charges may vary depending on your room assignment and chosen area of study and are subject to change.

• Full-time tuition $34,424
• On-campus room and board $12,768
• Other living expenses (fees, books, supplies, insurance) $5,562
• Total $52,604

Talent & Departmental Scholarships ($500 – $4,000)

Otterbein recognizes individual talents, experiences and passions through special interest awards in art, dance, music, theatre, community service, student leadership, and other talents. These awards are given on the basis of demonstrated involvement as determined by holistic review of the application.

Otterbein University is known for its commitment to educating the whole person and hands-on learning.At Otterbein, students experience small classes (average class size is 18-20) taught by faculty who know and care about their students. Your academic experience will be individually crafted alongside your academic adviser.

The Resident Experience

We offer an integrated learning environment with U.S. students and offer English language support when needed. You will stay on track to graduate as Otterbein faculty and staff help you select courses that will transfer back to your home institution.

Otterbein Semester students live and eat on campus with their fellow U.S. students, so it is truly an immersive experience. Students are also matched to Otterbein (non-residential) host families to provide students a “home” away from campus.

How to Apply

• Online Application, including essay
• $150 Enrollment fee
• Official University Transcripts
• English Proficiency Requirements
  
• Official bank statement and Sponsor Guarantee form
• Passport copy

Is there any type of financial assistance at your institution?
Yes, Otterbein offers merit-based financial assistance. Please see our scholarships information, above, to learn more about our offerings.

May I work?
International students studying on an F-1 visa are permitted to work on campus up to 20 hours per week.

Will you help me with applying for a student visa?
We will give you advice on how to apply for a student visa, but it will be your own responsibility to apply for the visa, and to make sure you will have all the necessary documents for its process.

After I submit my documents, how long will it take for me to receive notification of my admission status?
Assuming we have all your documents, it generally takes 2-4 weeks for us to process your application. Generally, it takes about a month or so before you receive your acceptance letter and I-20 (after you submit all your documents). It could take months if you do not have all the necessary documents. So make sure you submit all the necessary documents. Keep in mind we do not accept copies or unofficial academic records.

Does Otterbein provide rooms for international students?
Yes, room and board are guaranteed for all undergraduate and off semester students who want to live on campus. ESL students have the option to live on campus so long as there is space available.

Can international students stay in their rooms during holidays or long breaks?
During winter and summer break, international students may request to live on campus and will be assigned to a different residence hall which will accommodate every student who wishes to stay on campus during those breaks.

Will someone come to pick me up at the airport when I arrive in Columbus?
Yes, we will make all the necessary arrangements so that you will be picked up and brought to the campus when you arrive.