Degree Programs
SAIC offers undergraduate bachelor's degrees, generally following high/secondary school; graduate master's degrees, advanced study generally following a bachelor's degree programs; and post-baccalaureate certificates, advanced study generally following a bachelor's degree.
International students accepted to SAIC's Low-Res MFA must obtain an F-1 student visa to enter the United States to participate in the intensive on-site summer sessions. The structure of the program is low residency and nontraditional, which means important visa and immigration implications exist for international students who enroll in the program. Please consult the Low-Residency MFA Details [PDF] for important immigration details.
English for International Students (EIS)
Our English for International Students (EIS) courses serve to raise the English language proficiency of SAIC students whose native language is not English to an effective academic level at which they can successfully express complex thoughts when writing and effectively absorb abstract concepts from higher level textbooks.
Students whose TOEFL scores are below 96 IBT, 7.0 IELTS, or 65 PTE may be required to take English for International Students (EIS) fluency and critique classes before starting their other academic classes.
Classes are divided into the following categories:
- Fluency classes to improve your reading comprehension and academic writing skills.
- Critique classes to build your competence in giving critiques, participating in discussions, and giving presentations.
- Tutorials for ongoing support in language skills and fluency are available.
Low-Residency Master of Fine Arts Program (Low-Res MFA)
The Low-Res MFA works no differently for international students than it does for US residents with the exception of immigration and TOEFL requirements. International students can stay and study in the United States for the duration of the six-week residency only. Students will be permitted to enter the United States a few days before the residency begins and will be required to leave the United States a few days after the residency ends. It is important to note that international students in this program must remain outside of the U.S. between each residency. Please note that according to US immigration regulations, international students enrolled in the Low-Res MFA program are not permitted to work off campus while in the United States.
High School Early College Program (ECP)
Students of diverse backgrounds and experiences come to the Early College Program to strengthen their commitment to the study of art and design and develop a strong portfolio for college admission.
International Affairs recommends that students who plan to attend the Early College Program to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to determine the required immigration documents needed to enter the United States. You can locate your nearest Embassy or Consulate on the Department of State's website.
Continuing Studies
Continuing Studies at SAIC provides lifelong learning and the development of creative thought and practice in students of all ages. Non-degree classes are offered for children, middle school students, high school students, and adults. The Early College Program Summer Institute (ECPSI) is an intense and rigorous program specifically for high school students (ages 15–18) who are interested in strengthening their commitment to the study of art and design.
SAIC is only able to issue I-20s—also known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (F-1) Student Status-For Academic and Language Students—to students who are accepted to a degree, post-baccalaureate certificate, or the Early College Program Summer Institute (ECPSI). SAIC is not permitted to issue immigration support documents for international students participating in the other Continuing Studies program/courses.
