Apply as an International Student

As an international student at Oakton, you’ll find a friendly, diverse community that welcomes students from around the world.

If you’re not seeking an F-1 visa, you should apply using the standard application process. If you’re seeking an F-1 visa, the application process has a few additional components, and you’ll need to meet some extra requirements.

If you have questions along the way, please check our list of questions that international students ask, or contact us. We look forward to seeing you on campus!

Requirements

Before an international student is admitted to Oakton College and I-20 documents are issued, the College must confirm that:

  • the student has enough academic preparation to be successful at Oakton,
  • the student can pay tuition, fees and living expenses,
  • the student is proficient enough in the English language.
  • the student is in valid immigration status at the time of application.

Because of the time needed for processing, we recommend that applicants who live outside the United States submit the online international student application as soon as the application opens for the term. The application and all required documentation must be submitted no later than the application deadline for the term. 

All applicants are required to submit English Language proficiency. Oakton does not offer English as a Second Language program of study (ESL) for F-1 students, nor does the college issue I-20 forms for ESL study. Students must prove English proficiency in at least one of the following ways:

• A TOEFL IBT score of 68 or higher. TOEFL testing can be scheduled at Educational Testing Services, ets.org. TOEFL score reports are valid for two years. Oakton’s school code is 1573. The College must receive an “official” test report from TOEFL. Oakton does not accept Institutional TOEFL.

For more information or to arrange for testing, contact:

Educational Testing Service
P.O. Box 6155
Princeton, New Jersey 08541, USA
609.921.9000
ETS.org

• An Academic IELTS Overall Band score of 6.0 or higher. IELTS testing can be scheduled at IELTS.org. IELTS score reports are valid for two years.

• EGL 101 or its equivalency taken at a United States college or university. Please submit an official college/university transcript to Enrollment Services at: esoperations@oakton.edu

• High school diploma from a United States high school. Please submit an official high school transcript to Enrollment Services at: esoperations@oakton.edu

Note: Oakton College does not accept Duolingo test results to prove English Proficiency.

International Student Deadlines

Summer Term
February 1 - April 1
Classes begin in early June

Fall Term
February 1 - June 15
Classes begin in mid-August

Spring Term
June 1 - Nov. 1
Classes begin in mid-January

How to Apply as an International Student

Note: If you’re not seeking an F-1 student visa, you may apply using the general application process.

To apply to Oakton, you'll need to submit the following items:

  1. International Student Application for Admission
  2. The non-refundable application fee of $50 is payable in U.S. dollars. Paid after you apply.
  3. Applicants must be a new student residing overseas or must be in valid immigration status if they are already living in the United States.
    All applicants must upload a copy of their unexpired passport with their application. Students currently residing in the United States must also upload a copy of their most recent Form I-94, copy of their current visa, and current I-20 (if transferring to Oakton as an F-1 student).
  4. An online Affidavit of Financial Support form must also be completed by a student's sponsor, or a student may sponsor themselves if they have sufficient funds. Once the application has been submitted, an online form will be emailed to the identified sponsor to complete. The sponsor must also upload proof of financial ability to support the student by providing a bank statement(s) displaying at least $21,500 USD total for the first academic year (for anticipated tuition, fees, housing, transportation, and living expenses). A conversion to US dollars must be provided if applicable.
  5. Official transcripts and credentials from all secondary and post-secondary schools (including any college or university work).
    Submit current or most recent transcripts. Credentials must show proof that you completed high school and include an explanation of the grading or marking system, as well as a certified English translation if applicable. 
  6. Your English proficiency results. See above section "English Language Requirements."

Contact Us

Have questions about the application process for international students? We're here to help. Reach us at:

Office of Admission
Oakton College, Room 1740
1600 E. Golf Road,
Des Plaines, IL 60016
847.635.1700
admission@oakton.edu

General international student questions may be directed to Oakton's Designated School Official (DSO) at:

Ashley Burnett, PDSO
Oakton College, Room 1860
1600 E. Golf Road,
Des Plaines, IL 60016
847.635.1715
esoperations@oakton.edu