Frequently Asked Questions

Program Requirements 

Can I take classes in my major while studying at the IEP?
IEP students in level four may be allowed to bridge one or two courses in their undergraduate classes. This is determined on an individual, case-by-case basis. 

Do I get credit for my IEP courses?
IEP courses are non-credit, pass/fail courses. However, undergraduate students may earn up to 18 semester units of credit in ESL coursework toward a bachelor's degree. Units earned in ESL coursework will be applied as elective credit toward the 124 units required to complete the bachelor's degree. A student wishing to receive degree-applicable credit for ESL coursework must apply for credit no later than the last day to drop a course for the term of application. 

Will the IEP courses be on my official transcripts?
Yes. All classes taken while in the Intensive English Program will appear on official CBU transcripts.

How long will I need to study at the IEP?
It depends on the level you place into. There are four levels in the IEP. Students must complete level four before they can start their undergraduate or graduate programs. Typically, a student will finish a level in one semester. Thus, if you test into level three, it will take two semesters to complete the IEP. 

If I pass the TOEFL or IELTS test, do I need to continue in the IEP?
If you achieve a passing score during the semester, you will need to complete the current semester in the IEP. Your scores, along with your semester grades and teacher recommendations, will be used to evaluate language preparedness for matriculation to your undergraduate or graduate program. 

What happens when I finish all the levels of the IEP?

• Undergraduate students who pass all their classes in level four and receive recommendation from their teachers and IEP program director may begin their undergraduate program at the next start date.
• Graduate students who pass all their classes in level four must take the IEP exit exam and get a score of 53 or higher. Once they have achieved this score, and their teachers and graduate program director have recommended them to begin graduate work, they may start their graduate program at the next start date.

Am I required to buy textbooks?
Yes. You are required to buy new textbooks for all of your classes. You can find the required textbooks in the CBU Bookstore. 

How many times can I take the placement test?
Students may only take the IEP placement test one time.

Do I have to be enrolled full time?
All international students with an F-1 visa must be enrolled in full-time studies.

Costs and Financial Aid

What is the total cost of studying at the IEP?
The total cost depends on how many semesters a student studies in the IEP. Students pay per unit plus additional student fees. For more information on total costs per semester, visit the International Admissions tuition and fees page.

Can I receive financial aid while I am in the IEP?
Financial aid is not available for students studying in the IEP. However, the cost of IEP classes is significantly lower than the courses in degree programs.

Does my academic scholarship cover IEP classes?
No. The IEP is considered a pre-academic program, so academic scholarships go into effect once students matriculate into graduate or undergraduate classes.

Housing and Student Life

What kind of housing is provided? 
Undergraduate students typically live on campus in traditional dorms or apartment-style housing. Graduate and married students can rent apartments, condos and houses in the area. For more information about on-campus and off-campus housing, visit International Student and Scholar Services. 

Do I need to purchase health insurance?
Yes. When you become a student at CBU, you will receive health insurance through United Healthcare as part of your student fees. You will pay for the medical insurance as part of your student accounts fee two times a year: fall and spring. For more information about healthcare, visit the International Student and Scholar Services website.

How can I get involved on campus and meet friends?
There are many ways to meet friends and get involved on campus. The university has a vibrant campus life, with events like Midnight Madness, Late Night Breakfast, and Coffeehouse Concerts. There are over 60 clubs that students can join, ranging from academic to social clubs. The International Center also sponsors events for both international and domestic students, such as cultural cafes, Taste the Nations, and the Festival of Color. IEP students also meet weekly with conversation partners who are American students studying at CBU.