JMU graduates lined up on a sports field

How to apply

How to apply

University admission for international students

Admission to James Madison University, whether through the International Year or by direct admission, is simple and fast.

Complete our online application form

Use our online form to apply. If you don't have all your information available right now, you can save your application and return to it at a later date. You can also submit your supporting documents via the form or you will be sent a secure link to provide them later.

Once your application has been received, a student enrollment advisor will review it and contact you directly. After your application has been approved, an advisor will let you know how to pay your deposit to secure your place with us.

What documents do I need to send?

Official scanned documents are accepted for the application process, but original or official academic records are required prior to or upon arrival at the University.

Documents can be sent with your application or, if you are sending additional documents after applying, you will be advised how to do this. If any of your original documents are not written in English, they must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

What to send:

  • A complete and accurate application form including your intended degree program, email address and telephone number
  • Official score from English language proficiency test: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, Password and Embassy English tests accepted*
  • Certified, full transcripts of all academic qualifications, translated with translation authenticated
  • Certified, proof of graduation, translated, with translation authenticated if available, at the time of application
  • Personal Statement (optional)
  • Letter of Recommendation (optional)
  • Identification pages of your passport
  • Copy of your current I-20 and visa, if applicable
  • Certified bank statement (issued within 3 months) translated into English; statement must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover minimum of one year of academic study

* Password and Embassy English test scores not accepted for Direct Admission.

Once you receive your university offer

Confirm

  • Sign Acceptance of Offer documents and pay enrollment deposit
  • Receive I-20, pay SEVIS fee and schedule your visa appointment

Before you arrive

  • Notify us when you receive your visa
  • Submit James Madison University Immunization form
  • Submit flight arrival form
  • Submit accommodation request and documents
  • Complete MyMadison account activation online (if you are joining the University via direct admit)
  • Request original or official academic records for previous institutions (must be presented upon arrival at orientation)
  • Review the International Student Guidebook

When you arrive

  • Bring your original official academic records, including previous university academic records, in sealed envelopes with the school stamp or seal
  •  Check-in with James Madison University

Application deadline

We offer rolling admissions so you can submit your application at any time, and will be considered for the next available intake. We recommend that you apply as early as possible, to allow time for the visa application process.

Your completed application form and all supporting documents must be submitted by these dates:

Preferred start date

Preferred Start DateApplication DeadlineStart Date
Spring 2024 (ISC and Direct Admission)November 20, 2023January 16, 2024
Summer 2024 (ISC)TBDMay 20, 2024
Fall 2024 (ISC and Direct Admission)TBDAugust 21, 2024
Antonio, from Mexico

What our students say

“As soon as my middle school teacher introduced JMU to me, I fell in love with it. I was excited to hear about the student clubs and activities on campus, and I knew I would have a good time at JMU. Now that I’ve been here for a few months, I joined APO, a frat that has become my second family, and the rowing club. I love the life I've been able to build here in so little time.”

Antonio, from Mexico. Studying Marketing.

James Madison University cheerleaders

Entry requirements

Find out what grades you need in order to join us at the International Study Center, for either our International Year or direct admission to the University. 

The James Madison University football team

Fees

There are different fees with studying at James Madison University and the International Study Center. Discover what the associated costs are and prepare to join us.

James Madison University students studying together

Term dates

Ready to join us? Discover at what entry points you can begin your program with us at James Madison University and the International Study Center.

James Madison University students walking through campus

Visa information

Know what visa you need to join us? Find out more about visa information and the visa application process with our helpful guide. 

Students sat on the James Madison University statue

Before you arrive

We can’t wait to meet you! To make sure you’re fully prepared before you arrive on campus, check out our useful pre-arrival guide.