International Admissions Process

Admission Deadline: June 1

English Proficiency Requirements

You are required to display English proficiency before being admitted into the graduate programs at Biola University. You are required to submit standardized test scores (TOEFL) for application to Biola. Those without passing TOEFL scores are required to take the Biola English Placement Exam (BEPE) to determine which English course(s), if any, students must take during their first semester.

Required Scores:

A minimum TOEFL score of 100 IBT/600 paper/250 computer is required for admission to all graduate programs. 

If you have a score between 79 and 99 IBT, you may be admitted into the Master of Arts in Christian Education program while taking required English courses.  If so, you will have to show an extra $3,000 per year for English courses on the Affidavit of Support. 

If you have a TOEFL score below 79 IBT, you may be admitted but will be considered an English Language program student.

Admissions Requirements

• All international students must meet the same requirements for admission as U.S. citizens, and have successfully completed a course of study in their native country.

• Transfer international students must have completed satisfactory course work with an academic GPA equivalent to the program of application and obtained transfer authorization from previous institution.

• International students must subscribe to the Biola University international student health insurance policy and maintain coverage throughout their entire stay at Biola University.

Before You Begin Your Application

Biola University accepts applications only for the fall semester. You must have the equivalent of a bachelor's degree from an accredited, recognized institution.

A pre-application must be completed no later than February 1 for preferred consideration. The pre-application must be approved by the Graduate Admissions Office before you begin your application. You will be notified by the Graduate Admissions Office of approval within 2-3 weeks after submitting the completed pre-application.

Application Requirements

• An application for admission, references and a $55 non–refundable application fee.

• Official transcripts of all colleges, universities or seminaries attended must be sent directly from the school to Biola’s Office of Graduate Admission to be official. All transcripts must be accompanied by a certified English translation that documents coursework and examinations taken, indicates grades received, identifies passing and maximum marks, and evidences completion of a Bachelor’s degree.

• Before we can consider your application you must be able to demonstrate a substantial amount of financial support from your own resources. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will not allow us to issue I-20 forms (used to obtain student visas) without documented proof that the student has sufficient funds to study in this country. This means the applicant must raise 100% of the needed costs. The affidavit of support form assures us that you will receive support from a sponsor or your parent(s) for the necessary funds to support your education at Biola. We require that an official or notary public notarize the form. We also require that corresponding bank statements be attached. Download the Affidavit of Financial Support.

• Reference forms: please see the application for your particular program.