Admissions Requirements
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Admissions Requirements: International Transfer
Thanks for your interest in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln! All admissions materials are to be uploaded via MyRED to complete your application.
You can contact the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to apply for admission by yourself. You are not required to use an agent to apply for admission or enroll at the University of Nebraska. If you chose to use someone to assist you in applying for admission or enroll for classes, that is your responsibility.
Completed Coursework Requirements
- A broad section of course work in English
- Native language courses
- Math
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
English Proficiency
Non-native English speakers must submit a TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo score demonstrating proficiency in English. Please ask the testing agency or provider to send your scores directly to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
If you do not meet proficiency requirements, you can still be offered conditional admission.
For more detailed information, see the English Proficiency requirements on this page.
ACT/SAT Requirements
ACT/SAT tests are not required for admission to Nebraska but may be required for entry into specific colleges.
Colleges that require ACT / SAT scores:
- College of Architecture
- College of Engineering
Bank Statement Requirements
In order to be issued I-20, you must submit a bank statement to your MyRED account to show sufficient support for the first year of study.
You will still be evaluated for admission without submitting the bank statement, but admission letters and I-20s will not be sent until the bank statement requirement has been met.
Statements must include:
- Student's name
- NUID Number
NOTE: Scholarship letters can be used in place of bank statements
Items not Required
Letters of recommendation and essays are NOT required for admission.
English Proficiency
All non-native English speakers are required to demonstrate English proficiency for full admission to their degree program.
Learn MoreEnglish Proficiency
English Proficiency Test Requirements
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo scores. Please ask the testing provider to send your scores directly to to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Graduation from a high school in the United States will also waive the English proficiency requirement.
SAT/ACT scores may be acceptable to indicate that you meet the English proficiency requirements. Contact admissions@unl.edu on how to submit your SAT/ACT scores.
If you have not taken an English Proficiency Exam, please contact one of the following test agencies:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- Use our school code, 6877, to send your score to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Programs in English as a Second Language
- Duolingo
Note: Students suspected of submitting false English proficiency scores will be required to take the institutional English language test and may be subject to dismissal from the university.
English Proficiency Deadlines
To be fully-admitted, you must meet English proficiency by the following deadlines:
- Fall Term: July 15
- Spring Term: December 1
- Summer Term: May 1
If you are unable to meet these deadlines you will be required to enroll in the Intensive English Program or move your admission to the next term. Email admissions@unl.edu to change your application term.
Accepting Duolingo English Test
The Undergraduate Admissions Office at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln accepts the use of the Duolingo English Test to demonstrate English Proficiency. Duolingo English Tests will be accepted with a required minimum score of 100.
The exam costs US$49 and may be taken from any computer that has a camera, audio and reliable internet. The exam will take about 45 minutes to complete, and you will need either a passport, driver's license or national/state ID to show the camera. The score results are generally received within 48 hours.
Information on preparing for the exam
Take the exam or practice exam
A verification email will be sent to you a few days after completing the exam containing a link to send your score to UNL.
For additional information, please review the frequently asked questions and check the University website periodically for updates.
English Proficiency Tests and Minimum Scores
English Proficiency Test | Score |
---|---|
TOEFL Internet-Based | 70 (20 Writing Subscore) |
TOEFL Paper-Based | 523 composite |
IELTS | 6.0 composite (5.5 Writing Subscore) |
University of Nebraska–Lincoln English Language Test (ELT) | 74 |
ACT English Subscore | 20 |
SAT Reading Subscore | 26 |
Duolingo English Test | 100 |
Graduation from a high school in the United States | |
Completion of 30 semester hours (or equivalent) of coursework at a college or community college in the United States |
Credit English as a Second Language Courses (CESL)
Some fully-admitted students may be required to take English language support courses during the first year to help them better excel in their academic studies. These are UNL credit-bearing courses and will be taken in conjunction with other academic courses. Learn more about these courses and how students are placed into them by visiting the Credit English as a Second Language (CESL) website.
Other Options to Study at Nebraska if you do not meet the English Proficiency Requirements
If you do not demonstrate English proficiency at the time of admission review you will be considered for conditional admission to Nebraska and will be able to attend the Nebraska Intensive English Program.
Upon completing the Intensive English Program with a passing score on the University English Language Test or University Institutional TOEFL, you will then be fully admitted to enroll for the next available academic term.
You will still be required to meet the English proficiency deadlines for that term.
Conditionally admitted students are not eligible for University institutional academic scholarships.
More InformationIntensive English Program
The IEP is for students who are conditionally admitted and students who wish to study English in the United States.
- Intensive English language study is 23 hours of coursework per week
- Sessions begin in each academic term
- All levels of study
Specific College English Requirements
Some departments and colleges require additional English proficiency scores and ACT or SAT scores for direct admission into their programs. Students who are not initially admitted into their major will be enrolled in a major of General Studies until they have met performance requirements for their major.
Architecture (Pre-Architecture and Pre-Interior Design)
80 Internet-Based TOEFL
or 550 Paper-Based TOEFL
or 6.5 IELTS, or ACT English Subscore 22
or SAT Critical Reading Subscore of 480
or University of Nebraska–Lincoln English Language Test 80
Education and Human Sciences
79 Internet-Based TOEFL
or 550 Paper-Based TOEFL
or 6.5 IELTS, or ACT English Subscore 22
or SAT Critical Reading Subscore of 480
or University of Nebraska–Lincoln English Language Test 80
Engineering
80 Internet-Based TOEFL
or 550 Paper-Based TOEFL
or 6.5 IELTS, or ACT English Subscore 22
or SAT Critical Reading Subscore of 480
or University of Nebraska–Lincoln English Language Test 80
Journalism and Mass Communications
100 Internet-Based TOEFL
or 600 Paper-Based TOEFL
or 7.0 IELTS
or ACT English Subscore 24
or SAT Critical Reading Subscore of 500
or University of Nebraska–Lincoln English Language Test 85
Admission Checklist
Apply
Review the materials you'll need before starting an application. Complete the application online. You can also apply through the Common App.
Apply NowCheck Your Application Status
Check MyRED to check your application status and verify all documents have been submitted to complete your application.
MyREDPay Enrollment Deposit
Once you're admitted, pay the $250 enrollment deposit to reserve your place at Nebraska.
Learn MoreObtain I-20
After you are notified of your admission status, we will email instructions about obtaining your I-20 or visa.
Learn MoreSign Housing Contract
After you pay your enrollment deposit, you can sign up for on-campus housing through MyRED.
University HousingSubmit English Proficiency Scores
If you're conditionally-admitted, you may submit English proficiency scores up until your term's deadline to become fully-admitted.
Learn MorePrepare for Arrival
There are a few health requirements to complete and prepare for before you arrive on campus.
Learn MorePre-Enrollment Health Requirements & Information
All incoming students must submit the Pre-Enrollment Health Requirement Form through MyRED.
In addition, all international students must complete the following health requirements at the University Health Center:
- Provide proof of two rubeola/measles MMR immunizations or positive rubeola lab result
- Undergo a tuberculosis test
For students who have the University of Nebraska's StudentBlue Insurance Plan, the cost of the Pre-Enrollment Health Requirement is covered 100%.
Health Insurance
- The University will automatically enroll all international students (F1 and J1) in StudentBlue Health Insurance.
- You may waive the insurance plan if you show documentation of a comparable medical insurance plan. Proof consists of a plan in your name and the document must be in English.
- Deadline to waive the health insurance is the 14th day of class each semester.
Meningococcal Vaccine
Meningococcal disease is a rare infection with potentially devastating results. The vaccine is recommended for first year students living in university residences but is not required by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Once you get to Lincoln...
International Orientation is a required event for all new international students when you arrive on campus.
International OrientationCheck Your Admission Status
Log into MyRED to:
- Check your application status.
- Apply to the University Honors Program and the Raikes School.
- Pay your enrollment deposit.
- Submit a housing contract.
- Submit a required bank statement.
- Submit a passport photocopy.
- Register for New Student Enrollment.
Admission of Students on the Basis of Special Merit
Applicants who do not qualify for assured admission will automatically be considered for full admission to the University on the basis of special merit. The special merit process will make provisions for a variety of circumstances, including allowance for the special consideration to be given to: non- traditional students; returning adult students; students educated at home schools; students who do not meet the required performance criteria but who have performed at a high level of accomplishment towards the conclusion of their high school careers (sometimes called "late bloomers"); students who can provide evidence of special talents, such as outstanding musical performers; those with unique educational experience or career achievements, etc. Such students will be encouraged to provide evidence of their ability to do University level work. In addition, special consideration will be given to members of under-represented groups who present evidence of being able to succeed. Such applications will be considered by University admissions personnel following established policies and procedures. It must be emphasized that students once admitted through this process will be considered fully admitted and will not be considered by the University to have a provisional status. However, some students may have to complete specific University courses to compensate for having not completed all of the required core courses or equivalent educational attainments.
Admissions Committee
Per Admissions Office Procedures Manual in Accordance with RP- 5.2.1-4b—an Admissions Committees may admit students that do not meet the Board of Regents assured admissions requirements for full admission. These decisions are based upon a holistic review of an individual applicants student record including but not limited to: academic achievement (GPA, academic courses, class rank, standardized test scores), high school course availability, recommendation letters, and retention services. The Admissions Committee will utilize this information through the holistic review process to determine whether there are other indicia in the record that would contribute to the applicant's academic success at the University. The Office of Admissions has three committees that perform the above described work: Freshman; Transfer/International and Special Circumstances.
The Special Circumstances Committee will holistically review applicants with special merit that are required to participate in intrusive and successful retention programs such as, but not limited to, Nebraska College Preparatory Academy, William H. Thompson Scholars, and Nebraska Athletics Support Services. The Director of Admissions must approve retention programs to be considered for the Special Circumstances Committee. Members of this committee will be appointed by the Director of Admissions.
Admission Based Upon Special Talents
In Accordance with RP- 5.2.1-4b, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln may admit students with special talents who do not meet the Board of Regents assured admissions requirements for full admission. Prospective students who do not meet assured admission requirements and who can provide evidence of special talents, such as outstanding artistic skills, unique educational experience or remarkable career achievements can be considered for admission with executive-level sponsorship. Each academic college and the Athletic Department are permitted to recommend no more than five special talent appeals to the director of admissions each academic year. To be considered for admission based on special talent, an applicant must:
- Identify an executive sponsor (executive-level sponsors are considered a college dean, associate dean, the athletic director or associate athletic director):
- The executive sponsor must write a letter of reference to the director of admissions which details the prospective student's special talent, explains why the sponsor believes the student is deserving of admission and provides specifics regarding how the unit will academically ensure the student's success;
- The prospective student may request an executive sponsorship before or after an initial admission decision has been determined:
- If the prospective student requests admission based upon special talents prior to applying for admission, the executive
sponsor's reference letter should be accompanied with unofficial of transcripts, standardized test scores, and English
proficiency scores (for all international students or students for whom English is a second language);
- In this case, the director of admissions will review the unofficial documents and executive sponsor's reference letter and will make a provisional admissions decision—pending the student's formal application for admission and submission of official documents by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's established admissions deadlines;
- If the student requests admission based upon special talents after an initial admission decision, the prospective
student may request an executive sponsor send the reference letter to the director of admissions;
- The executive sponsor should include the prospective student's birthdate and NUID number in the letter;
- The director of admissions will review the prospective student's academic file and notify the applicant and executive sponsor of the admission decision.
- If the prospective student requests admission based upon special talents prior to applying for admission, the executive
sponsor's reference letter should be accompanied with unofficial of transcripts, standardized test scores, and English
proficiency scores (for all international students or students for whom English is a second language);
Don't Forget
After meeting these requirements, you have to apply for admission and pay the $45 application fee to be considered for admission.
Applications After Published Admissions Deadlines
Any application received after the published deadline will be placed on a wait-list. The admissions committee will prioritize the wait-list based upon candidates that meet the University's assured admission requirements.
Find out more about University of Nebraska–Lincoln assured admission requirements.
Please note there is no guarantee of admission for wait-list applicants.
College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources
Category | Requirements |
---|---|
PGA Golf Management
Students |
A 12 Handicap is required for students entering into this program. For More Information, please visit: https://pgm.unl.edu/requirements. |
Core Courses
Category | Requirements |
---|---|
English | 4 units of English: Units must include intensive reading and writing experiences. |
Mathematics | 4 units of math:
|
Social Sciences | 3 units of social sciences:
|
Natural Sciences | 3 units of natural sciences:
|
Foreign Language | 2 units of foreign language:
|
College Specific Requirements
All colleges at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln require students meet the minimum core course and performance admission requirements. (as listed above)
Some colleges have additional requirements that students must meet in order to be admitted to their requested college.
The Explore Center
If you do not meet college specific requirements you can still be admitted through our Explore Center.
- you will be advised by the Explore Center until you meet the college specific requirements for your desired college.
- once you've met your college's requirements, you will have the opportunity to transfer into the college you requested.
Colleges With NO Additional Requirements
The colleges below do not have additional requirements beyond core course and performance requirements.
- College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources
- College of Arts & Sciences
- College of Education & Human Sciences
- College of Journalism & Mass Communications
Colleges With Additional Requirements
College of Architecture
Category | Requirements |
---|---|
Math |
|
ACT/SAT scores |
|
Transfer & Readmit Students | In addition to the above requirements, must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0. |
College of Business Administration
Category | Requirements |
---|---|
Transfer & Readmit Students | Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5. |
College of Engineering
Category | Requirements |
---|---|
Freshman Students | |
Math |
|
Natural Sciences | As part of the 3 units required you must take:
|
ACT/SAT Scores |
|
Transfer & Readmit Students |
|
Hixson-Lied College of Fine & Performing Arts
AUDITION AND/OR PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS
You must also meet any audition or portfolio requirements listed below:
Category | Requirements |
---|---|
Art, Art History: | No auditions or special applications. |
Music, Dance: | Auditions are required. |
Theatre emphasis in:
|
Auditions are required. View the Johnny Carson School of Theatre & Film audition information. |
Theatre emphasis in:
|
No portfolio or audition required. However, there is an optional portfolio for an additional scholarship. |
Theatre emphasis in:
|
Supporting materials required. View additional required materials. |
Transfer & Readmit Students | Film & New Media majors must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a semester GPA of 3.0. |
College of Public Affairs & Community Service
Category | Requirements |
---|---|
Transfer & Readmit
Students |
Must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5. |
Official Secondary School Transcripts and Certificate/Diploma
Send in your original secondary school transcripts.
- Include the original native language transcript and an English language translation.
- Copies and English translations must be stamped by the issuing institution, Education USA, Embassy, or a certified notary confirming it is a literal translation.
Submit a certificate or diploma confirming graduation from a secondary education institution.
- Include the original certificate or diploma in your native language as well as an English translation.
- Copies and English translations must be stamped by the issuing institution, Education USA, Embassy, or a certified notary confirming it is a literal translation.
- Application Fee
-
There is a $45 application fee payable online with a credit card.
- Additional Documents
-
In addition to the online application, International First-Year students are required to submit:
- Final secondary school transcript, preferably officially signed and stamped by a principal of secondary school
- Secondary school certificate/diploma
- English proficiency scores
- Bank statement
- Passport copy
- Additional Documents
-
In addition to the online application, International Transfer students are required to submit:
- Secondary school transcript
- Secondary school certificate/diploma
- University Transcript
- English proficiency scores
- Bank statement
- Additional Documents
-
In addition to the online application, International Visiting Students are required to submit:
- Exchange/Visiting application
- Secondary school transcript
- Secondary school certificate/diploma
- University Transcript
- English proficiency scores
- Bank statement
- Additional Documents
-
In addition to the online application, International Exchange students are required to submit:
- Exchange/Visiting application
- Secondary school transcript
- Secondary school certificate/diploma
- University Transcript
- English proficiency scores
- Bank statement
- Additional Documents
-
In addition to the online application, Intensive English Program students are required to submit:
- Bank Statement
- Deadlines
-
Summer/Fall – May 1
Spring – December 1
- English Proficiency Deadlines
-
To be fully-admitted, you must meet English proficiency by the following deadlines:
Fall Term – July 15
Spring Term – December 1
Summer Term – May 1