Q: I am an international student. Do I need to take the TOEFL?
A: Yes. All applicants, including US citizens and permanent residents, whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. The minimum TOEFL score for undergraduate programs is 61 iBT (500 paper-based). The minimum TOEFL score for Master of Music and Graduate Diploma programs is 79 iBT (550 paper-based). Students must submit official results of the TOEFL. Copies and student score reports are not acceptable, and will delay your application. Applicants who have completed a full-time, 4-year degree program at an English-speaking college/university may request an exemption from the TOEFL requirement in writing after they have submitted an application. Artist Diploma and DMA applicants do not need to submit a TOEFL score.
Q: If I took the IELTS, can I submit that instead of the TOEFL?
A: Although we recommend that all applicants submit TOEFL scores if necessary, we will look at IELTS as well. The minimum IELTS score for undergraduate programs is 6. The minimum IELTS score for the Master of Music and Graduate Diploma programs is 6.5.
Q: I am an international student who will need a student visa to attend NEC. How can I qualify for the I-20 form needed to get the F-1 student visa?
A: Once you have received your admission offer, you will need to submit a Certification of Finances form (which we will provide to you) and a bank statement showing that you have the funds needed to cover the entire cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses. You may deduct any scholarship received from NEC from the total cost. Once we have received the form, bank statement, and your enrollment paperwork and $500 tuition deposit, we will send the I-20 to you. The deadline for receipt of the Certification of Finances form and bank statement is May 15.
Q: What if I need the F-1 visa but cannot get you a bank statement showing the necessary funds by May 15?
A: We will accept the Certification of Finances form and bank statement after May 15, but your I-20 will be delayed. Since you might have to wait several months to get an appointment for a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, this delay may affect your ability to arrive in the U.S. in time for orientation. If you are accepted into NEC and cannot submit the forms and bank statement by May 15, you should contact the Office of Admission to let us know when we can expect the documents.
2009-08-07
JOHANNES BRAHMS