International Students

West Building, W207M
(425) 739-8145
international.students@lwtc.edu

Lake Washington Technical College is committed to providing an excellent educational experience for international students. We value the diversity of perspectives and experiences that international students bring to the college, and are dedicated to making the international student experience rewarding and memorable. International Programs provides international student orientation, workshops and seminars, highly personalized individual attention, and specialized immigration and visa support. No TOEFL is required, and international students are welcome to enter the more than 100 degree and certificate options available at Lake Washington Technical College.

International students have an opportunity to earn a Certificate of Proficiency, Certificate of Completion, or an Associate of Applied Science degree upon completion of their full-time technical program. Internships are a major componant of most programs.

LWTC provides many opportunities for international student involvement in campus activities. Leadership skills may be gained by participation in student government. We have a large and active International Club to enable students to connect with each other and the campus.

The application and visa procurement process for international students may take as long as a quarter, so students should apply early. The priority application deadline is one quarter prior to the quarter of enrollment. Late applicants are accepted and processed on a rolling basis. Every attempt is made to process application materials as quickly as possible. International students applying for an F1 or M1 visa must submit the following to the international program office:

1. An international student application.
2. An international student budget form as proof of financial independence. Financial aid in the form of scholarships, loans, and grants is generally not available to international students, especially during the first quarter of attendance. The amount required for this document is subject to changes in tuition and fees.
3. Evidence of enrollment in an approved health insurance plan. Health plan options are available through the college at time of enrollment.
4. Evidence of good standing with U.S. Immigration Service.
5. Official transcripts from all previous colleges attended.
6. A short handwritten essay about yourself and why you would like to study at Lake Washington Technical College.
7. Results of the TOEFL exam taken during the past year with a score of 480 (written test), 157 (computer based test) for admissions to professional-technical programs of study requiring F1 or M1 student visas. Lower test scores or students without TOEFL scores will be considered for acceptance to the Intensive English Program.
8. International student application fee.
9. Other information as required.

The international program office will issue an I-20 form to the student, following acceptance to the college.

Additionally, international students must:

1. Meet all general admission requirements.
2. Agree to comply with all college regulations.
3. Agree to attend all quarters on a full-time basis as prescribed by Lake Washington Technical College and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Credit loads may vary depending on program requirements.
4. Maintain grade point average and credit completion requirements necessary for graduation and to remain in status.
5. Agree to file a yearly tax return with the United States Internal Revenue Service.

Program Admission Requirements

Certain professional-technical programs have specific admissions requirements, such as minimum test scores, satisfactory performance in prerequisite courses, and other screening criteria. Enrollment Services and the instructional divisions have current program admissions requirements. Applicants pursuing transfer to a bachelor’s program or full-time English Language training must apply for an F1 visa.

International Student Tuition

The tuition for international students is charged to all visa holders except A, E, G, I, K, and L. Documentation of visa status is established by Enrollment Services. Refer to the current tuition schedule for costs. The college may enter into contract training with other organizations and establish a different rate of tuition or fees in some cases.

Estimated costs for international students include (2006-2007 estimates in USD):

For one quarter (3 months):
Tuition (15 credits)	$1,750.00
Books	346.00
Cost of living	3,280.00
Mandatory medical insurance	180.00
Total	$5,556.00
For three quarters (9 months):
Tuition (15 credits)	$5,250.00
Books	1,038.00
Cost of living	9,840.00
Mandatory medical insurance	540.00
Total	$16,668.00

Our international program office can recommend local organizations that will assist international students with housing.

Contact Information:
International Programs
Lake Washington Technical College
11605 132nd Avenue NE
Kirkland, WA 98034

Telephone: (425)739-8145
Fax: (425)739-8110
E-mail: international.students@lwtc.edu
Web: www.lwtc.edu/international

International students are required to inform the International Program Office of change of address immediately to stay in status. A Change of Address card should also be sent to the U.S. Justice Department. Lake Washington Technical College's International Program Office will provide this card to the international student.