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Topic 11: International Student Services

The International Student Liaison (ISL) program
The purpose of the ISL program is to help new international students make a smooth transition to SPP and the local area by connecting them to current SPP students.

What to expect from the ISL program:

You will have a current SPP student as a point of contact throughout the semester.
You can reach out to your ISL over the phone or email with any questions you may have about adjusting graduate studies in the United States.
You can attend SPP events (social, academic, or career) with your ISL fellow student

Are you a new international student interested in the ISL program?
Please fill out the International Student application form and return it to Silva Pecini in Founders Hall, Student Services, Suite 560, or at specini@gmu.edu.

Are you a current SPP student interested in being part of the ISL program?
Please fill out the ISL program application form and return it to Founders Hall, Student Services, Suite 560, or at specini@gmu.edu. ISL participants choose their level of involvement based on their interests and availability.

Required English Language Assessment
As a condition of graduate admission to the School of Public Policy, international students who are admitted to SPP and are not a part of the the Bridge Program will be required to take a comprehensive English language exam through the English Language Institute (ELI). Based on the results of this assessment, international students may be required to complete an English writing and/or speaking course through ELI. Please note that students are responsible for the tuition charges associated with any mandated ELI coursework. Additionally, taking ELI coursework may require a reduced credit load with the School of Public Policy during the first semester of study, possibly extending the time required to complete the master’s degree requirements. Specific information regarding this exam is provided to all international students after admission into SPP.

The Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS)
In addition to assisting international students with visa and regulatory issues, OIPS offers cultural and social events and programs and assists international students in their adjustment to studying in the United States. OIPS also hosts international student orientation each semester. More information about OIPS services and programs can be found at: http://oips.gmu.edu/index.html

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SPP tuition for in-state students is approximately half the cost of the tuition at private competitors in the D.C. area.

Employer information sessions are offered each semester with public, private, and nonprofit organizations such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, RAND, Third Way, and the Department of Treasury.

More than 70% of SPP students are employed while pursuing their degrees -- classes are offered in the late afternoon and early evening to accommodate full- and part-time students.