Chart a New Path

Complete the Admissions application on ApplyTexas or CommonApp and pay the $90 application fee.

SHSU strongly encourages international students currently outside the U.S. to apply at least 90 days before the beginning of the semester for which they are applying. Some graduate programs may have earlier deadlines.

If English is not your first language and your high school or previous college is not on SHSU’s list of official English language nations, you must provide proof of English proficiency. This applies to international freshmen, international transfer students, and transfer students from U.S. colleges with fewer than 30 transferable hours.

Submit one of the following minimum scores:

• TOEFL iBT / TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition: 69 or higher

• IELTS: 6.0 or higher

• Duolingo English Test (DET/EPT): 100 or higher

• ACT Verbal: 27 or higher

• SAT Verbal: 600 or higher

• IB English SL: score of 4 or higher

• Cambridge English O-Level: grade of C or higher

• CXC, CCSLC, CSEC, or CAPE English: score of IV (4) or higher

• Grade of C or better in English Composition I from a regionally-accredited U.S. college or university

• Successful completion of an intensive English program recognized by SHSU or TIEC

Test score waivers may be considered for applicants who completed high school or college coursework where English was the language of instruction. Waiver eligibility is determined after review of official transcripts.

Official English Language Nations

Students from countries that recognize English as an official language may be exempt from the English Proficiency requirement. SHSU will verify the language of instruction through official transcripts. Review the official list to confirm eligibility.

Official Nations List

Submit your official academic transcript(s) in a sealed envelope by mail or in person, or have them sent electronically from your school. Transcripts must be official and issued directly by the institution or approved evaluation service.

Electronic delivery (preferred):
Ask your school to send transcripts electronically using SHSU school code 003606 or by email to admissions@shsu.edu.

Mailing Address:
Sam Houston State University
Undergraduate Admissions Office
Box 2418
Huntsville, TX 77341-2418

Physical Delivery (in person or courier):
Sam Houston State University
Undergraduate Admissions Office
1905 University Ave
Huntsville, TX 77340

If any transcript is issued in a language other than English, a certified English translation must also be submitted.

If any transcript or document is issued in a language other than English, you must also submit a certified English translation. Translations must be completed by a certified translator or a NACES-accredited evaluation company. SHSU may request additional documentation to verify academic records.

Mailing Address:
Sam Houston State University
Undergraduate Admissions Office
Box 2418
Huntsville, TX 77341-2418

Physical Address (for in-person or courier delivery):
Sam Houston State University
Undergraduate Admissions Office
1905 University Ave
Huntsville, TX 77340

Provide a copy of your valid passport and required immunization records. Texas law requires proof of bacterial meningitis vaccination for students under 22 years of age. Records must meet state guidelines and be submitted before you can register for classes.

Submit proof of financial support demonstrating the ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for one academic year. Documentation may include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or government funding forms. All financial documents must be official and issued within the last six months.

If you will bring dependents to the U.S., additional financial support will be required.

After you are admitted and have submitted all required documents, SHSU will issue an I-20 form. You will use this form to apply for an F-1 student visa in your home country. Bring your I-20, passport, and financial documentation to your visa appointment. You must have a valid F-1 visa to enter the United States and enroll at SHSU.

Submit official documentation showing the ability to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for one academic year. Documentation may include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or government funding forms. Additional financial support is required if you will bring dependents to the U.S. Visit the Global Engagement Center for more details.

If you are an international transfer student and have dependents who will come with you to the U.S., you must provide each dependent’s full name, date of birth, country of citizenship, and their relationship to you. For each dependent, the dollar amount of financial support must be increased by $4000 per dependent. Visit the Global Engagement Center for more details.

Regardless of current residency, you must provide a home country address for your I-20 A/B form to be processed.

You must provide copies of documents such as your passport photo page and additional documents if you are transferring from a U.S. institution.

Upon arrival to campus, you must check in at the Global Engagement Center.

You are required to purchase the University’s Group Hospitalization, Medical Evacuation, and Repatriation Insurance, which is available to all eligible SHSU students. More information on this required coverage can be accessed through the University Health Center by calling 936.294.4737.