J-1 International Exchange Students
Whether you join Purdue University Northwest through the J-1 International Exchange Visitor Program to study for a semester, conduct research, or immerse yourself in American campus life, our Office of International Programs and Partnerships (IPP) is here to support you.
This page provides all the details on application processes, tuition and fees and required forms to help you get started!
In This Section
Helpful Links
How to Apply
PNW welcomes J-1 international exchange students from partner schools worldwide.
Follow these simple steps to apply:
Home University Nomination
- Your school must have an active exchange agreement with PNW.
- They send your nomination to exchange@pnw.edu.
Complete the Online Application
- You will get a link and instructions by email.
- Upload these documents:
- Passport copy
- Academic transcripts (in English)
- Proof of English (TOEFL, IELTS or letter from your school)
- Financial support documentation
- List of courses you want to take
Receive DS-2019 Form
- After we accept your application, PNW issues a DS-2019 form.
- You need this form to apply for your J-1 visa.
Apply for Your J-1 Visa
- Schedule a visa interview with the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Pay the SEVIS fee.
- Bring your passport, DS-2019 and other required documents.
Upon completion of these forms, IPP will share:
- Pre-arrival Guidance
- Housing Information
- Orientation Details
Follow these steps to start your exchange program smoothly:
- Check in with IPP and complete your SEVIS registration. This keeps your J-1 visa active.
- Attend the mandatory international student orientation. You will learn about academic policies, campus resources, healthcare, safety and daily life in the U.S. You’ll also meet other students, faculty, and staff.
- If you haven’t secured housing yet, ask PNW staff for help finding a place to live.
- Get your PNW student ID card.
- Confirm your course schedule. Email Brooke Hewson with the courses you are interested in, and IPP will assist you with registration.
- Walk around campus to locate your classrooms, dining options, libraries and student services.
Welcome to PNW! We are here to help you every step of the way.
Tuition and Other Expenses
The costs below are for a single semester. Double the amounts for a full academic year.
All costs are listed in USD.
Tuition and Fees
- International Exchange Students: tuition waived as part of the exchange balance
- Visiting/Fee-Paying Students: Consult the PNW tuition and fees page
Estimated Other Expenses
Required Proof of Financial Sponsorship Amount
Housing
- Campus housing is typically available for international students.
- Students apply for housing through the PNW student portal after receiving admission.
- Both the deposit and application fee are paid via the student portal.
- See Housing Costs
Requirements for J-1 Admission
Required Documents
- Online application (link sent by IPP)
- Official academic transcripts in English
- Official English test score report*
- Copy of your passport
- Completed course request form
- Visa questionnaire
- Proof of financial sponsorship
*If your home institution sends your transcript and English test score directly to PNW, unofficial copies are acceptable.
Sending Documents
IPP (Office of International Programs and Partnerships) will email the application link to nominated students and their home coordinators. Do not mail any admission documents until you receive this email.
Submit documentation from one of these tests with the minimum scores shown.
Please note: some programs may require higher scores.
| TOEFL (PBT) | iBT | IELTS | EIKEN (Japan Only) | TOEIC (Korea Only) |
| 550 or higher | 79 or higher | 6.5 or higher | B1 or higher | 751 or higher |
Students are required to provide proof of medical insurance that meets the following minimum coverage:
- A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.
- Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per person per accident or illness
- Repatration of remains in the amount of $25,000
- Expenses associated with medical evaluation in the amount of $50,000
- Offered by an insurance company based in or with offices in the United States
PNW’s International Student Insurance page provides information on a company that meets these minimum requirements.
Exchange students must have a form DS-2019 to apply for the appropriate visa to enter the United States.
To receive the DS-2019 form, accepted students will:
- Complete the PNW application process and provide the admission letter
- Submit bank statements in English showing you have enough funds to cover the full cost of your program
- Provide an up-to-date copy of your current and valid passport information page
- Provide current mailing address, e-mail and phone number
Additional costs associated with the immigration process to plan for include:
- Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee for making U.S. Embassy appointment to apply for the J1 visa: Information Link
- Pay the visa appointment fee directly to the U.S. Embassy where you’ll apply. Fees differ by country, so check that embassy’s website for the exact amount.
- Proof of medical insurance is required for immigration.