International Graduate Student (on-campus)

It is critical that you have support to cover your costs of attendance. While it is possible for a small number of students to work on campus, this is not guaranteed.              

Costs listed are estimates for a total of two semesters (one academic year) and are based on a course load of 9 credit hours (usually 3 classes) per semester. Costs for classes taken during summer or break periods are in addition to costs listed below.     

                Estimated Costs AY2023-24

International Scholarship – all international campus-based applicants are considered for the International Scholarship upon submission of the Application for Admission

Eligibility 

•  Admission to a graduate program
•  Limited to 4 semesters

 Estimated Costs with Scholarship AY2023-24

Retention requirements (to keep the scholarship each year of your program)

•  Full-time enrolment
•  2.75+ overall GPA
•  Must successfully earn 18+ credits each academic year

Employment – F-1 students are eligible for on-campus work only. Available positions are posted by our Office of Career Services on the Handshake platform, which is available in the student portal for admitted students only.

Campus-based international students enter the US as F-1 student visa holders.

 Steps to obtaining your F-1 visa

1. Receive your offer of admission
2. Receive your I-20 form (this can only be issued after LSUS has received both your Affidavit of Financial Support and a copy of your passport photo page)
3. Apply online for your Nonimmigrant Visa using the DS-160 Form 
4. Pay the visa application processing fee (costs listed on your local US Embassy or Consulate website)
5. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee 
6. Schedule your visa interview at your local US Embassy or Consulate
7. Attend your visa interview

F-1 student responsibilities

• Maintain valid passport
• Maintain full-time enrollment
• Obtain prior authorization before dropping below a full course of study
• Abide by US Federal Employment regulations
• Report address changes within 10 days to the International Student Office
• Report program changes (including program dates or level of study) to the International Student Office
• Notify the International Student Office of any dependents who will accompany you
• Obtain Transfer Authorization prior to transferring to another US institution
• Depart the US within the designated Grace Period

NB: This information is provided as unofficial guidance only and is subject to change without notice. Consult the US Department of State for the most accurate information.

Pilots Pointe Apartments accommodates over 300 students in luxurious studio, two-bedroom, or four-bedroom apartments. Floor plans feature spacious living areas, private bedrooms, and fully-furnished kitchens. An eight-foot perimeter fence surrounds the community with electronically controlled limited access. Amenities include an outdoor pool, sand volleyball court, and a clubhouse with a big screen TV. An academic environment coupled with an array of educational, recreational, and social programming, coordinated by an on-site residence-life staff, enhances the overall college experience for LSUS students. 

There are additional apartment options within walking distance of campus. It is highly recommended to arrange to view external accommodation in person before making any payments.

Arrival

We strongly recommend flying into Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) as it can be challenging and costly to arrange ground transportation from the closest hub airports (DFW – Dallas-Ft. Worth; IAH – Houston; or MSY – New Orleans). Since you will not be able to find a direct flight from your country to SHV, you will want to ensure that you allow 3-4 hour connection time at your airport of entry to go through the US Port of Entry and US Immigration and Customs.

• F-1 students may arrive in the US up to 30 days before the start of their first term, however do be aware of the costs of temporary housing.
• The International Arrival date each semester will be provided to students upon issuance of their immigration documents and is typically at least one day prior to scheduled New Student Orientation.
• Airport Meet-and-Greet is available only on official International Arrival dates and must be confirmed by the date requested in your welcome letter.
• Please keep the International Student Office advised of your travel arrangements and arrival.

Orientation

New Student Orientation is provided before each semester begins and is mandatory for international students!

• Spring 2024 – Express Orientation – Friday 5 January 2024 (undergraduate and graduate)
• Fall 2024 – New Student Orientation – Friday 16 August 2024 (undergraduate only)
• For the most up-to-date information on New Student Orientation, as well as other upcoming dates, go to visit.lsus.edu.