Frequently Asked Questions

Common abbreviations used in the FAQs:

BC – Broward College | DSO – Designated School Official | I-20 - Form I-2 | SEVP – Student and Exchange Visitor Program

SEVIS – Student and Exchange Visitor Information System | U.S. - United States | USCIS – U.S. Citizenship an Immigration Services

OPT – Optional Practical Training | ICE – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Yes, we issue the I-20 once the applicant has been admitted to the College. The estimated review period after your application is complete is 7 to 10 business days. During peak times, it may take 14 business days. Completed applications are reviewed in the order they were received.

Proof of English proficiency is required when (1) English is not the primary language of the applicant and (2) the person is applying for a college degree program. View a list of acceptable tests.

Language Training program applicants are required to take the Levels of English Proficiency (LOEP) test as part of the application process.

Applicants must have a basic level of English proficiency to successfully take the LOEP test.

You will take the Levels of English Proficiency (LOEP) test as part of the application process when:

  1. English is not your primary language and you are in the United States.
  2. English is not your primary language and you are in your home country, but you don't know what is your level of English proficiency.

The test can be taken remotely.

The LOEP test will determine if you have at least a basic level of English proficiency to successfully enroll in our Language Training program: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) classes.

Yes. The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program is for students who already have some basic understanding of English. It is an ideal option for degree-seeking students. The program offers English language courses that are designed to prepare non-native speakers for a degree program at Broward College. The EAP program consists of fifteen courses in three main skill areas: Grammar & Writing, Listening & Speaking, and Reading & Vocabulary.

Learn more about the EAP program.

International student applicants are encouraged to request to take the test remotely in their home countries to verify their proficiency before making the decision to travel to the United States (U.S.). Send an email to ISSO@broward.edu to request the remote testing information.

Once you complete the Language Training program, you are already admitted to study for an Associate's degree with us (the first two years of a Bachelor's degree).

No, you do NOT need to re-apply.

International students are self-funded. We require financial documents with sufficient funds to cover the estimated annual cost of education: 24 credits (tuition), lab fees, books, and living expenses.  

Financial resources information

International F1 visa students must be full time (at least 12 credits) and must take at least 9 credits in on-campus face-to-face classes.

F1 visa international students must have completed a Fall and Spring Term before being eligible for annual vacation during the Summer Term.

SEVP allows I-20s to be digitally signed by the DSO and emailed to students.