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International Students

You are a first-year student if you are entering college or university for the first time after completing secondary school.

You are a transfer student if you have attended college or university before and are still completing your bachelor’s degree.

You are a graduate student if you have completed your bachelor’s degree and want to earn a higher level degree.

You are an admitted Shenandoah student if you have received your official admission letter.

You are an international exchange student if you study at Shenandoah for a semester or year through an exchange agreement and receive credit from your home institution.

You are a currently enrolled SU student.

Why Shenandoah University?

As a small, private university, we offer International students:

  • Small class sizes that provide personalized attention
  • Dedicated support services for international students
  • Safe, small-town location with easy access to Washington, D.C.
  • Strong academic programs across a variety of fields
  • A modern, technologically advanced campus
  • The value of a degree from an accredited U.S. university

Supporting International Students, Scholars, And Their Families

Services include:

  • Advising on U.S. immigration regulations and maintaining legal status.
  • Programming for international student success including orientation.
  • Workshops on work authorization, local resources, and cultural events.
  • Liaising with U.S. government agencies, foreign embassies, organizations.
  • Liaising with sponsors that support international students and scholars.
  • Advocating for international students.
  • Collaborating with programs across campus to provide full experiences for students.

Please note: International Student and Scholar Services cannot provide immigration advising to individuals who are not affiliated with Shenandoah University. We work with current students, prospective students and individuals who are sponsored by Shenandoah University. Other individuals seeking immigration advice should consult with a qualified immigration attorney or the international student advisor at their schools.

Contact Us

Questions about admissions requirements, tuition and fees, and the application process.

Salha Aainous
Assistant Director for International Recruitment

salha.aainous@su.edu | +1 540-535-3564


Questions about visas, exchange student admission, SEVIS transfers, and international student orientation.

Alanna Tierno
Assistant Director of Global Education

iss@su.edu | +1 540-665-5460

You are Welcome at SU!

At Shenandoah, every student belongs. Hear international students and community members share how SU fosters a welcoming, inclusive environment where they’ve found connection, support, and a true sense of home.

Why International Students Love SU

Current students and alumni from Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Uganda provide details about their experiences studying at Shenandoah as part of a virtual presentation to EducationUSA Advisors on July 25, 2024.

Welcome from SU Chinese Students

Shenandoah University Chinese students and faculty, speaking in their native Chinese language share their Shenandoah experiences with potential students and families.