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Admissions Process

Firestorm from Across the Globe

International

We are thrilled you are considering being a part of the Firestorm family. With our rigorous biblically-integrated academics, you'll have a strong foundation to achieve your career goals while living out your Christian faith. ACU is committed not only to your educational advancement but to your spiritual development as well.

A World-Class Education with a Kingdom Perspective

At ACU, international diversity enriches our entire community. You'll bring unique perspectives to classroom discussions, share your culture through campus events, and earn a degree that opens doors worldwide.

30+

Countries Represented

6

Continents

16:1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

100%

Eligible for Scholarships*

Admissions Requirements

Note: These requirements are for international college students

Christian Faith

This will be articulated in the personal essay of the application. You will describe your relationship with Christ and discuss your spiritual growth.

Minimum 2.5 High School GPA

Unweighted high school GPA on a 4.0 scale, or international equivalent.

English Proficiency

Required for any student whose country's primary language is not English. See English Proficiency section below for accepted options.

English Proficiency Requirements

Any student for which English is not the original language of his or her country will be required to demonstrate proficiency. This may be accomplished by any of the following means:

TOEFL

Minimum score of 81 (paper-based) or 73 (internet-based)

Duolingo

Comparable passing score accepted

IELTS

Comparable passing score accepted

Berlitz

Comparable passing score accepted

Transfer Credits

Transfer of college credits from an English-speaking institution showing a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher

High School Transcript

High school transcript indicating that instruction was primarily in English

How to Apply

1

Complete Your Application

Complete and submit your official online application for admission, which includes the required personal faith essay.

Apply Now
2

Demonstrate English Proficiency

Submit your TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Berlitz scores — or provide transcripts from an English-speaking institution.

3

Submit Academic Records

Provide evaluated transcripts from all previous education. Once you submit your application, your Admissions Counselor will help you with the official request process. Accepted evaluation agencies: WES, InCRED, FCSA, or AZICE.

4

Secure Your Funding

Complete the International Student Certification of Finances showing your ability to cover tuition and fees, room and board, living expenses, and health insurance.

5

Receive Your I-20

Once admitted and finances verified, we'll issue your I-20 document for your F-1 visa application. Plan 3–6 months from application to arrival, including visa processing.

Thriving as an International Student

Academic Support

Writing center assistance for papers
Tutoring in all subjects
Study groups with patient peers

Cultural Integration

International student orientation
Intensional Community
Celebration of your home culture through GO Week

Spiritual Growth

Chapel services welcoming all backgrounds
Student Bible Study Groups
Local Churches representing many traditions

Why International Students Choose ACU

Safe, Sunny Location

Phoenix offers year-round sunshine
Low crime rates near campus
Easy access to shopping and services
Major international airport with global connections

Career Preparation

OPT opportunities after graduation
Internships with Phoenix companies
Resume and interview coaching
Alumni network spanning the globe

Affordable Excellence

Competitive tuition rates
Campus employment opportunities
All students eligible for academic scholarships
Lower living costs than coastal cities

Financial Information for F-1 Students

Reach out to your Recruiter/Admissions Counselor for clarification on financial aid and your cost of attendance.

Estimated Annual Costs (2026–2027)

Tuition $32,898
Room, Board & Fees $15,486
Books & Supplies $1,500
Total ~$50,000

Scholarships & Aid

Academic Scholarships

Based on GPA

Church Partnership Grants

Available through ACU church partners

No Separate International Fees

Same tuition rate as domestic students

Campus Employment

On-campus work up to 20 hrs/week in dining, library, offices

Explore Tuition & Aid

Your Global ACU Family

Students from six continents call ACU home. Our international community brings diverse perspectives that enrich every classroom conversation and campus experience.

Brazil Canada Mexico China Japan South Korea Nigeria Kenya Ghana Germany Ukraine United Kingdom

During GO Week, our campus transforms into a celebration of cultures with international worship, global cuisine, and stories from around the world.

"

Coming to ACU from across the world was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The community here became my family away from home, and the Biblical Worldview approach gave me a deeper understanding of my field.

Ahanita

Freshman, Music - Zambia

Important Reminders

Application Deadlines

Apply early for visa processing time

Health Insurance

Required for all international students

Summer Housing

Available for students who remain on campus

SEVIS Compliance

Our DSO team ensures you maintain your immigration status

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the application?
ACU uses an online application to evaluate admission. Visit apply.arizonachristian.edu to get started.
How do I provide my official transcripts from another college or university?
Once you submit your application, your Admissions Counselor will help you with the official request process.
What if I am transferring from another college or university in the United States?
You will need to complete the SEVIS Transfer Eligibility Form. Your Admissions Counselor can walk you through this process.
How long does the process take?
Plan 3–6 months from application to arrival, including visa processing time.
Can I work in the US after graduation?
Yes! F-1 students qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT) in your field of study.
What is the cost of tuition?
Reach out to your Recruiter/Admissions Counselor for clarification on financial aid and your cost of attendance. See the Financial Information section on this page for estimated annual costs.
Will I find food from home?
Phoenix's diversity means international groceries and restaurants abound throughout the metro area.
Is it hard being far from family?
Our tight-knit community becomes your family away from home, we make sure you feel supported from day one.

Begin Your Global Adventure

From your first email to your graduation day, our international admissions team guides you through every step. We understand the courage it takes to study abroad — and we're honored you're considering ACU.