International Students—
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About The University

Founded in 1865, Washburn University is a comprehensive public university with a strong tradition of academic excellence. It is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the top 20 public schools at the master's level. Washburn's prominent alumni include a Nobel Prize winner, several members of the United States Congress, governors, numerous judges and world-class business leaders. The University is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges and is an active member of both the Institute of International Education and the NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Washburn's academic structure is comprised of the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Nursing, the School of Applied Studies and the School of Law. It offers more than 90 degree programs to more than 7,000 students including approximately 170 from over 40 different countries.

About Topeka, the Capital of Kansas

Washburn University is located in Topeka, the state capital of Kansas, near the geographic center of the United States. The city of Topeka has a metropolitan statistical area (MSA) population of about 225,000. Topeka is home to such major corporations as Payless Shoe Source, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc., and Westar Energy, which provide students with valuable opportunities for practical training and internships.

Topekans enjoy four distinct seasons. Therefore, clothing for warm, hot, cool and cold weather is needed. Average daily temperatures are January 26F (-4C), April 55F (14C), July 85F (27C), and October 57F (15). Average annual rainfall and snowfall are 35 inches and 21 inches respectively.

Student Services

The Office of International Programs assists international students in their social and academic growth, as well as advising them on Immigration rules and regulations.

The Center for Undergraduate Studies and Programs (C.U.S.P.) offers support to students in the following areas:

• Counseling and Testing Center - assists students in personal growth and development, in confronting and solving problems and formulating educational and career directions and plans;
• Academic Advising Center - assists students in choosing proper courses and majors; and
• Career Services - assists students with preparing effective resumes and locating job opportunities

Petro Allied Health Center & the Student Recreation and Wellness Center (SRWC) are university complexes which provide numerous sports and recreation opportunities. The modern facilities include an indoor swimming pool, rock climbing wall, weight room and other exercise equipment, as well as volleyball, basketball and badminton courts. Students are admitted to university athletic events free of charge with a Washburn Identification Card (i-card).

Student Health Center provides basic health care for a minimum fee to Washburn students. If a student needs further medical attention, referrals are made with local doctors.

Intensive English Program / ESL & TOEFL

All students whose native language is not English are encouraged to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and have the score reported directly to Washburn University. Washburn's institution code is 6928.

The Intensive English Program (IEP) is a series of English as a Second Language classes designed to help international students and other non-native speakers to improve their English for successful college learning or better performance in society or on the job. Students with low or without TOEFL scores can be admitted into the program. Students who successfully complete the IEP can be admitted into most University programs without having to take the TOEFL. Courses are offered in the following areas: Grammar & Structure, Reading Comprehension, Speaking & Understanding, and Academic Writing. Washburn's IEP is very unique in having two free one-on-one tutorial services to supplement the program: the Writing Center and English for the Foreign-Born tutoring. Students go for individual help to improve their writing and speaking skills free of charge.

All new arriving international students without TOEFL scores will be tested by the IEP to determine and verify English proficiency. If not proficient, enrollment in IEP courses is required until proficiency is achieved.

All students whose native language is not English must also meet the Washburn English Proficiency Requirement. See the second page of the "Washburn University International Application for Admission" form for more information.