International Students: How to Apply

Anyone interested in attending Rock Valley College as an international student will need to contact the International Student Services department to pick up an International Student Getting Started Packet. This packet will have all of the forms and information you need to get started  at RVC.

You may contact International Student Services at (815) 921-4251, RVC-ISS@rockvalleycollege.edu, or you may visit in person on the second floor, SC 2301/2302, of the Student Center at Rock Valley College's main campus.

Overview of Steps

Below is an overview of the steps you will need to take to get started and are only listed as a guide. Please contact RVC's International Student Services before attempting to complete any of these steps.

Step 1. Submit a completed Rock Valley College Enrollment Information Form.

Step 2. Submit proof of English language competency by one of the following:

• Minimum score of 71 Internet based or 213 computer-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
• A minimum bandwidth score of 6 on the IELTS.
• A statement of completion of the 9th level at an ESL Language Center.
• Attendance from a United States high school on a J-1or F-1 Student Visa.
   

Step 3. Submit an official bank letter of financial guarantee proving that you have the available funds to attend Rock Valley College.

• This bank letter can be from any (or all) of your financial institutions, stating the amount in the account(s), proving sufficient funds exist to attend Rock Valley College
• This bank letter cannot be dated more than six months from the date you intend to start school.
• An International Student who is planning to attend Rock Valley College without a live-in guest status will have expected expenses of a minimum of $27,000

Live-in Guest Status

• Must reside with a citizen of the United States
• Must live within the Rock Valley College district
• If you are requesting live-in guest status, your expected expenses will be a minimum of $11,403

Step 4: The two-part, live-in guest form is required to be filled out by the host family and the International Student. This form is to be signed by the host family of the International Student and notarized by a Notary Public. 

Step 5: All International Students on an F-1 visa will need to submit an I-134, Affidavit of Support which is signed and submitted. 

Step 6: Submit required original transcripts from a secondary and/or postsecondary educational institution.

Deadlines for Applying

Fall semester: June 15
Spring semester: November 15
Summer semester: April 15

Important Note

All students pursuing a degree requiring a mandatory background check, including but not limited to Nursing and Childhood Education programs at Rock Valley College, need to obtain a social security number. Special restrictions apply. Please see the International Student Coordinator.