Frequently Asked Questions
A liberal arts college places an emphasis on undergraduate study in the arts and sciences. A liberal arts education aims to deliver a broad, well-rounded education in the sciences, social sciences, fine arts, and humanities. The goal is to provide students with experiences that help prepare them to think critically and communicate more comprehensively, and encourages exploration across disciplines.
A student must list their country of citizenship on the Common Application or the Coalition Application during the application process. Applications from U.S. citizens who are living outside the United States will be reviewed by the Dean of International Admissions.
Non-U.S. citizens should apply as international students and list their country or countries of citizenship on the Common Application or Coalition Application. Applications from non-U.S. Citizens will be reviewed by the Dean of International Admissions.
Furman requires proof of English proficiency from all non-native English-speaking international students. International students are required to submit at least one of the required test scores listed on the “How to Apply” page.
If students have attended high school in the United States for four years (since freshman year), they do not need to submit test scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
Furman offers academic scholarships ranging from $15,000 to full tuition per year. Applicants will be automatically considered for academic scholarships once they have submitted a Common Application or Coalition Application. Unfortunately, we do not offer any need-based financial aid or full scholarships to international students.
Furman students come from all over the world with diverse backgrounds. They represent 32 different countries and 46 U.S. states. Furman embraces diversity and equality as implicit values and as explicit practices in all of its endeavors.
Visit the Center for Academic Success for additional information. Furman also provides the following: Infirmary, Counseling Center, Chaplain’s Office and the International Student Engagement Office that supports international students – both academically and emotionally.
Furman University International Student Association (FUISA), Student Diversity Council (SDC) and the Association of Students Interested in Asia (A.S.I.A) are some of the most popular organizations among international students. In addition, there are more than 165 clubs and organizations for you to get involved in on campus.
Transcripts and English proficiency test results are required to be submitted in English. Academic transcripts must be submitted directly from your school, and test results must be sent by official test organizations (ETS, College Board, ACT, etc.).
Review our financial document requirements [PDF] for further information.
TOEFL: 85 (Average 21 in each category)
IELTS: 6.5 (Overall band score)
Cambridge English Exam Advanced (CAE): 180 (Overall score)
Duolingo English Test: 105-110
Furman University is a SAT/ACT test optional institution. If you choose to submit these test scores, they will be super-scored to provide us with the best representation of your standardized test-taking skills. Furman’s school code for SAT is 5222, and the code for ACT is 3858. If you do not want your test scores considered, please indicate that you wish to be reviewed as a test optional candidate on the Common Application (proof of English Proficiency is still required).
Furman University recognizes the academic challenge of these programs. Please instruct the International Baccalaureate Organization or the College Board to send scores directly to the Furman University Office of Admissions. Exam course equivalencies [PDF] can be found on our website.
If you are not able to attend the music audition at Furman, you can request an online audition by submitting your portfolio to the admissions office through your status page.
In order to get your F-1 visa to study in the U.S., you need your I-20 ready. Please view our I-20 checklist for more details.
Furman University is 100% residential, so housing is guaranteed for every student.
Interviews are optional for international students. We recommend scheduling an interview through Initial View or Vericant as a way to demonstrate your English language proficiency and to help personalize your application.
Furman is a 15-minute drive from downtown Greenville, South Carolina, and is an 1.5-hour drive from Charlotte, North Carolina, and approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Atlanta, Georgia. The average temperature during summer is 30 degrees Celsius, and 15 degrees Celsius during winter months.
The Dining Hall is managed by Bon Appetit and is an all-you-care-to-eat option. The Paladen is a food court that offers grab-and-go options including Japanese, crêpes, Chick-fil-A, Moe’s Southwest Grille and Bread & Bowl. You can enjoy a leisurely meal at the Paddock, our on-campus restaurant that offers an American southern-style menu. Two additional spots where you can get coffee and a snack are our Library café and Starbucks.