The Visiting International Program (VIP) is designed for international students who want to study at CSU for one or two semesters, but plan to graduate from their home university. Students who attend a CSU partner university may instead contact their home university about a direct exchange program.
The VIP Program at CSU
What are the fees?
Students pay nonresident tuition and fees and are eligible for all student fee services including the CSU Health Network, Recreation Center, Housing, Career Center, and more. For the most up-to-date tuition, living and fee estimates please refer to our estimated expenses guide.
Will class credits transfer?
The VIP program allows you to take classes at CSU that can transfer back to your home University. Not all classes are guaranteed to be open, but there are hundreds of classes to choose from and a wide variety of disciplines. VIP student must confirm with their home university that the credits will transfer appropriately.
Where can you live?
At CSU, you can choose from a full range of living options that speak directly to your interests.
Students accepted into the VIP Program are responsible for arranging their own housing. We strongly advise you to arrange your living accommodations before you arrive in Fort Collins.
What will you study?
Colorado State University offers more than 150 undergraduate programs and over 100 graduate programs across eight colleges. Visiting International Program (VIP) students are designated as “guest” students with a General Studies major and may register for courses across most academic departments, including upper-level undergraduate and select graduate-level coursework, as appropriate.
What determines eligibility?
Eligible students enroll as full-time students. Undergraduate students typically take a minimum of 12 credits per semester, while graduate-level enrollment requirements may vary. Students may also take intensive English courses alongside academic coursework, as appropriate.
Academic Study
- Holds a GPA equal to 2.75 or greater on a 4.0 grading scale (3.0 minimum for graduate level).
- Has completed at least one year of college-level academic work.
- Holds an IELTS score of at least 6.0 or a TOEFL banded score of at least 4 (72 on the 0-120 scale) or completion of the CSU Intensive English Program (IEP) for clear admission.
Course Registration
A full listing of courses can be found on CSU’s Course Catalog. Upon admission, students will be advised about course registration procedures.
What kind of visa will you be issued?
CSU will issue a DS-2019 for the J-1 visa application to students who are accepted to this program. Dependents may apply for a J-2 visa.
What are the deadlines for applying?
Fall Semester: June 1
Spring Semester: November 1
Obtaining a timely visa appointment is necessary, and depends on the availability at the U.S. Consular post near you.
How do you apply to the VIP program?
See our instructions on how to apply.
What should you do if you’ve been admitted as a VIP student?
Here is more information for admitted VIP students.