Prospective Students
International Student Information
The School of Labor and Employment Relations prides itself on the diversity of our student body. The Institute values and seeks out racial, ethnic, and international diversity in its student body. Currently, international students make up thirteen percent of our student body. Our international students have come from around the world, including Thailand, People's Republic of China, Taiwan, South Korea, Canada, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Brazil, Poland, Romania, and Turkey.
The process for applying to the School is nearly the same for international students as it is for domestics. There are a few notable exceptions:
- The application is $75 for international students. Applications will not be processed without the application fee. Payment by credit card with web application.
- A TOEFL is required (LER minimums are 590 written and 243 computer)
- A Declaration of Finances is required
Language Proficiency
The University of Illinois requires that each international applicant submit a current TOEFL score. A TOEFL is invalid if it is two years old or older prior to the first day of enrollment at the University of Illinois. If an international student has studied full time for two years (4 consecutive semesters) at a U.S. institution by the time they would enter the University, or if they have a master's degree from an English speaking Institution, they are not required to have a TOEFL. These are the only exceptions. Visit the TOEFL website at www.toefl.org to find out more information about test centers and dates.
LER requires that a student have at least a 590 written or a 243 computer or 96 IBT score to be considered for admission. However, the University of Illinois has minimum standards for full admission. You must have a 610 written, 256 computer or 102 IBT score to be admitted on full status. If your score is between 590-610 written, 243-256 computer, or 96-102 IBT, you may be admitted on limited status. This means that you must take the English Placement Test (EPT) upon your arrival on campus. This test will determine if you need to take any English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at the University. Visit the International Student and Scholar Services website at www.ips.uiuc.edu/isss for more information about student check-in, orientation, temporary housing, and social security, or contact them at isss@uiuc.edu with any questions you might have.
Declaration of Finances
Each international applicant is required to provide Admission and Records with a Declaration of Finances. This form is used in compliance with INS laws. You must show that you have enough financial resources to support yourself during the proposed time of study at the University of Illinois. All visa forms (F-1 and/or J-1) come from Admissions and Records and will not be sent until the Declaration of Finances has been approved. Visit the Admissions and Records website at www.oar.uiuc.edu for more information or contact them through email at international@admission.uiuc.edu. Estimated expenses for the academic year 2009-10 is $42,008.
Placement
International applicants to the LER program should note that employment opportunities for both full time and internship opportunities in the United States are restricted by strict immigration laws. As a result, an increasing number of U.S. companies are unable to hire candidates other than U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Some international students are ultimately successful in obtaining internships and full-time employment with U.S. companies, but many are not. Those entering in the spring of an F-1 visa will not be eligible for the practicum. Please contact the Office of International Student and Scholar Services with any questions about your visa and work eligibility.
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