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Leavey School of Business offers graduate business programs designed to develop leaders who make a difference across industries and global communities. Located in Silicon Valley, home to the world's highest concentration of tech companies and research centers, our programs are especially well suited for international students seeking to study business in one of the most innovative regions in the world.
With a strong focus on ethical leadership and access to a global alumni network, Leavey offers business programs for international students that provide the tools, connections, and cultural exposure needed to thrive in competitive business environments.
The Leavey Difference
International Student Requirements
Santa Clara University welcomes international students to its graduate business programs through a clear and supportive admissions process designed to recognize global potential and academic excellence.
International students applying to Santa Clara University's graduate business programs must have their academic history evaluated for U.S. equivalency. Applicants who earned their undergraduate or graduate degrees outside the United States are required to submit a course-by-course evaluation from a NACES member organization, including cumulative GPA and U.S. degree equivalency.
Accepted evaluators include:
All international students applying to Leavey business degrees must provide GMAT or GRE scores, unless they qualify for a waiver. These standardized tests help evaluate academic preparedness and ensure applicants can succeed in a rigorous graduate-level environment.
When submitting your scores, be sure to use the following appropriate institutional codes to ensure your results are sent directly to Santa Clara University:
- GMAT School Code: BV3-WB51
- GRE School Code: 4851
Waiver Information
Waivers may be granted to applicants with a strong academic background. However, no waiver is automatic, and approval does not guarantee admission.
Applicants with international (non-U.S.) degrees must still submit NACES-approved evaluations.
Strong English communication allows international students to engage fully in class discussions, group projects, and networking opportunities. Therefore, all international students applying to SCU business degrees must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests:
- TOEFL: A minimum TOEFL score of 90 is required.
- IELTS: A minimum score of 6.5 is required.
- Duolingo: A minimum score of 110 is required.
Waiver Criteria
This requirement may be waived for international students who either (a) score in the 50th percentile or higher on the verbal portion of the GMAT or GRE, or (b) have completed a degree from an accredited institution in an English-speaking country.
Strong English skills help international students thrive in Santa Clara's collaborative business programs.
International students pursuing business degrees at Santa Clara must obtain an F-1 visa prior to arrival in the U.S. Leavey offers support throughout the process, but early action is recommended to avoid delays.
To obtain your F-1 visa:
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee using your SEVIS ID and Santa Clara University school code
- Complete the DS-160 visa application and print your confirmation
- Pay the DS-160 application fee via your country's U.S. Embassy website
- Schedule your visa interview in your country of residence or nationality
- Gather your supporting documents, including passport, I-20, test scores, funding proof, and admission letter
- Prepare for your interview by reviewing common questions about academics, finances, and plans post-graduation
- Attend your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
- Receive your passport with a U.S. visa stamp, typically returned by courier or pickup
If you already hold a valid F-1 visa, you may not need to reapply. Canadian students are visa-exempt but must still secure an I-20 and pay the SEVIS fee.
Santa Clara's International Student Services (ISS) team is available to support students throughout the process. For personalized guidance, contact iss@scu.edu.
"Santa Clara does a fantastic job of blending diverse perspectives and making it easy for international students to feel at home."
Scholarships, Financial Aid, and Housing
International students applying to graduate business programs at Leavey are fully eligible for merit-based scholarships. These awards are considered automatically for all applicants who submit GRE or GMAT scores–no separate application is required. Scholarships vary by program and test performance, with typical awards ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 for MS students and $3,000 to $18,000 for MBA students. Explore all available graduate business scholarships.
While federal financial aid is not available to non-U.S. citizens (unless holding permanent residency and pursuing citizenship), international students may qualify for private loans in addition to scholarships.
On-Campus Housing for Graduate Students
Santa Clara University offers limited on-campus graduate housing designed to support students transitioning into academic life. These units are located near classrooms, dining options, and campus resources, so they are ideal for those without a car or looking to build a strong academic community from day one.
Off-Campus Housing Support
For students seeking off-campus options, the University provides resources and guidance to help navigate housing within 5 miles (8 km) of campus—close to the Silicon Valley job market, internships, and transit routes. Demand is high, so students are encouraged to begin their search 9–14 months in advance.
Cultural Diversity, Support, and Campus Life
Global EngagementSanta Clara University's Global Engagement Office offers support for international students, hosts events, and more.
Multicultural CenterThe Multicultural Center (MCC) is the multicultural programming body and racial/ethnic advocacy voice for the campus community. Cultural registered student organizations fall under the MCC umbrella.
Frequently Asked Questions
Santa Clara University's campus is in the heart of Silicon Valley, a global center of technological innovation located in California. Silicon Valley is home to big-name tech companies and thousands of start-ups alike.
Our campus spans 106 lush acres with world-renowned gardens and state-of-the-art facilities. Santa Clara enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine per year. Year-round, the campus has an average daily temperature of 63-76°F (or 17-26°C).
With a short drive, train, or bus trip, you can visit San Francisco or the beaches of Santa Cruz. If you’re into being active and outdoors—surfing, biking, climbing, skiing, or just about anything else—you can do it all from here. And if you’re more into bookstores and coffee shops, the Bay Area has the best of both.
International students can begin the process of applying for an F-1 visa once admitted to Santa Clara University, confirmed an intention to enroll, and submitted the enrollment deposit. Students on an F-1 visa are required to be enrolled in at least eight (8) units per quarter.
Find information regarding visas from the Office of Global Engagement.
NOTE: The Executive MBA and all Online programs are not eligible for students studying on an F-1 visa.
On campus, part-time jobs are available but not guaranteed. Learn more about On-Campus Employment for international students.
Yes, our MSBA, MSFA, and MSIS Programs and STEM MBA are STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) designated.
Graduating students may receive the STEM OPT extension, depending on their situation and if they have used OPT time prior to joining our program. Learn more about the STEM OPT Extension.
A Master of Business Administration (MBA) focuses on teaching leadership skills and a breadth of business knowledge. The STEM MBA at the Leavey School of Business requires 3+ years of work experience and typically takes 2 years to complete.
A Master of Science (MS) concentrates on a specific discipline. Each MS program at the Leavey School of Business differs in curriculum and length of program, but none requires work experience.
Contact Us
| Program | Phone | |
|---|---|---|
| MBA Admissions | +1 408-554-4539 | gradbusiness@scu.edu |
| MS Admissions | +1 408-554-4539 | msadmissions@scu.edu |
| Undergraduate Admissions | +1 408-554-4700 | admission@scu.edu |
Our International Partners
MS Business Analytics
Big data. Big opportunities. Through an expertly designed curriculum that blends business acumen with data analysis, we prepare you for careers in one of the fastest-growing, most in-demand fields in tech. The on-campus MSBA is a STEM-Designated degree.
MS Finance and Analytics
There’s power in numbers. Our innovative curriculum, flexible program duration, and hands-on experiential learning deliver the essential knowledge, skills, and analytical tools to advance your finance career. The on-campus MSFA is a STEM-Designated degree.
MS Information Systems
Stand out in Silicon Valley. Renowned researchers and experienced Silicon Valley veterans teach you how to apply cutting-edge information technology to solve important business, technology, and societal challenges. Leavey's MSIS is a STEM-Designated degree.
STEM MBA
Through its rigorous course curriculum, network of professionals in leadership roles, and prime location in the heart of Silicon Valley, the program is designed to equip graduates with a blend of strong technical expertise and proven management skills.