For International Students
Welcoming International Students
International students can complete the STEM-accredited IKNS degree as a full time student on an F-1 Visa.
As a student on an F-1 Visa, please read the University’s student visa application eligibility and requirements. Internship courses for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) are available as an IKNS elective to engage in company internships in the US during your course of study. The IKNS Master of Science degree is STEM-accredited, enabling you to automatically gain practical work experience in the US for up to 3 years following your degree (OPT).
Schedule and duration of study for F1-students
As a full time student, you will complete your degree in 16 months, starting at the end of August with the 1st Residency, and ending in the middle of the next December with the 3rd Residency. In the first fall semester and in the spring semester, you must be enrolled for at least 12 credits per semester (most courses carry 3 credits each, so 12 credits typically equate to 4 courses). Over the summer, you can (but do not have to) enroll in electives and/or engage in an industry internship. You can customize your selection of elective courses to meet the in person course requirements for F-1 students: The IKNS curriculum is structured such that you can meet the full time requirements while still taking advantage of IKNS' built-in flexibility. You schedule will look as follows:
- Fall 1: Two required courses and two electives to meet the 4 course minimum requirement. Optional third elective
- Spring: Two required courses and two electives to meet the 4 course minimum requirement. Optional third elective
- Summer [optional]: Up to two electives (choices include the internship course for CPT)
- Fall 2: Two required courses and any remaining electives for a total of 2-4 courses in fall 2
- Total: 6 required courses and 6 electives
Useful Resources
- Help with finding housing/apartments
- ISSO: Columbia University International Student & Scholars Office
- ISSO useful videos
- Student visa application eligibility and requirements
- US Work Authorization: Information on Optional Practical Training
- Hone your English skills over the summer: Columbia American Language Program (ALP)
- Student Financial Services (Columbia-wide)
- Financial Resources (School of Professional Studies)
- Select external scholarships (specific to IKNS)
- On-campus jobs and internships
- International Student Scholarships (links to external site)
Sign-up to stay informed about IKNS news and events
Information Session For International Students
(recorded on August 17, 2023)
This recorded webinar was designed for international prospective students and prospective students requiring a visa to study in the U.S. Viewers of this webinar can expect to learn about the international student experience, visa requirements, internships with U.S.-based employers and OPT opportunities. In addition to meeting current international students, you will hear from our Career Design Lab and our academic advisors for international students.
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We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
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