The Art Institute is authorized by the Department of Homeland Security, Student and Exchange Visitors Information System (SEUIS) to enroll nonimmigrant students.

All international applicants to The Art Institute of California – San Diego must meet the same admissions standards as all other students (see section under Admissions Requirements).

Additionally, international students must demonstrate competence in the English language by one of the following standards: graduation from a secondary or postsecondary institution whose primary language of instruction was English, a minimum of 500 on the written TOEFL or an equivalent level of English proficiency from an approved English as a Second Language (ESL) program, or proof of successful completion of a minimum of two quarters of postsecondary course work at an accredited institution in which English was the language of instruction.

Additional Requirements for Nonimmigrant Students 
An international student seeking to enroll at The Art Institute in valid student nonimmigrant status must submit each of the following items:

• A completed and signed Application for Admission Form including the 150-word essay;
• A completed and signed Enrollment Agreement;
• Original or official copies of all educational transcripts (high school- and, if applicable, university-level academic records) and diplomas. These educational transcripts and diplomas must be prepared in English or include a complete official English translation;
• Proof of English language proficiency (See International Admissions Policy for acceptable proof);
• A completed and signed Sponsor’s Statement of Financial Support (this form is not required if the students is self-sponsored);
• Official Bank Statements. Bank statements must verify sufficient funds to cover the cost of the educational program as well as living expenses;
• A U.S. $50 non-refundable application fee and a U.S. $100 refundable tuition deposit;
• A photocopy of the student’s passport to provide proof of birth date and citizenship (if the student is outside the United States and has not yet acquired a passport, they will need to submit a copy of their birth certificate);
• For all applicants residing in the United States at the time of the application: a photocopy of the visa page contained within the student’s passport as well as a photocopy of the student’s I/94 arrival departure record (both sides);
• For all applicants residing in the United States at the time of the application in either F, M, or J nonimmigrant classification: written confirmation of nonimmigrant status at previous school attended before transferring to The Art Institute;
• Proof of Health Insurance. Students who do not possess health insurance upon applying to The Art Institute must be prepared to purchase health insurance through an approved Art Institute provider upon commencement of studies.

If an international student is transferring from a college or university in the United States, the International Student Clearance form is also required.

Depending upon the specific nonimmigrant status of the international student, additional evidence of status may be required.

If the applicant is accepted, he/she will be sent additional information on the student visa application process.