International Student Exchange
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most frequently asked questions our office receives from both incoming and potential exchange students. If you do not find the answer to your question after reading through the information below, please feel free to contact the Study Abroad Office at studyabroad@towson.edu.
Admissions and Course Selection
How long does it take to be notified if I have been accepted to Towson University?
Once we have received your complete application, your acceptance packet will be mailed to your home university within three to four weeks.
Do I need to enroll in classes before arriving or is that something the Study Abroad Office will do for me?
The Study Abroad Office will enroll you in classes for your first semester of study at TU before you arrive based on the courses you selected on your application. If you need to make changes to your schedule, you can do so during the first week of classes. You will receive more information on how to switch classes at the International Exchange Student Orientation. We will contact you if we are unable to enroll you in the mandatory 12 credits.
Housing
Will Towson University guarantee on-campus housing if I am accepted?
Unfortunately we cannot guarantee housing. However, if you turn in your housing application and housing deposit form with your application by the due date, we can make sure that the housing office has a place for you.
Do I have to pay the housing deposit before I arrive?
Yes. In order to secure your housing you must pay the $350 deposit with your housing application. The Housing Office will only accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and International Money Orders for your housing deposit. You will receive this deposit at the end of the semester as long as there are no damages to your room.
How much does housing cost? Do I have to live in on-campus housing?
You can find the cost of on-campus housing on the Housing and Residence Life website. All international students are placed in the International House which is located in the Residence Tower. It is not mandatory to live in on-campus housing. However, it ican be difficult to find independent housing as an international student, especially if you are only here for one semester.
Do I need a meal plan?
Yes. If you plan to live on-campus you must have a meal plan. The minimum meal plan is l0 meals a week with $50 in dining points. You can find more information about meals plans, along with the cost, on the Dining Services website.
Is bedding provided in the on-campus housing?
Welcome packages are available for purchase upon check-in at the Residence Tower. Packages cost $25 and include fitted bed sheets, a blanket, a pillow case, a flashlight, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and a toothbrush.
Visas and Arrival Information
I would like to apply for my visa. What do I need to take with me to my appointment with the US consulate?
Please refer to your acceptance packet which will give you detailed instructions on how to apply for your visa.
Who do I contact once I am at Towson if I have questions about my I-20 or visa?
The International Student and Scholar Office is your main contact at Towson if you have questions about immigration procedures and your visa. The Study Abroad Office is available to answer any other questions you may have about issues such as housing, billing and course selection.
Medical Insurance
Do I have to get Towson University medical insurance or can I use the insurance provided by my home university/country?
You MUST have medical insurance if you are studying at Towson University. You will automatically be enrolled in the TU insurance policy unless you provide documentation that your insurance covers all of the necessary requirements set by Towson University. You can find a list of medical insurance requirements if you click here.
Practical Information
Do I need to open a bank account or can I use my credit/debit card from my home country?
It is not necessary for you to open a bank account. If you will be studying at Towson for a year, it may be helpful, especially if you acquire an on-campus job. Please make sure to notify your bank or credit card company that you will be using your card in the US so they do not place a hold on your account. Also make sure that your credit/debit cards have a 4 digit pin code.
Does Towson University offer any chances to get involved with clubs and organizations?
Yes! Towson University is home to several unique clubs and organizations. You can find more information about all of the clubs and organizations offered at TU by clicking here.
Study Abroad Office
Administration Building, 2nd Floor
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Phone: 410-704-2451
Fax: 410-704-4703
Email: studyabroad@towson.edu
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