International Students

Applicants whose native language is not English are required to take the Internet-based test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT), a test that includes a section on spoken English (see Standardized Examinations in the chapter Admissions for further information).

Any transcripts, letters of reference, or other application material written in a language other than English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

In order to receive visa documentation, international students must submit proof that income from all sources will be sufficient to meet expenses for that year of study. Each student accepting admission to the School must submit an Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) Financial Certification Form for International Students Admitted for Fall 2026. This form is due May 1 with acceptance of the admission offer. It must be completed and signed by the parents (and spouse, if applicable) of an international applicant, and must include all bank and tax information.

All international student applicants for the 2026–2027 academic year at the Yale School of Architecture may choose to complete the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Program.

See Admissions for further admission requirements.

All course work at the school is conducted in English. Enrolled students who have difficulties with the English language, whether written or spoken, will be required to take extra courses in its use before they are promoted within their program. Students requiring such courses are responsible for any added tuition cost(s). Financial aid for such English language courses is not available.

See the chapter Financial Assistance for the Master’s Programs for information regarding financial aid.

Employment Opportunities at Yale

The School of Architecture offers international students employment opportunities in a wide variety of positions within the School. The University also has employment opportunities for international students through its Student Employment Office.

Employment Opportunities Outside of Yale During Enrollment and After Graduation

During full-time enrollment, international M.Arch. students at the school who hold F-1 visa status and who have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year may apply for the Curricular Practical Training (CPT) program, which provides the opportunity to be employed in the United States outside of the university. During an academic year, CPT is limited to part-time (no more than twenty hours per week). During summer breaks, CPT is available only for full-time employment.

International M.Arch. students at the school who hold F-1 visa status may apply for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which provides the opportunity to be employed in the United States after graduation for a period of twelve months plus a twenty-four-month STEM extension, for a total of thirty-six months, provided such employment begins within sixty days of graduation.

International M.E.D. students at the school who hold F-1 visa status and who have been enrolled full-time for at least one full academic year may apply for the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which provides the opportunity to work in the United States outside of Yale for up to twelve months.

For further details on the CPT and OPT programs, visit https://oiss.yale.edu/immigration.

The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) coordinates services and support for more than 8,000 international students, faculty, staff, and their dependents at Yale. OISS assists international students and scholars with issues related to employment, immigration, personal and cultural adjustment, and serves as a source of general information about living at Yale and in New Haven. As Yale University’s representative for immigration concerns, OISS helps students and scholars obtain and maintain legal nonimmigrant status in the United States.

OISS programs, like daily English conversation groups, the Understanding America series, DEIB workshops, bus trips, and social events, provide an opportunity to meet members of Yale’s international community and become acquainted with the many resources of Yale University and New Haven. Spouses and partners of Yale students and scholars will want to get involved with the International Spouses and Partners at Yale (ISPY) community, which organizes a variety of programs and events.

The OISS website provides useful information to students and scholars prior to and upon arrival in New Haven, as well as throughout their stay at Yale. International students, scholars, and their families and partners can connect with OISS and the Yale international community virtually through Yale Connect, Facebook, and Instagram.

OISS is a welcoming venue for students and scholars who want to check their email, grab a cup of coffee, and meet up with a friend or colleague. The International Center is OISS’s home on Yale campus and is located at 421 Temple Street. The International Center provides meeting space for student groups and a venue for events organized by both student groups and university departments. For more information about our hours, directions, and how to reserve space at OISS, please visit https://oiss.yale.edu/about/hours-directions-parking.