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INTO SLU Frequently Asked Questions

Congratulations on Your Offer to Take Part in an INTO SLU Program

Now that you've received your admission to study at Saint Louis University, you're one step closer to becoming a Billiken.

INTO SLU programs are designed to help international students become more confident English users. They will also support you as you build your academic skills and get to know international and domestic students attending SLU.

Why did I receive an offer for an INTO SLU program and not a degree program?

If you've received an offer letter to be in an INTO SLU program, you have great potential to be successful at Saint Louis University. INTO SLU offers additional support and services such as tutoring, academic advising, and classes that prepare international students to be successful in the American education system. There is no need to be anxious about where you start; just focus on where you will end up — with a degree from Saint Louis University!  
 
Please note that you may receive an email from our INTO SLU team before you receive your official offer letter. Do not worry though, you will receive the offer letter shortly.  

What is INTO?

INTO helps students from around the world achieve their dream of studying overseas at university. We support international students who apply for entry to an undergraduate or graduate degree program, and work with universities to create unique preparation programs designed for those students who don’t yet meet the university’s requirements. So, whether you're eligible to apply for a degree program or require some additional preparation before your degree, we can help.

Our English language programs support students in improving their English and developing their subject-specific academic knowledge. We’ll help to ensure that you comfortably settle into life in a new country and are ready to succeed in your degree. We've helped thousands of INTO students secure their place on some of the best university courses overseas, and go on to find successful careers. 
 
INTO SLU was established in 2015 and has helped hundreds of students succeed since then. In addition to helping students succeed academically, we also prepare international students to adapt to the educational, social and cultural norms of their host country while pursuing a degree. 

What is International Direct?

International Direct is a supportive curriculum and entry track designed for Saint Louis University's international undergraduate students. The International Direct curriculum features credit-bearing English courses and introductory-level degree courses, all of which contribute to completion of a bachelor's degree at SLU.

Duration of the International Direct curriculum is based on English proficiency:

  • The accelerated International Direct track is a one-semester curriculum.
  • The standard International Direct track is a two-semester curriculum.

Upon successfully completing the International Direct curriculum and meeting progression requirements, students may continue in the next semester of undergraduate study at SLU.

More information is provided at intostudy.com/en/universities/saint-louis-university/programs.

What is a Graduate Pathway?

Our Graduate Pathway program allows you to begin earning credits toward your degree program by providing you with the academic foundation and essential language skills to successfully move on to your master’s degree at Saint Louis University. You’ll receive the highest level of support throughout your program, including personalized academic advising. More information is provided at intostudy.com/en/universities/saint-louis-university/programs

What are the benefits of an INTO SLU program?

Students who are studying in an International Direct or Graduate Pathway program have the benefit of working alongside their American peers and earning credit toward their degree while improving their English skills. Pathway students at SLU have access to:

  • Personalized academic, language and cultural support
  • The English Language Center
  • Tutoring and conversation panels
  • Free airport pickup to greet you in St. Louis
  • An orientation program designed to help you adjust to campus life
  • Enhanced student advising
  • A career center to support career planning, preparation and employment
  • University housing support
  • Social trips and activities with other students
  • Wellness programs

Most importantly, you will still be a SLU Billiken! Being an INTO SLU graduate will not be noted on your diploma, and you will still have the same opportunities as domestic students while studying at the University.

How long does it take to graduate, will an INTO SLU program take longer than direct entry?

The International Direct and Graduate Pathway programs are set up to allow students an opportunity to complete their degree in the same amount of time as a direct-entry student. Some undergraduate and graduate programs do have additional prerequisite course requirements students will need to take and this could add additional time to your specific study plan.

What is the cost?

Costs vary from year to year. For more information, visit our fees and finance page

Can I still provide updated test scores?

If you have not yet submitted or have updated ACT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores, we can still accept them up to four weeks before your program start date. 

Will I still receive a scholarship if I enter an INTO SLU program?

The short answer is yes! All international students are automatically considered for a scholarship, and in most cases, the scholarships will be automatically applied. The only exceptions are government sponsored students and students who are taking Academic English courses only. If you have questions about the scholarship you were awarded, please do not hesitate to contact us at intoslu@slu.edu.  

If I am a U.S. citizen/resident, do I qualify for financial aid?

The INTO SLU program charges a program fee, not tuition. Financial Aid provided through the university or other sources are not able to be applied to this program. You may, however, be eligible for a program scholarship and if so this would have been included with your offer letter.

Who can I speak to if I want to learn more about this offer?

Our recruitment staff is happy to speak to you.

Schedule a Call with INTO SLU’s Assistant Director Recruitment Partnerships

For admission questions, you can reach out to us at  admission@into.slu.edu. Please include your student ID number so that an admission counselor will know how to best assist you. 

What information is included in my confirmation letter?

Your confirmation letter outlines important details such as:

Your confirmation letter outlines important details such as:

  • Your start date and study plan
  • Statement of fees and balance
  • Documents required for confirmation
  • Housing information
  • For students who require a visa: Visa support letter and visa interview tips
  • INTO PASS service to help you with your student visa process
If I want to accept my offer what should I do?
The offer letter you receive will outline exact instructions on how to confirm your place in the program, or visit offerletter.intoglobal.com/confirmation-guide/saint-louis-university. Make sure to complete the following steps as soon as possible:
  1. Review the offer letter you received.

  2. Complete and sign the acceptance forms and return to intoadmissions@slu.edu quoting your Application ID number. This can be found in your offer letter (example: IN:E1234567Q).

  3. Pay your deposit (instructions are in your offer letter).

  4. If you are applying for an F-1 student visa, submit your passport, bank statement and Affidavit of Support.

How do I pay for tuition and fees?

You can pay in full through the INTO pay online link. This link can be found towards the end of your offer letter in the Financial Q&A section. Additional fees might apply for credit cards (Visa or Master card) or international money exchange. You can also pay through a bank wire transfer. We don’t accept cash payments. 

How do I activate my university portal?

Students will receive their SLU email and password from ITS. To access the Saint Louis University student portal, click “Login.” Type in your SLU Net Id and SLU Net Password, then click “Sign In.” You may be prompted to enter a multifactor identification PIN that can be texted to you or relayed via phone. Contact the ITS Helpdesk by submitting a ticket online or by calling +1-314-977-4000 for all technology support and service requests.

What do I need to do to prepare for my arrival?

To help you have a smooth transition to SLU, please visit our pre-arrival webpage for a guide that prepares you for your arrival and orientation.