International students

International Student Orientation

As an international student, you’ll start your MBA journey with an International Student Orientation provided by the MBA Program Office and GCS, focused on the unique opportunities and challenges of relocating to the US.

Submit information to OIS

To ensure your visa documents are issued promptly and to prevent registration delays, you must complete the required steps with the Office of International Services (OIS) as soon as possible.

• Complete the Atlas checklist: Immediately access and complete all tasks on your Atlas checklist. This is required for OIS to issue your necessary visa documents (I-20 or DS-2019). All items must be completed by May 1 to avoid delays.
• Monitor your email: Respond promptly to any questions or requests for information from OIS. Delays on your part directly affect the processing of your visa documents.
• Submit required academic documents: You must submit all requested transcripts, diplomas, and other academic records from universities you've attended.
• Avoid registration holds: If OIS does not receive your required documentation on time, they will place a hold on your student account that will prevent you from registering for future classes (e.g., spring semester).

Important note: It can take as many as four to six weeks after you provide your evidence of financial support before OIS is able to issue the documents required for your visa. This should be completed by May 1, but we strongly encourage you to submit your documents as soon as possible to avoid any delays and to have the most opportunities for scheduling your visa interview. Your visa interview should be completed before July 1. Do not wait until the last minute!

Intensive English Program

The Intensive English Program (IEP) at Indiana University Bloomington offers a comprehensive set of courses aimed mainly at preparing international students to study in English at the university level. 

These preparatory courses are designed exclusively for international non native speakers of English admitted into the MBA program in the Kelley School. 

In the courses, students will:

• Learn to understand and effectively use business terms 
• Become more familiar with MBA and US classroom culture 
• Learn how to frame and ask questions in MBA classes 
• Improve socializing and networking skills 
• Practice academic discussions and group work strategies 
• Design effective academic and business presentations 

For more information, tuition costs, dates, and application, see the IEP website: Intensive English Program | Department of Second Language Studies | Indiana University Bloomington

International Student Guide

For a smooth transition to living and learning in the United States, Bloomington, and the Kelley School of Business MBA Program, we have written this guide to provide some advice and tips. We hope this will help you learn from our experiences and make the transition easier for you.

This guide provides information on:  

• What you need to prepare at home before you come to the United States  
• What you need to know for your daily life and convenience while living in Bloomington  
• How to succeed in the MBA program 

International Student Guide