Admission Policies

Non-Discrimination

Lewis University does not discriminate against any applicant because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability.

Standards for Admission

Minimum admission requirements for graduate programs at Lewis University include a completed Lewis University graduate application, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from previous college-level academic coursework. An earned baccalaureate degree, with a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA is required for full admission. A maximum of 12 credits (grade of B or higher)may be considered for transfer from previously completed graduate coursework that meets degree requirements as determined by the program administrator.

In addition, each graduate program has its own program-specific standards for admission. Refer to the specific graduate program section for these standards.

Immunization Law

State law requires that all students (graduate and undergraduate) born after January 1, 1957, who entered Lewis on or after July 1, 1989, and are taking more than five hours of coursework on the Romeoville campus, must have proof of immunization on file at Lewis’ Center for Health and Counseling Services.

Proof of immunity for diptheria, measles, rubella, and mumps is required by the State of Illinois. Call the Center for Health and Counseling Services at (815) 836-5455 for more information.

Entering International Students

In addition to meeting graduate admission requirements, international students are required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Those international students who have attended universities abroad and whose instruction was in the English language may demonstrate proficiency through acceptable English grades documented on official transcripts. All others are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Graduate students are required to score 550 (written) or a minimum of 213 (computer-based), or 79 on the Internet-based exam.

The bulletin of information regarding the TOEFL may be obtained by writing to: TOEFL, Educational Testing Service, Princeton, N.J. 08540, U.S.A.; or by e-mailing: www.toefl.com

International applicants must have official transcripts sent to the University. Copies of all secondary and post-secondary transcripts, the General Certificate of Education (GCE), as well as the original documents themselves, results, diplomas, and other certificates not in the English language, must be translated. In addition, students applying for advanced standing must forward catalog course descriptions of all university-level courses under consideration for transfer.

All international students are required to present the appropriate student visa and other documents as well as complete the Certified Affidavit of Support Form confirming coverage of all college, personal and travel expenses for each academic year at Lewis University. Additionally, international students must have proof of health insurance in an amount not less than ten thousand ($10,000) dollars. The insurance carrier must have a U.S.-based office. International students who cannot show proof of health insurance from a U.S.-based company will be required to purchase health insurance that is available through the University.

International students are required to provide proof of immunization (See Immunization Law). International students should contact the Office of Graduate and Adult Admission for appropriate forms and procedures at least three months in advance of the desired semester of attendance.