Frequently Asked Questions for Prospective & Current International Students
This FAQ provides answers to common questions from prospective and current international, immigrant , undocumented, and DACA students. If you do not see your question here, please contact the NECC International Student Office. All inquiries are handled with care and respect for student privacy. This FAQ is for informational purposes only and does not replace advice from an immigration attorney or U.S. government agencies.
Admissions & Student Classification
Who is considered an international student?
International students at NECC are those who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents, do not have refugee or asylee status, and who have been issued a SEVIS Form I-20 by NECC to study in the U.S. on an F-1 student visa. Students who are undocumented, DACA recipients, or in another non-F-1 status are not classified as international students. For information about available resources and the admission process, please visit our Undocumented & DACA Student page
What are the general admission requirements for an international student?
Requirements include an online application, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, proof of financial support, and a copy of your passport.
Do I need to take an English proficiency exam?
Yes, NECC accepts TOEFL, IELTS, & Duolingo, or other approved exams. The proof of language proficiency is waived for English speaking applicants from: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Canada (except Quebec), Cayman Islands, Dominica, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guyana, Ireland (Northern), Ireland (Republic of), Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Mauritius, Montserrat, Namibia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland, Seychelles, Singapore, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uganda, United Kingdom, Wales, Zimbabwe. NOTE: All accepted student are required to take the Assessment prior to registering for class.
Can I apply if I am already in the U.S.?
Yes. Students already in the U.S. may apply, but eligibility depends on your current immigration status and whether a change of status is required.
Can I apply to any and all programs at NECC?
No. International student applicants are not eligible to apply to our non-credit programs, ESL or any of the following credit programs:
Certificate:
- Children’s Behavioral Health Specialist
- Direct Support
- Early Childhood Director
- Medical Billing
- Medical Office Assistant
- Medical Coding
- Music Technology
- Paramedic Technology
- Peer Recovery Specialist
- Practical Nursing
- Sleep Technologist
I-20 & Visa Process
What is an I-20?
The I-20 is a document issued by NECC that allows you to apply for an F-1 student visa and enter the U.S. to study.
When will I receive my I-20?
Once you have submitted all the required international student admission documents and your application is deemed complete, NECC will issue your Form I-20.
Does NECC help with the visa application?
No, NECC cannot schedule or arrange visa appointments. Students are responsible for scheduling visa interviews and communicating with U.S. embassies or consulates as soon as possible to make your appointment and begin the visa application process.
Can I change my status to F-1 from another visa?
It may be possible to change your status to F-1, but eligibility and timelines vary depending on your current visa. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with an experienced immigration attorney and meet with the international advisor to review your options.
Can I bring my family with me?
Dependents (spouse and children) may apply for F-2 visas. They have specific restrictions, including employment limitations.
Tuition, Fees & Financial Support
How much does it cost to attend?
Costs include tuition, fees, health insurance, books, and living expenses.
What is proof of financial support?
Prospective F-1 students must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to live and study in the United States for the duration of their program. U.S. immigration regulations require schools to verify that students can cover the estimated cost of attendance before issuing the Form I-20.
Are scholarships or financial aid available?
International Students are not eligible for federal financial aid. NECC does offer institutional scholarships that international students can apply for even if you are not eligible for state or financial aid. Information about available scholarships and application deadlines can be found on the NECC Scholarships webpage or through the Financial Aid Office.
Enrollment & Academics
How many credits must I take?
F-1 students must enroll full time each term (12 credits).
Can I take online classes?
International students must register for 12 credits. No more than 3 online credits or 1 course per semester may count towards the “full course of study” requirement.
Can I change my major?
Changing majors may be possible but can affect your I-20 and program end date. Always speak with the International Student Office before making changes.
Employment (Work Options)
Can I work on campus?
Yes. F-1 students may work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official vacation periods. However, before beginning any on-campus employment, students must meet with the International Office to ensure they understand the employment regulations and complete any required documentation.
Can I work off campus?
Off-campus work is limited and requires prior authorization (such as CPT or OPT). Unauthorized employment is a serious violation of status.
What are CPT and OPT?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) are work authorizations related to your field of study. Eligibility depends on your program and enrollment history.
Housing & Living in the U.S.
Does the school provide housing?
Yes, NECC does provide housing. Students interested in housing must complete a housing application and submit it by the required deadline. For more information about the housing options, application process, and deadlines, please contact Jessica Eckstrom at jeckstrom@necc.mass.edu.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes. Massachusetts state law requires all international students studying in Massachusetts to have health insurance that meets school and U.S. regulations.
Travel & Maintaining Status
Can I travel outside the U.S. while studying?
Yes, but you should carefully review your individual situation before making travel plans. We strongly recommend that you contact the NECC International Office prior to departure to ensure you have the proper documents and a valid travel signature for re-entry to the U.S.
Do I need to carry my documents when traveling within the U.S?
You do not need to carry all of your original immigration documents. However, you should always carry paper copies of your most recent I-94 record and Form I-20. Keep clear photos or scans of your passport biographical page, U.S. visa, and I-797 Approval Notice (if applicable).
What if my F-1 student visa has expired?
You are permitted to stay in the United States on an expired F-1 visa as long as you maintain your student status. However, if you are traveling outside the U.S., you must have a valid (unexpired) visa to re-enter the U.S. Your visa is like your key to get into the U.S. You do not need your key again, until you must re-enter the U.S.
What does it mean to maintain status?
Maintaining status means following all immigration regulations, including fulltime enrollment (12 credits), keeping your immigration documents valid, and following all employment authorization rules and limits.
Support & Resources
Is there an orientation for international students?
Yes. New international students are required to attend an orientation covering immigration rules, academics, and campus resources.
Who should I contact with questions?
The International Student Office is your primary resource for immigrationrelated questions and support throughout your studies.
What if I have sensitive questions?
You can schedule a private meeting with the International Student Office. All conversations are handled with care and respect for privacy