Affordable College for International Students
Why International Students Choose Generations College
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Generations College welcomes students from around the world to pursue quality education in a vibrant, diverse and globally connected city. Chicago is home to world-class businesses, law firms and cultural institutions, offering students an exceptional backdrop for both academic and professional growth. As one of the most historic and accredited colleges in the region, Generations provides a welcoming, inclusive environment for students from more than 20 countries.
Generations College is proud of its bilingual faculty, small class sizes and supportive community that help students feel at home while studying abroad in Chicago. Our campus celebrates cultural diversity and our faculty members speak several languages, including Spanish, Polish and English. If you’re pursuing law, business or education, Generations College equips you with practical skills, cultural awareness and confidence to succeed anywhere in the world.
Admissions Requirements for International Students
Generations College offers a smooth and supportive admissions process for students applying from outside the United States. Our admissions team works closely with each applicant to make sure every step from testing to documentation is clear and manageable.
To apply, international students must provide the following:
- Application Form: Complete the Generations College application. The application fee to Generations College is waived.
- English Proficiency (TOEFL): Prospective students from countries where the U.S. Embassy or Consulate requires a TOEFL score should complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and report their scores to Generations College. A minimum TOEFL score of 500 on paper-based tests or 61 on internet-based tests is required. Institution code: 1520. If the prospective student is transferring from an American college or university, the TOEFL test score is waived as long as classes in English are of a “C” grade or higher.
- High School / Secondary Credentials: Provide official credentials in a sealed envelope from your high school / secondary education institution and an English translation by an educational credential service that is a member of NACES (www.naces.org).
- College / University Credentials (if applicable): Provide a copy of your college/university international transcript and a course-by-course evaluation completed by a NACES-approved organization such as ECE or WES.
- Financial Support: Demonstrate the ability to finance your education by completing an Affidavit of Support Form and providing a copy of a bank statement.
- Passport: Submit a clear photocopy of your passport. Passports must be valid for at least six months into the future.
- Photograph: Submit a recent passport-size photograph.
After Generations College receives all required admissions documentation and the student has been accepted for admission, the College will issue a Form I-20. Admissions determines academic admission and collects required documents; the authorized PDSO/DSO completes the SEVIS process and issues the Form I-20 after eligibility and document verification. At the time Form I-20 is issued, the international student is required to submit a non-refundable advance tuition payment of six thousand dollars ($6,000.00).
Provisional Admission Pathways
Generations College understands that international applicants may come from different academic systems. For students who may not fully meet all entry requirements, our provisional admission for international students offers a pathway to full enrollment.
Students who have completed four years of high school (or the foreign equivalent) and can demonstrate sufficient English proficiency are eligible for provisional admission. Once admitted, students are required to maintain full-time enrollment and achieve a 2.5 GPA or higher during their first semester to qualify for full admission.
This pathway allows students to transition smoothly into U.S. academics, adjusting to new cultural and educational environments while receiving personalized support. Generations College’s faculty and advisors guide provisionally admitted students toward success, ensuring they gain confidence both in and out of the classroom.
Important: Provisional admission is an academic admissions status only. Form I-20 is issued only after the student meets all federal SEVP eligibility requirements and the authorized PDSO/DSO has verified required documentation. Provisional admission does not by itself authorize Form I-20 issuance.
What Happens After Application Approval?
Once your application has been reviewed and approved, the process to officially begin your studies at Generations College includes the following steps:
- Offer of Admission: You’ll receive an official acceptance letter confirming your place at Generations College.
- Issuance of the Form I-20: After Generations College receives all required admissions documentation and the student has been accepted for admission, the College will issue a Form I-20. Admissions determines academic admission and collects required documents; the authorized PDSO/DSO completes the SEVIS process and issues the Form I-20 after eligibility and document verification.
- Advance Tuition Payment: At the time Form I-20 is issued, the international student is required to submit to Generations College a non-refundable advance tuition payment of six thousand dollars ($6,000.00).
- Student Visa Application: Use your I-20 form to apply for an F-1 student visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Our staff will guide you through the student visa requirements in the USA to ensure a smooth process.
The Generations admissions team remains available to assist with visa questions, financial documentation and pre-departure guidance.
Degree Programs for International Students
Generations College offers a range of associate degree programs that prepare students for successful global careers. As a Chicago two-year college, we specialize in career-focused education that leads directly to employment or continued study at a four-year university.
Our most popular programs for international students include:
- Business Administration Program
- Business Administration with a Concentration in Artificial Intelligence
- Entrepreneurial Studies Program
- Paralegal Studies Program
- Legal Studies Program
- Criminal Justice Program
- Court Reporting Program
Generations also offers hybrid and online course options, giving students additional flexibility while pursuing their studies.
Support Services for International Students
Generations College provides comprehensive international student support services to ensure academic, social and cultural success. Our close-knit campus community means you’ll receive individual attention and ongoing guidance from staff and faculty.
We offer:
- Orientation programs designed to help you adjust to U.S. college life.
- Academic advising and bilingual faculty support.
- Tutoring and peer mentoring for English and subject-specific assistance.
- Career counseling and internship placement to prepare for post-graduation success.
These services go beyond what most large colleges for international students can provide, allowing you to thrive in a personalized and welcoming environment.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Options
While international students are not eligible for U.S. federal aid, Generations College offers limited scholarships for international students based on academic performance and financial need. These awards can help reduce tuition costs and make studying in the United States more affordable.
Generations is proud to be one of the most affordable 2-year private non-profit colleges in the USA, offering competitive tuition rates and personalized financial planning support. International students must still demonstrate proof of financial resources when applying, but our staff can guide you in identifying scholarship opportunities and understanding payment options.
We encourage applicants to visit our scholarships page or contact the Admissions Office for current listings and application requirements.
Life as an International Student in Chicago
Studying in Chicago offers the perfect blend of academic excellence and cultural adventure. The city is a hub for business, law, technology, and the arts, making it one of the best places in the world for students to learn and grow.
Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and vibrant food scene create an unforgettable experience for anyone studying abroad in Chicago. From visiting the Art Institute of Chicago and exploring Millennium Park to networking at international business conferences, students enjoy both cultural enrichment and professional opportunities.
Chicago is also home to hundreds of multinational corporations, law firms and startups, offering international students’ valuable internship and career-building experiences while studying. The city’s welcoming multicultural environment helps international students quickly find their place and community.
Take the Next Step Toward Studying in Chicago
For over 120 years, Generations College has built a reputation for academic excellence and career preparation. As the oldest accredited 2-year private non-profit college in Illinois, we combine tradition with innovation to help students from around the world achieve their goals.
With small class sizes, experienced faculty and a location in one of the world’s great cities, Generations College is your gateway to success in the United States. Whether you’re pursuing law, business or education, our programs and support services will guide you toward a brighter future. Fill out our online registration form to get started.