Welcome to Our Global Community!

Welcome to Mongoose University’s Global Community

Mongoose University is home to over 600 international students from 75+ countries. Our International Student Services (ISS) office provides comprehensive support from your first inquiry through graduation and beyond. Located on our beautiful 215-acre campus in Orchard Park, New York, Mongoose University offers a safe, welcoming environment with easy access to the culturally vibrant city of Buffalo.

Admissions Requirements for International Students

In addition to the standard admissions requirements, international applicants must provide:

English Proficiency

Waiver: English proficiency tests are waived for students who completed 4+ years of secondary education in English, earned a bachelor’s degree from an English-medium institution, or scored 600+ on the SAT Evidence-Based Reading section.

Conditional Admission: Students who meet all academic requirements but fall slightly below English proficiency minimums may receive conditional admission with enrollment in Mongoose University’s Intensive English Program (IEP) for one semester before beginning degree coursework.

Additional Required Documents

• Credential Evaluation: Official transcripts must be evaluated by WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators). Course-by-course evaluation required for transfer students.
• Financial Certification: Bank statement or sponsor letter showing ability to cover at least one year of expenses (approximately $52,000 for undergraduates including tuition, fees, housing, meals, insurance, and personal expenses). See Tuition, Fees & Scholarships.
• Passport Copy: Biographical page showing full name, date of birth, and passport number
• Affidavit of Support: If sponsored by a family member or organization

Deadlines

Visa & Immigration

F-1 Student Visa Process

1. Receive your I-20: After you’re admitted and submit your enrollment deposit ($250) and financial documentation, Mongoose University will issue your Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility).
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee: $350 via I-901 form at fmjfee.com. Keep your receipt.
3. Schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Bring your I-20, SEVIS receipt, passport, financial documents, admission letter, and academic transcripts.
4. Enter the U.S.: You may enter up to 30 days before your program start date listed on your I-20.
5. Check in with ISS: Attend mandatory International Student Orientation and complete SEVIS check-in within the first week of classes.

Maintaining F-1 Status

• Full-time enrollment: Minimum 12 credits/semester (undergraduate) or 9 credits/semester (graduate). Dropping below requires prior ISS authorization.
• Employment restrictions: On-campus employment up to 20 hours/week during semester, 40 hours/week during breaks. Off-campus employment requires CPT or OPT authorization.
• Travel: Keep your I-20, passport, and F-1 visa stamp current. Have your I-20 signed by ISS before any international travel.
• Address changes: Report within 10 days to ISS and update in MyMongoose.
• Program extension: If you need more time to complete your degree, request an I-20 extension through ISS at least 30 days before your current I-20 expires.

Employment Authorization

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

CPT allows you to work off-campus in a position directly related to your major as part of your curriculum (internship, co-op, practicum). Requirements:

• Completed at least one academic year in F-1 status (some graduate programs exempt)
• Job must be integral to your degree program (faculty advisor approval required)
• Authorization is employer-specific and date-specific
• Part-time (up to 20 hrs/week during semester) or full-time (during breaks)
• Warning: 12+ months of full-time CPT eliminates OPT eligibility
• Apply through ISS at least 2 weeks before start date

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

OPT allows 12 months of work authorization in your field of study after graduation (or during your program as pre-completion OPT).

• Apply to USCIS 90 days before to 60 days after your program end date
• Processing time: typically 3-5 months (apply early!)
• Receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card)
• Must work in a position directly related to your degree
• May not accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment

STEM OPT Extension

Graduates with STEM-designated degrees (including Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Cybersecurity at Mongoose University) are eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for a total of 36 months of work authorization. Requirements include employment with an E-Verify employer and a formal training plan.

International Student Support Services

Orientation

All new international students attend a mandatory 3-day International Student Orientation held the week before classes begin. The orientation covers:

• Immigration check-in and SEVIS registration
• Campus tour and resource fair
• Academic advising and course registration
• Banking, phone plans, and local transportation setup
• Cultural adjustment workshop
• Social events and peer mentor matching

Ongoing Support

• Immigration Advising: Drop-in hours Monday-Thursday 1-4pm, appointments available via MyMongoose
• English Language Support: Free ESL tutoring, conversation partners, academic writing workshops at the Writing Center
• Cultural Programming: International Food Festival (November), Global Week (March), cultural celebrations throughout the year
• International Student Organization: Student-led group with 200+ members hosting social events, trips, and networking
• Host Family Program: Connect with local families for holidays, cultural exchange, and community integration
• Airport Pickup: Free shuttle service from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) at the start of each semester — register through ISS by August 1 (Fall) or January 1 (Spring)

Health Insurance

All international students must maintain health insurance. Mongoose University offers a comprehensive Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) for $1,850/year covering medical, mental health, prescription, dental, and vision. Students with comparable existing coverage may apply for a waiver by submitting proof before the start of each semester. Visit the Campus Health Center for covered services.

Estimated Annual Costs for International Students

International students are eligible for merit scholarships (including the Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship at $5,000/year) but are not eligible for federal financial aid. Some departmental assistantships are available for graduate students.

Life in Orchard Park & Buffalo, NY

Mongoose University is located in Orchard Park, a safe suburban community 15 miles south of Buffalo, New York’s second-largest city. The region offers:

• Affordable cost of living compared to other Northeast U.S. cities
• Cultural attractions: Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Shea’s Performing Arts Center, museums, and vibrant restaurant scene
• Outdoor recreation: Niagara Falls (25 minutes), skiing, hiking, Lake Erie waterfront
• Public transit: NFTA Metro bus and rail; campus shuttle connects to downtown Buffalo
• International community: Diverse neighborhoods with international grocery stores, restaurants, and cultural centers
• Proximity to Canada: Toronto is a 2-hour drive (valid passport and visa required for border crossing)

Contact International Student Services

International Student Services (ISS)
Mongoose University
Student Center, Suite 305
100 Mongoose Drive, Orchard Park, NY 14127

Email: international@mongooseuniversity.edu
Phone: (555) 478-3235
WhatsApp: +1 (555) 478-3236 (for prospective students outside the U.S.)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm
Drop-in Immigration Advising: Monday-Thursday, 1:00pm-4:00pm

Explore Academic Programs, learn about Campus Life, or check the FAQ. Ready to apply? Visit Admissions.