International Admissions
Study at a Christ-Centered University in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Cornerstone University welcomes international students into a Christ-centered learning community where Biblically-grounded faith and academics are integrated throughout the educational experience. Students applying from outside the United States receive guidance throughout the admissions process, including application requirements, English proficiency standards, financial documentation and visa preparation.
Why International Students Choose Cornerstone University
Students from around the world choose Cornerstone University for its Christ-centered education, welcoming community and location in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
- Christ-Centered Education
Faith and learning are integrated throughout the educational experience. - Academic Opportunities
Choose from 65 undergraduate, graduate and seminary programs across a variety of fields. - Supportive Community
Become part of a welcoming campus community that encourages spiritual growth, involvement and connection. - Grand Rapids, Michigan
Study in a vibrant Midwest city with cultural attractions, recreation and opportunities to explore the local community.
Which International Student Pathway Fits You?
Cornerstone University offers options for international students studying on campus on an F-1 visa, online from their home country, or online while residing in the United States on a different visa.
Studying in the United States on an F-1 Visa
International students seeking a traditional on-campus experience at Cornerstone University must complete the admissions and F-1 visa process.
New F-1 students must be enrolled in a full-time, on-campus program and can only apply for fall semester starts. See deadlines below.
Studying Online from Your Home Country
Students living outside the United States may be eligible to enroll in fully online programs while remaining in their home country. The following programs require on-campus residencies and are not available for international students:
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
- Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership & Development.
Residing in the United States on a Non-Student Visa
Students already living in the United States under another immigration status may be eligible to enroll in on-campus or online programs. Some immigration statuses do not allow for higher education enrollment, working on campus, or internship opportunities — limitations could impact degree completion requirements.
Contact immigration@cornerstone.edu for details.
How to Apply as an International Student
Applying early is strongly encouraged, particularly for students planning to study on campus, as transcript evaluation, financial verification, and immigration processing can take several months.
- Apply Online – Submit the Cornerstone University application or Common Application.
- Submit Required Documents – Submit your academic records, English proficiency documentation (if required) and any additional admissions materials.
- Receive Your Admission Decision – Once all required materials have been received, Cornerstone will review your application and supporting documents. Admission decisions are typically communicated by email within four to six weeks. See requirements below (anchor)
- Complete Financial Verification – Accepted students enrolling in on-campus programs must submit the required financial documentation.
- Pay Your Enrollment Deposit – After acceptance, submit your enrollment deposit to secure your place at Cornerstone University.
On-Campus Programs: $200 USD deposit
Online Programs: $50 USD deposit - Complete Immigration Requirements – Students planning to study on campus under an F-1 visa will work with Cornerstone to complete immigration requirements and prepare for arrival in the United States.
Important Dates & Deadlines
|
Admission Item to Complete
|
Without an F-1 Visa
|
With an F-1 Visa or Canadian Citizenship
|
|---|---|---|
|
Application
|
April 1
|
June 1
|
|
Submit Transcript(s) for Evaluation
|
April 15
|
July 1
|
|
Submit English Proficiency Test Scores
|
April 15
|
July 1
|
|
Application Acceptance
|
May 1
|
July 1
|
|
Complete the Declaration of Finances Form
|
May 1
|
July 1
|
|
Pay Enrollment Deposit
|
May 1
|
July 1
|
|
Obtain F-1 Student Visa
|
August 1
|
N/A
|
|
Pay Health Insurance Fee
|
August 1
|
August 1
|
Ready to Study at Cornerstone University?
Our admissions team can help you understand requirements, deadlines and next steps for studying in the United States or online from your home country. Email immigration@cornerstone.edu for more information.




