International Students

The Office of Admissions also serves as the Office of International Students at Baptist University of the Américas.

There are approximately 50 international students representing over 16 countries enrolled at Baptist University of the Américas.

The Office of International Students is available to assist international students and their families in matters related to their immigration status, employment, social security, ministry opportunities, and other personal concerns.

Undergraduate Application for International Student Admission

English International Application (pdf)

Spanish International Application (pdf)


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Thank you for your interest in attending the Baptist University of the Américas (BUA) in San Antonio, Texas. We have much to offer an international student such as you. San Antonio is an international city which provides many opportunities for a variety of multicultural experiences. Thousands of tourists visit San Antonio every year.

International students are highly valued by Baptist University of the Américas, and the multicultural influence they bring to the student body promotes a holistic educational experience for all members of the university community. International students must submit the following documents to complete the application process:

  • Application for Admission along with a $25.00 non-refundable application fee
  • Two recommendation letters
  • Church recommendation letter
  • Pastor recommendation letter
  • Brief written testimony
  • Housing application and deposit (if applicable)
  • Proof of sufficient financial support (forms are included in application packet)
  • Official copies (in English) of complete academic records, types of subjects, and description of the grading system
  • A copy of a valid passport, Visa and I-94

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): Evidence of proficiency in the English language is required for admission into the award program can be satisfied by submitting results from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 550 on the written exam or an equivalent score on the computerized TOEFL. Students scoring below 550 on the TOEFL may enroll only in English as a Second Language (ESL) and developmental course work. These students are allowed to demonstrate English proficiency by earning a grade of ñBî or better in each of the required two semesters of ESL course work.

Students who do not meet the English entrance requirements but who wish to enroll in the English as a Second Language Program can do so before taking the TOEFL. These students are accepted with the understanding that they will not be able to take college level courses until they take the TOEFL and meet all language requirements.

No student will be admitted to award course work until English proficiency requirements are satisfied.

THEA or ACCUPLACER Tests. The THEA test can be taken upon arrival at any other academic institution in San Antonio or in the U.S., but the student may take the ACCUPLACER test at BUA once he or she arrives. International students must meet either the THEA or ACCUPLACER test requirements.

Note: The form I-20 will not be issued until ALL requirements have been satisfied.

International Student Cost of Attendance

  Fall Spring Total
Tuition $1,500 $1,500 $3,000
Fees $145 $145 $290
Books $200 $200 $400
Room and Board $1,535.72 $1,535.72 $3,071.44
Totals: $3,380.72 $3,380.72 $6,761.44

Students must guarantee $6,761.44 for the fall and spring semesters based on 12 semester credit hours.

International Student Office
8019 S. Panam Expressway
San Antonio, Texas 78224-1397
(210) 924-4338 extension 202
FAX: (210) 924-2701
mranjel@bua.edu

Applications, transcripts, and documents can be dropped at the Admissions/International Student Office at any time. No appointments are necessary. If you wish to set an appointment for an interview with an academic advisor or to take a campus tour, please call the office at (210) 924-4338 extension 202 or email at mranjel@bua.edu.

The Admissions/International Student Office is located in the Administration building room # A105.

Specific Requirements for International Transfer Students

The Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS-formerly INS) requires international students who wish to transfer to another approved school to be updated as such in SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor Information System). A SEVIS TRANSFER FORM is available in the International Student Office and must be submitted along with and part of the application for admission.


PDF of the International Student Application.

You must have Adobe Acrobat installed on your machine to read this document.

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