FAQ

General

• Can GSI students use university facilities?
  Yes, GSI students have the opportunity to use the gym and other university facilities. The University Facilities page includes further information.

Enrollment

• Is financial aid available?
  Students admitted to the Global Academic Program will receive a full housing scholarship.  Visit the Tuition & Fees page for terms and conditions.

English Proficiency Requirement 

• What if my university's language of instruction is English?
  Students who are attending schools where English is the language of instruction do not need to take a placement exam.
• What if I have taken an English language exam that isn't on the list?
  English language test scores are not required for the Global Certificate Program or the Intensive English Program.  Students wishing to participate in the Global Academic Program who have not taken the iBT, IELTS, PTE, or CET should contact GSI.

Visa

• Can I arrive in the U.S. before my session starts?

  Yes!  GSI students can arrive in the U.S. prior to their session, but will not have access to on-campus housing until the specified dates. 

  Global Academic Program and Intensive English Program students can arrive in the U.S. no more than 30 days prior to the start date on their I-20. 

• Can I stay after my session has ended?

  Yes!  GSI students must check out of on-campus housing on the specified dates, but can remain in the U.S. as permitted by their immigration status.  

  Global Academic Program and Intensive English Program students will have a 60-day grace period at the end of their program to remain in the U.S. 

• Can I travel outside of the U.S. over the weekend during my session?

  Yes! 

  Global Academic Program and Intensive English Program students must obtain a travel signature from Visa and Immigration Services before traveling outside the U.S.

• Do I need a new F-1 visa to continue my studies in the Fall semester?

  No!  As a student in F-1 status, you are admitted to the US for "D/S" (duration of status).  This allows you to stay until the program end date listed on your Form I-20 as long as you maintain your status.  Our Visa and Immigration Services office can answer any questions about your F-1 student status.

• My program is fully online. Can I get a student visa?

  Online-only students are not eligible to apply for an F-1 student visa for summer study. 
  

  If you plan to come in-person to Stony Brook University for the fall semester, you will work with Visa and Immigration Services to request a Form I-20 that coincides with your in-person study.  Please contact Visa and Immigration Services for specific questions related to your status.

Housing

• Can I live off-campus?
  No, the Global Summer Institute is a residential program and students are required to live on-campus unless otherwise authorized by GSI staff.

Travel

• Do I need to purchase travel insurance?
  All GSI students are required to purchase International Student Health Insurance through Stony Brook University for the duration of their program.  Additional travel insurance is not required by Stony Brook University.

solar

• Why do I have a hold on my Solar account?
  Your Solar account may have a hold preventing class registration. Your Solar account will notify you of the reason for the hold (contact for missing person, financial responsibility, etc.), and give instructions on how to clear it. You must clear all holds.
• Do I have to submit my Immunization History?
  Yes.  All GSI students must submit proof of required immunizations.  You will see a hold on your Solar account preventing enrollment until you submit the required documents.

Academic

• Will the courses I take transfer to my home university?
  GSI students must contact their home university to determine if courses taken at GSI will transfer.
• How and when can I receive my transcript?
  Unofficial transcripts are available to print through your Solar account.  Official transcripts can be ordered through the Office of the Registrar.

If your question is not covered above, you are welcome to email us at GSI@stonybrook.edu.