Admissions: International Student Requirements

The SANS Technology Institute Welcomes International Students

We welcome students from all over the world who want to get the best college education in cybersecurity. All of our undergraduate and graduate programs can be completed online, in person, or by combining online classes with courses that begin with weeklong in-person events held across the United States and around the world.

Earn a U.S.-based Degree from Your Home

Cost, relocation, and obtaining a student visa are challenges international students face when trying to enroll in degree programs at traditional U.S. universities. At the SANS Technology Institute, you have the option of earning a U.S.-based degree or certificate entirely online, so you can prepare to launch or advance your cybersecurity career without ever leaving your home.

Secondary Credentials for International Applicants

Students who completed their undergraduate degree outside of the United States must submit transcripts for course-by-course evaluation to International Education Evaluations (IEE) or World Education Services (WES) before completing their SANS application package.

Transcripts must be received by the Office of Admissions directly from IEE or WES via e-mail to transcripts@sans.edu.

For detailed application instructions and mailing information visit:
Undergraduate Admissions
Graduate Admissions

English Language Proficiency Requirements

Admission to the SANS Technology Institute requires that applicants be fully fluent in professional, academic, and technical written and spoken English. Certain graduate courses require long-form papers - written and graded in English - as well as oral presentations. This level of academic rigor demands effective communication of often subtle and nuanced technical and non-technical topics. To ensure a successful academic experience at the SANS Technology Institute, international applicants are required to demonstrate that they are proficient in the English language by submitting scores from either one of the two following standardized tests - TOEFL or IELTS. Your TOEFL and IELTS scores are considered valid for two years.

Test Type
Internet-based TOEFL - Applicants must attain a minimum score of 25 in each of the sub-categories (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) before applying to the SANS Technology Institute. Scores must be sent to us directly by the testing agency. Minimum Score: 100 Schedule Your TOEFL Test
IELTS - Applicants must attain a minimum score of 7.5 in each of the IELTS sub-categories before applying to the SANS Technology Institute. IELTS scores must be sent to us directly by the testing agency. Students should take the Academic version of the IELTS exam. Minimum Score: 7.5 Schedule Your IELTS Test

Test Type

Internet-based TOEFL - Applicants must attain a minimum score of 25 in each of the sub-categories (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing) before applying to the SANS Technology Institute. Scores must be sent to us directly by the testing agency.

Minimum Score: 100

Schedule Your TOEFL Test

IELTS - Applicants must attain a minimum score of 7.5 in each of the IELTS sub-categories before applying to the SANS Technology Institute. IELTS scores must be sent to us directly by the testing agency. Students should take the Academic version of the IELTS exam.

Minimum Score: 7.5

Schedule Your IELTS Test

Take Your Next Step

Need more information? We’re happy to answer your questions. Join us for an info session, email info@sans.edu or call 301.241.7665.

Ready to apply? We look forward to learning about you and your cybersecurity career goals.

Request Info Apply Now

Additional Information

Exceptions and Additional Documents

SANS Technology Institute reserves the right to make exceptions on an individual basis and to require additional testing of any incoming international student's English language skills. International students who are non-native English speakers but who have completed a full undergraduate or advanced degree program at a university where the language of instruction is English may request an exception to our English Language Proficiency Requirements.

Student Visa Is Not Required

Our programs are non-residential. While we are based in Maryland, our in-person cybersecurity courses begin with weeklong immersive events held across the US and around the world. Our online study options can be completed from anywhere you have access to the Internet. Student visas are not required for our programs and we do not issue I-20s or support F-1 student visas. Email any questions to info@sans.edu.

Scholarships and Funding

The SANS Technology Institute does not offer scholarships for international students. Because our programs are accredited, they are eligible for most corporate tuition programs. We encourage international students to pursue scholarships and grants that may be available in their home countries.

Financial Assistance for Students in Ontario, Canada

The SANS Technology Institute's academic programs are eligible for the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). OSAP is open to Ontario residents of any age who are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons.

Learn more on the OSAP website.

Admissions: International Students