Application

Are you ready to apply to the Intensive English Program at WAL? We welcome you! Please read through the information below. You can send your completed Intensive English Application online, by mail or by fax. Our fax number and address are listed at right. If you are planning to study full-time, please be sure to apply well in advance so that you have enough time to apply for your student visa.

Payment

Send the application fee ($100) and deposit ($100) with the application form. The balance of tuition and other costs are due at registration. New students may pay the remainder of their tuition fee on their first day of school. You may pay by credit card, postal money order or bank wire transfer. Students who are already in Seattle may pay by travelers' checks and in cash.

How to Apply

Read the information below, then print and complete the Intensive English Application Form (or send it online using a credit card for the application fee and deposit).

Send all of the following to the address listed at right:

1. Intensive English Application Form
2. $100 application fee + $100 deposit
3. Bank Statement or Bank Certificate of Balance
4. Housing Application + Housing Placement Fee (if you would like us to find a Homestay or Hosted Home-Share for you)

Conditional Letter of Acceptance

A conditional letter of acceptance may be issued by some colleges and universities in the United States to students who qualify for admission but lack English proficiency.

Financial Certification

The U.S. government requires that students prove they have sufficient funds to study and live in the U.S. before they are issued the SEVIS Form I-20 that is required to obtain a student visa. You will need to send proof of funds, in English, at the time of application.

Insurance

All international students are required to carry health insurance while they are in the US. International students who do not have proof of insurance from their home country must purchase student health insurance through WAL.

Getting a Visa

WAL issues the Form I-20 that is required to apply for the student visa at the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Allow enough time to apply for your student visa. Do not wait until the last minute!

What do you do first? Visit the website of the nearest US Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Look for information on student visas. Be sure to check for current visa processing times. Download an application form and a list of items you need to complete your application. The visa office requires that you make an interview appointment. 

Links to United States Embassies and Consulates Worldwide

What do you need? You must show that you have enough money to pay for your studies and living costs in the United States. If you have a scholarship or are sponsored, you must show proof. You will be expected to show that you plan to return home after your studies in the US. Be ready to explain your ties to your home country. For example, if you own property, are studying, have a job or have close family in your home country, these ties help show that you plan to return home after your studies in the US. For more information on how to apply for a student visa, see: Student Visas

Required documents include:

1. A completed visa application form
2. Payment for the visa application fee and SEVIS fee
3. Your passport (should be valid for at least 6 months)
4. Photograph(s) of yourself
5. The SEVIS Form I-20 and acceptance letter from WAL
6. Payment of the SEVIS fee - Form I-901
7. Proof that you have money to study and live in the US
8. You must also have a clear plan for your period of study in the US
9. They may ask you to bring other items

Housing

Students who complete and return the Housing Application at least four weeks in advance can be assigned to a host before their arrival.  WAL has several options for enrolled students:

American Homestay Program

Live with an American host, participate in day-to-day life and use English naturally. All hosts are carefully screened. Every effort is made to match students with hosts who share similar interests.

Hosted Home-Share

Enjoy the security of a hosted home, but have the freedom to determine your own schedules regarding meals and visitors. You buy and cook your own food. This type of home is for a more independent student.

Apartments

WAL maintains a listing of apartments within a 30-minute bus ride of the school. For a recommended list or for assistance with lease or rental information, talk to the Student Services Coordinator in the Office of Student Services. (Note: most apartment managers require a six-month or one year rental agreement. For short-term students, there are a few month-to-month rentals available; be prepared to pay a much higher monthly fee for these). Other options include staying at one of the local hotels: Please contact WAL for further information.

Airport pick-up service is also available with advance notice. Contact WAL with airline name, flight number, and arrival date and time at least two weeks in advance of your arrival to confirm arrangements.