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INTO SLU Frequently Asked Questions

Congratulations on Your Offer to Take Part in an INTO SLU Pathway Program

Now that you've received your admission to study at Saint Louis University, you're one step closer to becoming a Billiken.

If you’ve received an offer letter to be in an INTO SLU pathway program, it was determined that you have the potential to be a successful student at Saint Louis University with our assistance. INTO SLU undergraduate and graduate pathway programs are designed to help international students become more confident English speakers. They will also support you as you build your academic skills and get to know international and domestic students attending SLU. 

Why did I receive an offer for a pathway and not a degree program?

You may have received an offer for a pathway program due to a number of reasons. If you did not meet the academic and/or English requirements needed to enter Saint Louis University directly, SLU’s admissions team may have determined that you could benefit from the extra support that INTO SLU offers. There is no need to be anxious about where you start; just focus on where you will end up – with a degree from Saint Louis University!  
 
Also, please note that you may have received an email from our INTO SLU team before you receive your official offer letter. Do not worry though, you will receive the offer letter shortly.  

What is INTO?

INTO helps students from around the world achieve their dream of studying overseas at university. We support international students who apply for entry to an undergraduate or graduate degree program, and work with universities to create unique preparation programs designed for those students who don’t yet meet the university’s requirements. So, whether you're eligible to apply for a degree program or require some additional preparation before your degree, we can help!

Our undergraduate and postgraduate pathway programs support students in improving their English and developing their subject-specific academic knowledge. We’ll help to ensure that you comfortably settle into life in a new country and are ready to succeed in your degree. We've helped thousands of INTO students secure their place on some of the best university courses overseas, and go on to find successful careers. 
 
INTO SLU was established in 2015 and has helped hundreds of students succeed since then. In addition to helping students succeed academically, we also prepare international students to adapt to the educational, social and cultural norms of their host country while pursuing a degree. 

What is an International Year One (Pathway)?

Our International Year One pathway allows you to begin earning credits toward your degree even if you don’t meet the academic and English requirements for direct entry. You’ll receive additional support to move you successfully through your first year and graduate in the same amount of time as domestic students. Depending on your English language scores, you’ll enter International Year One through a customized program that lasts one or more semesters. 

What is a Graduate Pathway?

Our Graduate Pathway program will give you the academic foundation and essential language skills to successfully move on to your master’s degree. You’ll receive the highest level of support throughout your program, including personalized academic advising. 

What are the benefits of a pathway program?

Students who are studying in a pathway program have the benefit of working alongside their American peers and earning credit toward their degree while improving their English skills. Pathway students at SLU have access to:

  • Personalized academic, language and cultural support
  • The English Language Center
  • Tutoring and conversation panels
  • Free airport pickup to greet you in St. Louis
  • An orientation program designed to help you adjust to campus life
  • Enhanced student advising
  • A career center to support career planning, preparation and employment
  • University housing support
  • Social trips and activities with other students
  • Wellness programs
  • In 2020-21, 95% of all pathway students were eligible to progress at SLU.

Most importantly, you will still be a SLU Billiken! Being an INTO SLU graduate will not be noted on your diploma, and you will still have the same opportunities as domestic students will studying at the University.

How long does it take to graduate, will the pathway take longer than direct entry?

The pathway program is set up to allow students an opportunity to complete their degree in the same amount of time as a direct-entry student. Some undergraduate and graduate programs do have additional prerequisite course requirements students will need to take and this could add additional time to your specific study plan.

What is the cost?

Costs vary from year to year. For more information, visit our fees and finance page

Can I still provide updated test scores?

If you have not yet submitted or have updated ACT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores, we can still accept them up to four weeks before your program start date. 

Will I still receive a scholarship if I enter a pathway program?

The short answer is yes! All international students are automatically considered for a scholarship, and in most cases, the scholarships will be automatically applied. The only exception is students who are taking Academic English courses only. Academic English students are ineligible for scholarships. If you have questions about the scholarship you were awarded, please do not hesitate to contact us at intoslu@slu.edu.  

If I am a U.S. citizen/resident, do I qualify for financial aid on the pathway?

The INTO SLU program charges a program fee, not tuition. Financial Aid provided through the university or other sources are not able to be applied to this program. You may, however, be eligible for a program scholarship and if so this would have been included with your offer letter.

Who can I speak to if I want to learn more about this offer?

Our recruitment staff is happy to speak to you.

Schedule a Call with INTO SLU’s Director of Marketing and Recruitment

For admission questions, you can reach out to us at  intoadmissions@slu.edu. Please include your student ID number so that an admission counselor will know how to best assist you. 

What information is included in my confirmation letter?

Your confirmation letter outlines important details such as:

  • Your start date and study plan
  • Statement of fees and balance
  • Documents required for confirmation
  • Housing information
How can I accept my offer?

The offer letter you receive will outline exact instructions on how to confirm your place in the program. Make sure to complete the following steps as soon as possible: 

  • Review the offer letter you received.
  • Complete and sign acceptance form and return to  intoadmissions@slu.edu quoting your Application  ID number. This can be found in your  offer letter (example: IN:E1234567Q).
  • Pay your deposit (instructions are in your offer letter).
  • If you are applying for an F-1 student visa, submit your passport, bank statement and Affidavit of Support.
How do I pay for tuition and fees?

You can pay in full through the INTO pay online link. This link can be found towards the end of your offer letter in the Financial Q&A section. Additional fees might apply for credit cards (Visa or Master card) or international money exchange. You can also pay through a bank wire transfer. We don’t accept cash payments. 

How do I activate my university portal?

Students will receive their SLU email and password from ITS. To access the Saint Louis University student portal, click “Login.” Type in your SLU Net Id and SLU Net Password, then click “Sign In.” You may be prompted to enter a multifactor identification PIN that can be texted to you or relayed via phone. Contact the ITS Helpdesk by submitting a ticket online or by calling +1-314-977-4000 for all technology support and service requests.

What do I need to do to prepare for my arrival?

To help you have a smooth transition to SLU, please visit our pre-arrival section for a guide that prepares you for your arrival and orientation.