International Services
A Top University for International Students
Apply to Biola with a few easy steps – get started today.
About Biola
Biola University is ranked as a top university for international students in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, and a top 10 "Best Christian Colleges in America" according to Niche's 2026 rankings. We offer on-campus, online and distance learning programs for students throughout the world — we welcome you to join our thriving international community!
Biblically Centered
Biola offers biblically centered education and all faculty, staff and students are professing Christians. Faith is integrated with learning in all our programs and you will be prepared to “think biblically about everything.”
Academic Reputation
Biola is ranked as a top university for international students in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, and recognized as one of America's top colleges by Forbes.
Faculty Achievement
Biola’s esteemed professors hold doctorates from some of the world’s leading universities, such as Cambridge, MIT and Stanford. A 14-to-1 student-faculty ratio allows students to receive personal attention and mentoring.
Community Life
There are many ways to find community at Biola. From GSE, student clubs and events, there’s always something to do. Whether you are living on campus or commuting, build life-long relationships that last.
Location
Biola is strategically located between Los Angeles and Orange County in Southern California, and minutes away from hundreds of internship, career and ministry opportunities.
Safety
Biola is known for its leadership in campus safety, and is ranked within the top 25 in "Safest College Campuses in California" by Niche (2025).
Majors & Programs
Biola offers more than 250 programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. With many options to choose from, explore the programs you’re interested in and talk to your admissions counselor if you have any questions.
Business
Lead as a competent business leader grounded in faith, and prepare for success in the business world through programs from B.S. in Business Administration to Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Cinema and Media Arts
Biola’s film school is ranked as one of the top film schools by Variety and The Wrap. Explore programs from B.A. in Cinema and Media Arts to B.A. in Game Design and Interactive Media – your story matters here.
Theology
Delve deep into Scripture and develop practical ministry skills to bring God’s truth and love to a world in need. Explore programs from B.A. in Bible, Theology and Ministry to M.A. – Christian Apologetics.
Psychology
Study psychology at a top choice for Christian students wanting to integrate theology and psychology through programs from B.A. in Psychology to Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology.
Science, Technology and Health
Join the next generation of healthcare professionals and discover how faith and science flourish together. Explore programs from B.S. in Computer Science and M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology.
Education
Educators have the ability to make a positive impact in the world. Whether you want to teach in a classroom or conduct research, be equipped through programs from B.A. in Liberal Studies, Elementary Education to M.A. in Teaching.
Arts and Letters
Cultivate your creativity, critical thinking and communication skills to shape culture and lead with purpose. Explore programs like the B.F.A. in Art and B.A. in Communication to the B.A. in English and B.A. in Political Science.
Global Youth Scholars Program
Experience Biola's high quality education — taught by esteemed professors — and earn three transferable university credits with a discount.
Learn More About Global Youth Scholars ProgramVisit Biola — in person or virtually.
Biola is located in the heart of Southern California, the hub of entertainment, cultural and vocational opportunities. Spread out across 95 acres in the city of La Mirada, the campus is sprawling with 40 major buildings, dining locations, recreational facilities and more. Come join us at one of our admissions events — in person or virtually — so that we can meet you and your family!
Option 1
Visit Biola
Explore admissions events, information sessions and 1:1 appointments to get to know Biola better.
Option 2
Self-Guided Tour (Virtual)
Use our virtual tour platform to take a self-guided tour through our beautiful campus.
Contact Us
Undergraduate Prospective Students
Are you interested in applying to Biola as a first-time freshman or transfer student?
Contact undergrad.international@biola.edu.
Graduate Prospective Students
Are you interested in applying to Biola as a graduate student?
Contact grad.international@biola.edu.
Current Students
Do you want to get connected to the global community at Biola?
Contact gse@biola.edu.
Do you have questions about your visa, travel or immigration documents?
Contact studentvisa.services@biola.edu.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application requirements for international students at Biola University?
International undergraduate applicants must submit a free online application, three short-response essays outlining their Christian testimony and spiritual growth, and transcripts from all secondary schools attended. Unofficial transcripts are accepted for initial application processing. Prospective students must also submit proof of English proficiency through standardized test scores, such as SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic IB English A, or Duolingo scores. Review the full list of application benchmarks on the Biola International Admissions page.
Do international students qualify for financial aid or scholarships at Biola University?
Yes, while international students are not eligible for United States government-funded aid through the FAFSA, Biola offers robust institutional aid to help offset education costs. New, incoming international undergraduate students are automatically considered for merit-based academic scholarships ranging from $14,000 to $23,500 per year upon admission. Additionally, admitted F-1 students demonstrating clear financial need can apply for the undergraduate or graduate Biola International Student Aid Grant, which provides an additional $500 to $2,000 annually.
What should international students do immediately after arriving at Biola University?
Upon entering the United States, all incoming F-1 Visa students must complete a mandatory immigration check-in with Biola’s student immigration advisor. Incoming students must finish the mandatory immigration check-in while participating in Global Student Orientation events.Students must bring their passport, visa, Form I-94, and signed Form I-20 to ensure their immigration status is registered before the end of the second week of the semester. To learn more about this requirement, students can email studentvisa.services@biola.edu.
What international student orientation programs does Biola University offer?
Biola’s office of Global Student Engagement (GSE) hosts a specialized Global Student Orientation specifically designed for international scholars, missionary kids, and third-culture students. This mandatory experience occurs alongside general New Student Orientation and offers vital cross-cultural transition resources, local Southern California excursions, and community-building events to help new students adapt spiritually and socially. Learn more about the schedule on the Biola Global Student Engagement website.
Meet the International Services Staff
Dong Chen
Director of International Admissions
Megan Mitts
Assistant Director of International Admissions
Ty Mussack
International Admissions Counselor for Undergraduate Students
Matt DiNaso
International Admissions Counselor for Undergraduate Students
Ceressa Manzo
International Admissions Counselor for Graduate Students
Janna Christian
GSE Program Coordinator
Rachel Kim
Student Immigration Services Specialist