Pennsylvania State University | Online Degree Programs

HOW WE SUPPORT YOU

Services for International Students

Purpose-built support so distance and time zones never get in the way of your degree.

Optimized Online Learning Access

Our course platform is built to run smoothly across time zones and devices, so coursework, lectures, and assignments stay reachable whether you're logging in from a laptop, tablet, or phone, at any hour that works for you.

Global Engagement Events

Stay connected through regular webinars and virtual meetups that bring students from different countries together to share ideas, ask questions, and build a sense of community beyond the classroom.

International Scholarships

A number of scholarship opportunities are set aside specifically for students studying with us from outside the country. Visit our international scholarships page to see what you may qualify for.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

One Student's Journey

A glimpse into what earning a degree from abroad can look like

Naledi Mokoena

Master's in Public Health, Completed Remotely

Naledi began her graduate studies while living several time zones away, balancing a full-time job with evening coursework long after her city had gone quiet for the night. Recorded lectures and flexible deadlines meant she never had to choose between her career and her classes. Along the way, she found a steady support system through virtual study groups and international student webinars that made the distance feel much smaller. She graduated on schedule, crediting the program's flexibility for making it possible to earn an advanced degree without ever boarding a plane.

Hassan Al-Rashid

Bachelor's in Computer Science, Completed From Abroad

Hassan enrolled while working as a junior developer in his home country, drawn by the chance to earn a U.S.-recognized degree without relocating. The biggest adjustment wasn't the coursework — it was learning to manage a nine-hour time difference with his advisor. A few early morning calls and a lot of asynchronous email later, he found his rhythm. By his final semester, he had already used a capstone project from the program to land a promotion at his company.

Yuki Tanaka

Master's in Business Administration, International Student

Yuki had already built a career in marketing back home but wanted formal business training to move into leadership. She worried that studying entirely online, from a different country, would feel isolating — instead, she found the international student community to be one of the most valuable parts of the program. Weekly virtual meetups connected her with classmates from four different continents, several of whom she still collaborates with professionally today.

Fatima Ibrahim

Bachelor's in Nursing, Studied While Working Abroad

Fatima was already working as a certified nursing assistant overseas when she decided to pursue her bachelor's degree to qualify for more advanced clinical roles. Between hospital shifts, she used the program's mobile-friendly coursework to study during breaks and commutes. The flexibility to submit assignments around an unpredictable shift schedule, she says, was the only reason she was able to finish while still supporting her family financially.

Diego Fernandez

Master's in Criminal Justice, Remote International Learner

Diego wanted to specialize in cybercrime investigation but couldn't find a comparable graduate program in his home country. Studying remotely meant he could stay close to family while still accessing coursework taught by instructors with real law enforcement backgrounds. He says the hardest part wasn't the material — it was staying disciplined without a physical classroom to walk into. A structured weekly study plan, borrowed from an academic advising session, made the difference.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to a few of the questions we hear most often from students studying with us from abroad.

Do I need a visa to study in an online program?

Because our online programs are delivered remotely, most students studying from outside the country do not need a student visa to enroll, since there is no requirement to relocate or attend classes in person. Requirements can vary depending on your home country and any local regulations, so it's worth confirming your individual situation with an admissions advisor before you apply.

Is there support if English isn't my first language?

Yes. We offer language support resources, writing assistance, and academic coaching for students who want extra confidence working in English. Many students find that a short adjustment period, paired with these resources, is all it takes to feel comfortable in their coursework.

How does the program handle different time zones?

Coursework is largely self-paced and asynchronous, with recorded lectures and flexible submission windows, so you can study at whatever hour suits your local schedule. Live sessions, when offered, are typically recorded as well so you never have to choose between attending and sleeping.

How do I apply as an international student?

The application process is the same as for any other student: submit your application, provide transcripts for evaluation, and speak with an admissions advisor about any documentation specific to your country. Our team can walk you through each step and answer questions unique to studying with us from abroad.

International Students