International Admissions at Lewis & Clark
A New World Awaits
At Lewis & Clark, everyone in the International Students and Scholars office will know you by name, even before you arrive on campus. Students from all over the world choose Lewis & Clark for our rigorous and personalized liberal arts curriculum, access to innovative research and internships, green and sustainable campus in the gorgeous Pacific Northwest, and strong network of global citizens and lifelong friends. From specialized advising to immigration services, you’ll be supported every step of the way. Join us!
Admission Requirements for International Students
Lewis & Clark accepts the Common Application, and there is no application fee. We are a leader in test-free admissions and have not required standardized test scores since 1991. As part of your application, you will need to submit:
- A secondary school report
- A personal essay
- A teacher recommendation
- A certificate of financial responsibility
- Proof of English proficiency (if English is not your first language)
Optional Submissions
- Academic and nonacademic work
- Interview
- SAT or ACT scores
Lewis & Clark Admission Deadlines
| Application | Deadline to Apply | Notice of Decision |
| Early Decision (binding) | Deadline: November 1 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time | Late November |
| Early Action (nonbinding) | Deadline: November 1 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time | Mid-December |
| Regular Decision (nonbinding) | Deadline: January 15 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time | Mid-March |
| Transfer | Deadline: Rolling (recommended all credentials submitted by April 1) |
Rolling |
Mithila Tambe BA ’25More about MithilaThe International Students and Scholars Office is my secret hideout and safe space on campus. The office and everyone who makes it run so smoothly is super accessible and welcoming. They make it a point to check up on us very frequently.
Ruth Makonnen BA ’22More about RuthI came to Lewis & Clark for its ideals, how welcoming and supportive it is to international students, and its location.
Brenna Ketchum BA ’23More about BrennaMost groups and spaces where I find community on campus are of an international nature. The international student and Third Culture Kid networks are foundational to my identity, and I am so grateful for the friendships and connections I have made.
Academic Exploration
Lewis & Clark’s rigorous liberal arts curriculum allows you to choose from 29 majors and 33 minors across a variety of academic disciplines, plus preprofessional programs, internship opportunities, collaborative student-faculty research, and much more. You will graduate with a bachelor of arts (BA) degree and the skills you need for success in any career or advanced degree program.
Financial Aid for International Students
The number you see—the total cost of tuition, room, board, travel, and personal expenses—is not usually what you will pay. Last year, Lewis & Clark distributed over $74 million in assistance from institutional, federal, state, and private sources. International students are eligible for need- and merit-based scholarships, and all applicants are automatically considered for aid. Notably, the Davis United World College Scholars program entitles graduates of UWCs to receive a need-based grant of up to $40,000 per year, and the Mary Dimond Scholarship is for a selected group of current international students.
A Culturally Rich Campus
Lewis & Clark’s diverse student body is made up of American students, international students, and students in between (Third Culture Kids). This means everyone learns from exposure to new cultures and beliefs, has their assumptions challenged, and expands their worldview. Our Offices of International Students and Scholars and Inclusion and Multicultural Engagement are just two places where our students can build a solid foundation of support. No matter where your passport was issued, we pride ourselves on creating a community that feels like home.
Immerse Yourself in Lewis & Clark
Living on campus is the best way to stay connected to the heart of our community. Our residence halls contain communal spaces, kitchens, laundry, and more, and the Global Languages and Cultures Living-Learning Community is a hub for students interested in travel, cultural exchange, and exploring study abroad opportunities. There’s no easier way to make connections and find your lifelong friends than by living on campus!
Your Pacific Northwest Home
It’s not all studying and homework at Lewis & Clark, and you’ll enjoy a true American university experience at Lewis & Clark. You can play varsity and club sports, join one (or more!) of our 110+ clubs and organizations, participate in conservatory-caliber arts programs, make connections to Portland and the stunning outdoor environment of the Pacific Northwest, and much more. There’s always something happening on our bustling campus and in our vibrant city.
Next Steps
Once admission is granted, Lewis & Clark will send a letter of acceptance and related admissions information. Once you accept the offer of admission, we will send you an I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) form (or a DS-2019 for J-1 exchange students and scholars). You will then need to:
- consult our visa preparation webpage;
- pay the $350 SEVIS fee;
- make an appointment with the nearest U.S. Consulate;
- take your admissions letter, the I-20 (or DS-2019 for J-1 students), a valid passport, and proof of financial support to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for an F-1 (student) visa (or J-1 visa for exchange students).
Get Support From Admissions Counselors
Joshua Ferchau, associate dean of admissions and director of global recruiting, is here to support you as you navigate the college application process and answer any questions you may have.