About Elon University
Where is Elon?
Elon University is located in Elon, North Carolina, in the southeastern United States. The campus is adjacent to the city of Burlington, which has a population of 50,000, and is close to some of the largest cities in the state of North Carolina. The state capital, Raleigh, is about an hour’s drive to the east of Elon.
As an international student, how do I get to Elon?
Elon is centrally located between both Raleigh Durham International and Piedmont Triad International (Greensboro) airports. Both locations offer daily flights on major airlines. Transportation to and from these airports is provided when students arrive for their first semester at Elon and during all holiday breaks. The Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is located 50 minutes east of campus while the Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) is located 35 minutes west of campus.
How does Elon University compare to other U.S. colleges and universities?
Elon University constantly appears on various national rankings within the United States. Please visit Elon’s Rankings and Recognition page to find out more!
Academics at Elon University
Does Elon University have any accredited programs?
Yes, Elon is one of only seven private universities in the nation with accredited schools of law (ABA), business (AACSB-International), communications (ACEJMC), and education (NCATE) along with a Phi Beta Kappa chapter, which promotes the liberal arts and sciences. Elon’s Engineering program is also accredited by ABET. For more on accreditations, please visit our Accreditation page.
What are the most popular majors at Elon?
Elon University offers more than 70 undergraduate majors within our four undergraduate schools. Students do not have to declare their major until the end of their sophomore year. However, if a student has an idea of what they want to study, they can begin classes for their major during their first year at Elon. Visit our Majors, Minors and Academic Programs page to find out more about all of our majors.
Does Elon offer credit for AP and IB exams?
Yes, Elon offers university credit for both. Typically, students should score a 4 or better on AP exams and a 5 or better on IB higher-level exams to be considered for credit.
Being an International Student at Elon
What does housing look like for international students?
While all first and second year students are required to live on campus, international students typically live on-campus housing for all four years. There are several different options when it comes to housing, from different residential neighborhoods students can live in, to living learning communities they can be a part of.
How are international students supported at Elon?
The Isabella Cannon Global Education Center (GEC) serves the needs of international students on campus. Advisors in the GEC coordinate international student orientation and remain connected to the students during their four years by hosting a variety of events and activities on campus. To learn more, contact Kristen Aquilino, associate director of international student services.
What is there to do around Elon University?
One of the reasons students love staying on campus is the countless fun activities going on! You might be listening to a best-selling author speak, cheering on one of Elon’s Division I sports, or perhaps attending a musical theater performance or concert. With more than 284 different student organizations at Elon, there is always something to do or be a part of right here on campus. Learn more about campus life.
The Application Process and Financial Assistance
Who is an international applicant for Elon University?
Each college or university has its own definition for who an international applicant is. At Elon University, an international applicant is considered any of the following students:
- Any non-U.S. citizen who attends school within the United States or outside the country.
- Any U.S. citizens who attend school outside of the United States
- Any U.S. permanent residents (green card holder)
- Any U.S. citizens who also hold citizenship in at least one other country.
Do I have to take the TOEFL and the SAT for admission?
International students may apply for admission to Elon without submitting SAT or ACT scores, as long as they have spent at least three years of high school outside of the United States. However, to be considered for our merit-based scholarships, you can choose to submit test scores.
If your native language is not English or you are attending a school where English is not the primary language of instruction you must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting the TOEFL or IELTS exam score.
- Minimum TOEFL score requirement: 80 (internet-based test)
- Minimum IELTS score requirement: 6.5
Does Elon require the SAT subject exams?
SAT subject tests are not required for admission.
Are teacher recommendations required as part of the application?
No. Teacher recommendations are not required as part of the undergraduate application. However, if a student would like to submit teacher recommendations as part of their application, he or she is welcome to do so.
Does Elon offer financial aid for international students?
International students are eligible for several merit-based scholarships. Visit our Scholarships page to learn more about scholarship specifications.
What additional costs should I be prepared for as an international student?
As part of the application process, non-U.S. citizens are required to provide documentation of available funds to cover the cost of tuition and fees, room and board, and miscellaneous expenses. Learn more about the cost of attending Elon on the Tuition and Aid page.