Frequently Asked Questions

Current tuition and fee schedules are published on this page and in the academic catalog. Rates may vary by program, enrollment status, and term. Contact the Admissions Office if you need a program-specific estimate.

Ivy College accepts several payment methods, which may include bank transfer, check, and approved card payments where offered. Some payment methods may include a convenience fee. Review the Financial category FAQs or contact the Bursar for the latest accepted options.

Payment due dates are listed in your enrollment agreement and term calendar. Late payments may result in holds on registration or records. Contact the Bursar if you need help with your payment deadline.

Yes. Students may be responsible for program-specific fees, materials, and other charges listed in the published fee schedule. Review this page for a breakdown of common fees and ask your program advisor about costs unique to your course of study.

For billing statements, payment plans, and tuition account questions, contact the Admissions Office team. Include your student ID and program name so we can assist you quickly.

Alumni can update contact details by submitting the form on this page or emailing the Alumni Office. Please include your full name, graduation year, and program so we can locate your record.

Join our alumni network to receive event invitations, campus news, and career resources. Contact the Alumni Office to learn about mentorship opportunities and regional alumni groups.

Yes. Ivy College alumni may access select career services, including resume review and job board resources. Contact the Alumni Office for eligibility details and appointment scheduling.

Transcript requests for alumni are processed by the Registrar. Submit your request through the contact form on this page or call the main office. Processing times vary by delivery method.

For alumni events, reunions, and giving inquiries, contact the Alumni Office through the email info@ivy.edu . Our team can share upcoming event dates and ways to support current students.

You can reach our main office by phone or email. Our admissions and student services teams typically respond within one business day.

Our main campus office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Eastern Time). Hours may vary on holidays and during term breaks.

Ivy College is located in Vienna, Virginia. Visit our Locations page for campus addresses, parking information, and directions.

Prospective students can schedule a campus tour by sending an email to info@ivy.edu or calling the admissions office directly. Tours are available on weekdays by appointment.

For admissions questions, contact the Admissions Office. International students with visa or immigration questions should contact the Designated School Official (DSO) listed on our Contact page.

Before choosing to pay by credit or debit card, please keep the following in mind:

• A 3% convenience fee will be added to your payment amount.

• The convenience fee is a one-time processing charge and is separate from any interest your credit card company may charge.

• The convenience fee is non-refundable.

• Depending on your credit card's rewards program, the convenience fee may exceed any points, miles, or cash-back benefits you receive.

• E-check payments are a convenient alternative for students with U.S. bank accounts and do not incur a convenience fee.

• Credit and debit card payments are typically processed and confirmed immediately.

If you have questions about payment options, please contact the Admissions Office before making your payment.

No. The 3% convenience fee charged for debit and credit card payments is non-refundable, even if the related tuition payment is canceled, refunded, credited, or disputed.

Please note that the convenience fee is charged by the payment processor and is separate from tuition and other school fees.

Any disputes regarding the convenience fee must be directed to your credit card company or payment provider.

Students can avoid the 3% convenience fee by using any of the following payment methods:

• E-Check

• Personal or business check (mailed or paid in person)

• Wire Transfer

  
  

Please note that the 3% convenience fee applies only to debit and credit card payments

Ivy College accepts the following payment methods:

• Debit Card (a 3% convenience fee applies to card payments)

• Credit Card (a 3% convenience fee applies to card payments)

• E-Check

If you have questions about tuition payments, payment plans, or billing, please contact the Admissions Office for assistance.

If you have been approved for a new immigration status, such as H-1B, Permanent Resident (Green Card), or another nonimmigrant status, you should notify your school's Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as possible.

Please provide a copy of your approval notice so that your SEVIS record can be properly updated or terminated. This helps ensure that your immigration records remain accurate and up to date.

Important:

• Submit a copy of your approval notice to the Admissions Office or DSO.

• Follow any instructions provided by your immigration attorney regarding your new status.

• Do not rely on your F-1 documents after your new status becomes effective.

• If you plan to travel internationally, consult your attorney before making travel arrangements.

Because immigration situations vary, we strongly recommend discussing your case with your immigration attorney to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.

It depends on the educational level of your new program.

Yes, you may be eligible for OPT again if you complete a program at a higher educational level. For example, if you earned a bachelor's degree and used OPT, you may qualify for a new period of OPT after completing a master's degree.

No, you are not eligible for another period of OPT if your new program is at the same or a lower educational level. OPT is generally available only once per educational level.

Examples:

• Bachelor's Degree → Master's Degree → ✅ Eligible for a new OPT period

• Associate Degree → Bachelor's Degree → ✅ Eligible for a new OPT period

• Bachelor's Degree → Second Bachelor's Degree → ❌ Not eligible for a new OPT period

• Master's Degree → Another Master's Degree → ❌ Not eligible for a new OPT period

If you are unsure about your eligibility, please contact your Designated School Official (DSO) or the Admissions Office before enrolling in a new program.

If your OPT is approved and you complete your authorized employment period, you will generally have a 60-day grace period to take one of the following actions:

• Transfer to another SEVP-certified school and begin a new program of study

• Apply for a change of immigration status (if eligible)

• Depart the United States before the grace period ends

If your OPT application is not approved, your options will depend on your individual situation and the timing of the decision.

In some cases, students may be able to continue their studies by enrolling in a new academic program. In other situations, students may need to make alternative immigration arrangements or depart the United States.

Because every case is different, we strongly recommend contacting the Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as possible to discuss your options and maintain compliance with immigration regulations.

F-1 students enrolled in an eligible degree program may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) during their final term of study.

Students can submit their OPT application up to 90 days before their program end date and no later than 60 days after completing their program. Because USCIS processing times can vary and may take several months, we strongly recommend applying as early as possible.

To be eligible for OPT, you must:

• Be in valid F-1 status

• Complete an eligible degree program, such as an associate's or bachelor's degree

• Receive OPT recommendation and authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO)

Please note: Students enrolled only in an ESL program are not eligible for OPT. OPT is available only to students who complete a qualifying academic degree program.

Contact the Admissions Office or your DSO if you have questions about OPT eligibility or the application process.

No. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is only available to F-1 students who complete an eligible degree program, such as an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree.

Because the ESL Program is a non-degree program, students who complete only the ESL Program are not eligible for OPT.

If your goal is to qualify for OPT, you may consider continuing your education by enrolling in one of Ivy College's degree programs after completing ESL. Students who successfully complete an eligible degree program may qualify to apply for OPT, subject to USCIS regulations and requirements.

If you have questions about your academic or immigration options, please contact our Admissions Team for guidance.

No, not if you plan to leave the United States and return without first obtaining an F-1 visa stamp.

A Change of Status approval grants you F-1 status while you are inside the United States, but it does not provide an F-1 visa stamp in your passport.

Important things to know:

• If you leave the United States while your Change of Status application is still pending, your application will generally be considered abandoned.

• Once your Change of Status is approved, you may travel internationally; however, before returning to the United States, you will typically need to obtain an F-1 visa stamp from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.

• To re-enter the United States as an F-1 student, you should have:

  • A valid passport

  • A valid F-1 visa stamp

  • A valid Form I-20 with a valid travel signature

  • Your Change of Status approval notice (Form I-797)

If you do not have an F-1 visa stamp in your passport, you must apply for one at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate before returning to the United States.

We strongly recommend speaking with your Designated School Official (DSO) before making any international travel plans.

The Change of Status (COS) process to F-1 status typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on USCIS processing times. However, processing times may vary based on several factors, including:

• The USCIS service center handling your application

• Your current immigration status

• Whether USCIS requests additional evidence (RFE)

• Overall USCIS processing volume

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We encourage students to apply as early as possible, as processing times can change without notice.

Important: Do not make international travel plans while your Change of Status application is pending. Leaving the United States before a decision is made may result in the abandonment of your COS application.

Students applying for a Change of Status will begin classes after their F-1 status has been approved by USCIS and their student record has been updated accordingly.

Applying to Ivy College is simple. Follow these steps:

1. Complete the online application form.

2. Submit the required documents, including your passport and academic records.

3. Meet with an admissions representative to review your application.

4. Receive your acceptance letter and enrollment information.

5. Complete your registration and begin your academic journey at Ivy College.

Our Admissions Team is available to guide you through every step of the process and answer any questions you may have.

Ready to get started? Contact us at info@ivy.edu or submit your application online.

The length of the ESL Program depends on your starting level. Students who begin at Level 20 (Beginner) typically complete the program in approximately two years if they maintain continuous enrollment and do not take vacation quarters.

After completing the ESL Program, you have several options:

• American Culture Class – Improve your conversational English, learn common expressions and slang, and gain a deeper understanding of American culture.

• TOEFL Preparation – Develop the skills and confidence needed to prepare for the TOEFL exam.

• Degree Programs – Continue your education by enrolling in one of Ivy College's degree programs, including Business Administration, Healthcare Administration, Healthcare Management, Cybersecurity, or Biblical Studies.

Our Admissions Team can help you choose the path that best aligns with your academic and career goals.

F-1 students become eligible for a vacation quarter after completing three consecutive quarters of full-time enrollment at Ivy College.

Please note that vacation eligibility is not cumulative. If you choose not to take your vacation quarter when you become eligible, it will not carry over to future terms. To maintain your F-1 status, you must remain enrolled full-time during all other required quarters.

If you are considering taking a vacation quarter, we encourage you to contact our Admissions Team for guidance and approval before making any plans.

Yes. F-1 students may travel during their program, but it is important to plan ahead and obtain the proper documentation before leaving the United States.

Before traveling, you must:

• Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) for approval.

• Obtain a valid travel signature on your Form I-20.

• Ensure your passport, F-1 visa, and I-20 are valid.

When returning to the United States, you should carry:

• A valid passport

• A valid F-1 visa

• Your Form I-20 with a valid travel signature

• Any additional documents requested by immigration officials

Important: Students who do not have a valid F-1 visa stamp in their passport may not be able to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad. In most cases, students without a valid visa stamp must apply for and obtain a new F-1 visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate before returning. We strongly encourage students to consult with their DSO before making any international travel plans.

In most cases, students with a pending F-1 Change of Status application are not eligible to obtain a driver's license because their F-1 status has not yet been approved by USCIS.

Once your Change of Status application is approved, please provide a copy of your approval notice to the Admissions Office. We will update your student record and issue an updated Form I-20 reflecting your F-1 status.

After your records have been updated, you may visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and apply for a driver's license using your updated I-20, approval notice, and any other documents required by the DMV.

Please note that DMV requirements may vary, so we recommend checking with your local DMV office for the most current information.