Applying to college as an international student can seem overwhelming, but the admissions team at Converse is here to help you. Submitting your application is the first step toward starting your journey at Converse, and we make that easier with no application fee.
Step 1 – Application
Complete your online application. You can also apply through the Common Application.
Step 2 – SAT/ACT Scores
If you’re pleased with your SAT or ACT scores and think they reflect your academic ability, you may submit them for consideration. However, test scores are not required for admission. All applications will be reviewed for admission and merit-based financial aid (including scholarships granted by Converse College) with or without test scores. Converse’s SAT code is 5121 and our ACT code is 3852.
Step 3 – Transcripts
Send your transcripts using one of the credit evaluation agencies below. If you are graduating high school this year you will need to send your official high school transcripts. If you have already started college, you’ll need to send official transcripts from each college you have attended.
For admission in Fall 2020, Converse College will accept transcript evaluations from any National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) organization.
World Education Services
High school students: Submit a Document-by-Document report.
Transfer students: Submit a Course-by-Course report.
Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
High school students: Submit a General evaluation.
Transfer students: Submit a Course-by-Course evaluation.
Step 4 – Language Test Scores
If you are from a non-English speaking country, please submit your TOEFL or IELTS scores. Converse will accept the Duolingo English test. Please contact the Office of Admissions for details. If English is your first language or if you score 500 or above on the SAT Critical Reading section, you do not need to send language test scores.
| Language Test | Score |
|---|---|
| TOEFL IBT | 79 |
| TOEFL Paper | 550 |
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| Duolingo | 100 |
Step 5
After you’ve been admitted, you’ll need to send your enrollment deposit to reserve your place at Converse and start the process for the immigration document, I-20.
Step 6 – Declaration of Finances
Once you have been admitted to Converse and have submitted your enrollment deposit, you’ll need to submit proof of financial means to study in the United States by completing the Declaration of Certification of Finances Form. Financial verification for international students is required to issue the immigration document, I-20.
Step 7 – Copy of Passport
Along with the Declaration of Finances form, please provide a copy of your passport page to the Admissions Office that has your full name, picture ID, place of birth, and birth date. This information is needed to create the I-20 document.
Step 8 – Auditions and Portfolio Reviews for the School of the Arts
If you’re planning on developing your talents in music, musical theatre, theatre, or art & design, you’ll need to complete an audition or portfolio review. You can find more information about this step here.
Step 9 – Health Insurance
After you’re admitted, you’ll want to make sure you have health and accident insurance that will protect you while you’re at Converse. Health and accident insurance are a requirement for international students, and you’ll need to show proof of insurance prior to enrolling.
Important Dates
September 1st – Apply
Apply to Converse and send us your transcripts, test scores, and forms. Applying sooner will allow you more time to learn about Converse.
March 1st – Application Priority Date
Your completed application with all documentation should be sent to us by March 1st. Applications for the fall may close after this day.
May 1st – National Reply Date, Enrollment Deposits Due
After you’ve been admitted, you’ll need to send your enrollment deposit prior to May 1st to reserve your place at Converse.
Since our tuition reset in 2014, Converse provides you with a private college education at a public university price.
| 2020-2021 Tuition, Room and Board | |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Tuition and Fees | $19,500 |
| Room and Board | $11,600 |
| Total | $31,100 |
Tuition, room and board goes further at Converse with many benefits such as included laundry, cable TV, and micro-fridges that you’d pay extra for at other colleges. However, students are responsible for some additional fees including Student Government Association, laboratory or studio costs, private music lessons, and others. You can find a full schedule of fees in the current academic catalog.
Scholarships and Aid
Out-of-State
Students who reside outside of South Carolina and who have a 1000 SAT, equivalent ACT, or better will receive a $1000 scholarship.
Endowed Academic Scholarships
By completing your application on-time, you’re automatically considered for endowed academic scholarships. These awards range in value based on students’ academic profiles.
Converse Scholars Day
Admitted students with strong academic profiles will be invited to a Converse Scholars Day. Qualified students must be admitted to the college prior to November 1st or February 1st to receive an invitation to Converse Scholars Day. In addition to meeting top faculty and other Converse Scholars, you may receive additional endowed academic scholarships in varying amounts, including full tuition and full comprehensive scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on a faculty or staff interview as well as your merit, extra-curricular activities and community involvement.
Talent Scholarships for Athletics, Music, and the Arts
If you’re going to be competing as a Valkyrie for one of our NCAA II Division sports, contact your coach about potential scholarships. And, if you’re interested in studying music, musical theatre, theatre, or the arts, see information below about auditioning and additional aid.
Is your vision to develop your talents as an artist or performer? Converse School of the Arts (SOA) may be the answer to your quest. High school seniors are invited to compete for talent based scholarships in Art, Dance, Music, Musical Theatre and Theatre. To be admitted in to the Petrie School of Music, auditions are required.
Audition and Portfolio Review Process
1. Complete your application for admission to Converse.
2. Submit the audition/portfolio application for your specific area of interest:
Music
Theatre & Dance
Musical Theatre
Art Portfolio Review
3. Submit a teacher recommendation letter 1 week prior to your audition or portfolio review date.
More details are listed on your audition application form.
4. Attend your audition or portfolio review
The dates below have been set aside for students to audition or have their portfolios reviewed. In some cases, you may be able to schedule an individual date if you are unable to attend a scheduled audition event. You may also be able to submit a recording or off-campus review.
| Audition and Portfolio Dates | |
|---|---|
| 01/25/2020 | Music |
| 02/14/2020 | Art, Music, Theatre & Dance |
| 03/21/2020 | Art, Theatre & Dance |
| 04/17/2020 | Art, Music, Theatre & Dance |
A visit to Converse is the most authentic way to experience campus life. Immerse yourself in our vibrant, diverse community and get a close-up look at an affordable, top-ranked private college. We believe this experience is such a meaningful part of getting to know Converse that we’ll reimburse you up to $200 for your trip through our travel voucher.
Campus Visit
Spend a day at Converse where you’ll be able to speak with an Admissions Counselor, attend a class, take a campus tour with a current student, and eat in Gee Dining Room. If you’d like, you can also stay overnight with a student or attend a Saturday Open House.
Attend an Event
Admissions Open Houses and other events give you a chance to hear from and speak with faculty, student panels, Admissions Counselors, and other college staff. You’ll also meet other prospective students and parents as you explore all Converse has to offer.
Sign-up for an Admissions Event
Travel Vouchers
We don’t want anything to stand in the way of you getting to experience Converse. Request a travel voucher* before or after you schedule an individual visit or Open House visit and we will reimburse you up to $200 for mileage, lodging, and/or airfare.
*Unfortunately, travel vouchers cannot be used by prospective student-athletes attending as part of an official visit. Please contact your coach or Admissions Counselor if you have questions.
CONTACT US
Want to learn more about Converse? Have questions about the application process?
Get in touch with us, and we’ll get you the information you need!
Phone: 864.596.9040
Email: admissions@converse.edu
Office Hours: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Evenings and weekends by appointment.
