International Students

Steps to Enroll

To reserve your space, complete these steps in the SOLAR System using your Stony Brook ID number and password by November 1 for Spring 2025 and May 1 for Fall 2025 or the date on your letter of admission.

Pay your $150 Tuition Deposit

Pay your $200 Campus Housing Deposit (if applicable)*

Pay your $325 New Student Fee

Submit Your Deposit

Guide to Paying Your Deposit

Refund Policies

Your Next Steps

Once you have enrolled and submitted your deposit, check your StartSBU Portal for the next steps!

Admitted student requirements will be listed out in your StartSBU portal. Once your requirements are fulfilled, you will see a checklist highlighting items that you need to complete. Your checklist items are personalized based on a variety of factors unique to you. For a full list of your checklist items, please visit your StartSBU portal.

Access Your StartSBU Portal

Screenshot showing the StartSBU portal checklist

A Note From Housing

*International students are strongly encouraged to live on-campus. New full-time first-year students are guaranteed housing provided the tuition/housing deposit is received in SOLAR by December 1 for spring admission; May 1 for fall admission.

Housing Portal

Receiving Your I-20

Document your ability to meet all educational and living expenses for one year of study in accessVIS, Stony Brook's portal for visa and immigration services. If you are unable to provide proof of financial support, you will not be eligible to receive an I-20 or to enroll at Stony Brook University. After you have paid your tuition deposit and submitted your visa application, we will begin preparing your I-20. Admitted students who do not fully document proof of financial support after they submit their deposits should be aware of our deposit refund policies. Do not schedule an appointment with your consulate or schedule travel plans until you have received your I-20.

Log into AccessVIS

Freshman Launch Year (FLY)

Stony Brook University prides itself on delivering a world-class education and fostering global opportunities for our students. The Freshman Launch Year (FLY) program is a unique experience designed to launch the global education of newly admitted Stony Brook University students from their very first semester as an SBU student.

A Tailored Academic Experience
- Study at one of our partner institutions in Florence, Seoul, or Shanghai, where you'll take pre-mapped courses that fit seamlessly into your degree plan.
- Earn Stony Brook credits that count toward your graduation requirements.
- Enjoy full academic support from SBU’s on-site program directors and advisors.
Discover Cultures Beyond the Classroom
- Dive into the vibrant cultures of your chosen location through social events, cultural activities, and unique local experiences.
- Build lifelong friendships and connections that span the globe.
Personal and Professional Growth
- Gain confidence and develop problem-solving and communication skills through intercultural interactions.
- Stand out to employers with a unique global perspective—less than 3% of American students study abroad, making your experience a valuable edge.

Whether you want to explore the metropolis of Shanghai, connect to the world's leading technology hub of Seoul, or take a deep dive into the arts and culture of Florence, you will be immersed in the Stony Brook experience and making degree progress before ever stepping foot on campus!