Center for International Education

At Salem State University, we are committed to offering an educational experience that prepares students to become active participants in the global community. Our efforts are guided by our vibrant and diverse campus community, our hundreds of international students, robust global partnerships, a multitude of curricular and extracurricular activities, and an active committee for comprehensive internationalization comprised of faculty and administrators representing all aspects of academic and campus life.

Eunice Nzuka, a study abroad student at Salem State from the DCR

Eunice Nzuka '20

From The Democratic Republic of the Congo to Salem State

"I would recommend Salem State University to any international student who wants a quality, affordable education in a beautiful, historic city near Boston. There are over 30 majors to choose from and faculty and staff are very helpful and supportive."

Read Eunice's story

The Center for International Education (CIE) at Salem State University coordinates international programs and outreach for students, faculty, and scholars, both domestic and international. Our mission is that every Salem State student have the opportunity for global engagement that enrich their experiences and allow for a deeper understanding of the world.

We offer comprehensive immigration services and support for international students and scholars, faculty support for global initiatives, and provide advising for students who want to study abroad.

American Language and Culture Institute

Achieve your goals through personalized English instruction
International Students

Discover our international student community
Study Abroad

Take the adventure of a lifetime

Global Partnerships

Preparing you to become a citizen of the world
CCIEE-AASCU China Dual Degree 1-2-1 and Exchange Programs

Students can earn a dual degree from both a Chinese and U.S. institution
Visiting International Scholars Institute (VISI)

Spend a semester or a year learning in the U.S.

First and foremost, international students are a welcomed and vibrant part of our campus community. Through the Center for International Education, the International Students’ Association, and the services and events offered on campus, we all want your experience at Salem State to be rewarding, memorable and one that allows all your goals to be achieved.

Students from China hanging out at Salem Willows Beach

Salem State University is a welcoming and caring campus community distinguished by academic quality and small class size. We have over 285 students from 58 countries who experience a student-centered approach to teaching and learning; dedicated faculty and staff; students who strive to do and be their best; and accomplished alumni who are making a difference in their professions, their communities, and the wider world. Our university educates and empowers Salem State’s students to become responsible global citizens and contributors to the regional community and economy.

Whether you are an international student, visiting scholar or whether you want to study abroad, the Center for International Education and our staff can assist you. Should you need to improve your English language skills before applying to earn an undergraduate or graduate degree, the Intensive English Language Program can help you succeed. You can learn more about our dynamic degree programs taught by world-class faculty at the College of Arts and Sciences, the Bertolon School of Business, the Maguire-Meservey School of Health and Human Services, the School of Education, and the School of Graduate Studies.

Ready to Apply to Salem State?

International students interested in attending Salem State should visit our admissions page where they can also learn about our affordable tuition and fees.

Salem State University has advantages that distinguish us and allow students to have a richer more rewarding academic and cultural experience! We offer:

Student-centeredness and a close community
A small-college feel in a university setting
15/1 faculty-student ratio
Average class size 21
30 kilometers from Boston and one of the most historic and important cities in the US
Location in a historic, seaside city
Student employment opportunities on campus
Opportunities for internships and OPT/CPT
Graduate Assistantships for qualified graduate students
Affordable tuition
Intensive English program should you need time to improve your English
Undergraduate SAT test optional (TOEFL or IELTS required)
Most graduate programs are GRE optional (TOEFL or IELTS required)