Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you cannot find answers to your questions below, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Visiting Dallas International

May I visit DIU before I come as a student?

Certainly! Check out our Visit DIU page to schedule a visit today!

Does DIU host a Campus Preview Day event?

Twice a year Dallas International University hosts a Campus Preview Day event for prospective students, usually in March and October. We are also happy to arrange a personalized visit for you as needed. Check out our Campus Preview Day page for more information. To register for Campus Visit Day or to learn more contact our recruiting office at discover@diu.edu or by phone at 972-708-7343.

Application Status

Which application form should I use to apply to DIU?

It depends on what level of courses and how many courses you intend to take. Generally, applicants are encouraged to apply for the highest level admission status for which they qualify. If you only want to take a few courses, Gateway admission allows you to take up to 10 credits at DIU. Graduate admission allows you to take an unlimited number of either undergraduate or graduate credits. Undergraduate admission allows you to take an unlimited number of undergraduate credits and also allows you to petition to take up to 9 credits of graduate-level courses.

What is Gateway admission?

Gateway admission is a quick way to take a few courses at DIU. All we typically need, apart from the application form, is a transcript. Gateway admission status limits you to no more than 10 semester hours of classes at DIU.

What is the difference between applying for undergraduate admission and applying for the B.A. program?

By procedure, all DIU students are admitted as “non-degree seeking” students. Students seeking a bachelor’s degree at DIU will complete an Intended Plan of Study (IPS) with the help of their academic advisor. The IPS is normally completed by the end of the student’s first semester. Approval of the IPS by the College of International Studies marks acceptance of the student into a particular B.A. degree program.

With undergraduate admission status you can take any of our undergraduate courses for credit. Undergraduate students can also petition to take up to 9 hours of graduate-level classes. If you are seeking a B.A. from DIU, you will apply for undergraduate admission status and submit one additional document–a faith/code of conduct statement.

How many credits of graduate-level classes can I take with undergraduate admission?

Undergraduate students at DIU can petition to take up to 9 credits of graduate-level classes. In order to take more than 9 credits of graduate-level classes at DIU, you will need to seek Graduate admission status.

Do I need to apply for graduate status?

If you have a completed bachelor’s degree and intend to take more than 9 credits of graduate-level classes at DIU, you should apply for graduate admission status. Graduate admission status permits enrollment in any graduate-level class, as well as any undergraduate-level class which may be a prerequisite to your expected graduate-level work. Gateway students are limited to taking 10 credits, and Undergraduate students are allowed to take up to 9 credits of graduate-level classes by petition. So, Graduate admission status will allow for the most flexibility for students intending to take several graduate-level classes.

Which application do I use to audit a course?

There is no application form for students who only want to audit courses. In order to audit a course, a student must apply for and be accepted to DIU in one of our regular admission statuses. See Admission FAQ “Which application form should I use to apply to DIU?” Once you are admitted, you and your academic advisor can present an Audit Permission form for approval. For more information about auditing, visit our Registrar FAQ: “How to Audit a course?”

Which application should I fill out for an online course?

There is not a separate application for students who intend to study at DIU via distance-ed. The correct application form for you to use should be determined by the level (graduate vs. undergraduate) and the number of credits you hope to take. See Admission FAQ “Which application form should I use to apply to DIU?”

Application Requirements

What are the deadlines for applying and registering?

Visit our Admissions and Registration deadlines page for a complete list of deadlines.

When is my application due?

DIU practices rolling admissions, without a single deadline for all new applicants. Admission deadlines are based on a student’s intended first term at DIU.

Students are encouraged to start the application process by March 1st for May, Summer, or Fall terms and by September 1st for Spring term. A late fee of $50 will be required if the application form is submitted fewer than six weeks before the applicant’s intended first day of class. All required application documents (references, transcripts, etc.) must be received at least 4 weeks before the applicant’s intended first day of class.

Please see our Admissions and Registration Deadlines page for more detail.

How much is the application fee?

An application fee is required for those seeking Undergraduate or Graduate admission status at DIU.

The application fee is $50 US dollars.

No application fee is required for those seeking Gateway admission status.

An additional late fee of $50 will be required if the application form is submitted fewer than six weeks before the applicant’s intended first day of class.

Please see DIU’s Admissions and Registration Deadlines for specific dates regarding late fees.

When is the application fee due?

Your application fee payment should be made at or near the time you submit your application. An application for Gateway admission does NOT require an application fee.

Please see DIU’s Admissions and Registration Deadlines for specific dates regarding late fees.

How do I pay my application fee?

  • online via PayPal by using the links on the Undergraduate or Graduate admission pages of the DIU website
  • via regular post — Send a check or money order made out to Dallas International University to this address:
    DIU Admissions
    DIU-100
    7500 W Camp Wisdom Rd
    Dallas, TX  75236
    USA

What is a statement of purpose?

This is a short statement indicating  1) why you chose to apply to DIU, 2) what you hope to gain in your studies here, and 3) what you hope to do with the education you receive here. A typical statement of purpose is 2-3 paragraphs long. The Statement of Purpose form can be found on our website.

How many references do I need to provide?

Undergraduate and Graduate applicants need to supply us with 3 references from non-family members using the form on our website. Gateway applicants are not required to submit references.

The form should be sent from each reference directly to:

DIU Admissions
DIU-100
7500 W. Camp Wisdom Rd.
Dallas, TX 75236
USA

or via email to admissions@diu.edu.

Whom can I ask to do my letters of recommendation?

Non-family members only. If your performance in undergraduate studies was less than stellar, we recommend you choose at least two references who can vouch for your ability to succeed academically (e.g. former professors). Otherwise, you can choose people from your work history, church history, or long-time friends/acquaintances. The recommendation form can be found on our website.

What transcripts must I provide?

Each application type has different transcript requirements. Generally, applicants should provide official school records that are relevant to their intended courses or program at DIU. Official transcripts are required for any credits a student wishes to transfer to a degree program at DIU from another institution.

For Undergraduate Admission, DIU requires official copies of previous academic transcripts according to your level of academic experience. If you have completed at least 24 credits at the freshman, undergraduate-level with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.80, please submit only the transcripts showing those credits earned. If you have fewer than 24 credits completed, please submit your high school transcript showing completion of high school or a GED credential, plus transcripts showing any undergraduate-level credits earned.

For Graduate Admission, DIU requires official copies of all post-high school transcripts showing classes completed, grades attained, and degree(s) (or diploma) granted where courses were taken toward a degree or pertaining to an expected study program at DIU. A graduate degree transcript may qualify you to not be required to submit undergraduate transcripts. Please see our Graduate Admission GPA requirements for more information.

For Gateway Admission, DIU requires an official copy of at least one transcript showing classes completed, grades attained, and degree(s) (or diploma) granted which shows an appropriate level of education for the course(s) the student wishes to take as a Gateway student. Ideally, transcripts should show the highest level of schooling you have completed so far.

Gateway applicants who want to qualify for Gateway Restricted admission status, which allows students to take only undergraduate-level courses, should supply:

  • transcripts showing the completion of 24 or more undergraduate credits with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.00, OR
  • a transcript showing graduation from high school with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 plus any undergraduate transcripts, OR
  • a General Educational Development (GED) credential, plus any undergraduate transcripts.

Gateway applicants who want to qualify for full Gateway admission status, which allows students to take graduate-level courses in addition to undergraduate-level courses, should supply:

  • a transcript showing a completed master’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher, OR
  • a transcript showing a completed bachelor’s degree with a cumulative GPA of 2.80 or higher, OR
  • transcripts showing the completion of 72 or more undergraduate-level credits completed with a cumulative GPA of 2.80 or higher.

School records should be sent directly to DIU by the school or testing agency or be in an unopened, signed, and sealed envelope which you received directly from them.

What if one or more of my transcripts is from another country?

Academic records from outside the United States should be sent directly from the institution(s) that issued them to both DIU and to the Educational Credential Evaluators (www.ECE.org) to verify U.S. equivalency of courses taken and grades and degrees received. DIU requires a “course-by-course evaluation.” If you go to ECE’s website, click “Apply Now,” select your country, and then “List of required documents,” you will see which school records to submit and how to submit them to ECE.

How good do my grades need to be to be considered for admission to DIU?

At least 2.75 cumulative GPA in your high school studies, if applying for undergraduate admission status with 0-23 undergraduate credit hours.

At least 2.00 cumulative GPA for all undergraduate classes taken, if you haven’t yet completed a bachelor’s degree or if you plan to take only undergraduate-level classes.

At least 2.80 cumulative GPA on 72 or more undergraduate credit hours in all undergraduate degrees or classes if you plan to take any graduate-level classes.

Do I have to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?

Dallas International University does not require Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores from someone seeking Undergraduate or Gateway admission status.

For Graduate admission status, you will need at least a completed bachelor’s degree. GRE will be required if the highest degree you have earned is a bachelor’s degree and:

  • you have completed an undergraduate degree from an institution that is regionally accredited with a cumulative GPA between 2.80 and 3.30, or
  • you have completed an undergraduate degree from an institution that is not regionally accredited with a cumulative GPA of 2.80 or greater

GRE scores presented to DIU should not be more than 5 years old.

If you need to take the GRE, you can find more information at www.ets.org.

Do I have to know what classes I will take at the time I apply?

You do NOT have to know exactly what classes you will be taking, but the more you can tell us about your short and long-term goals on the application (intended major, intended entry semester, intended classes during first term), the more precisely we can advise you during the application process.

What do I need to do to participate in one of DIU’s cooperative programs with another institution?

Each program has different requirements. Check out our Undergraduate Cooperative Programs page or our Seminary Dual Degree and Cooperative Programs page for details about each program.

What are the graduate admission GPA requirements?

In addition to other requirements, to be considered for Graduate Admission, an applicant must fulfill at least one of the following:

    • Completion of a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education with a GPA of at least 3.00, OR
    • Completion of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, with a GPA of at least 3.30, OR
    • Completion of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from any institution with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.80, AND one of the following:
      • satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) (see the “send us your GRE scores” section of the Graduate application page), or
      • Completion of at least 15 graduate credit hours from a regionally accredited institution of higher education with a GPA of at least 3.50

Uncertain if you meet the minimum requirements? Contact us at admissions@diu.edu or 972-708-7415. We would be happy to answer your questions.

International Students

How long does the application process for an international student require?

If a non-US citizen is applying to pursue a degree at DIU and the student will be seeking a student visa to do so, the DIU International Student Office recommends that you submit the application form to DIU at least 6 months before you expect to begin classes. If no visa will be required, we recommend you submit the application form 4 months before you expect to begin classes. 

If a non-US citizen is applying to take only 1-3 classes at DIU (Gateway application), we recommend that you submit the application form to DIU at least 6 weeks before you expect to begin classes. If you need to meet visa qualifications to do so, we recommend you apply 2-3 months before you expect to begin classes. 

Who requires a student visa to study at DIU?

Anyone in the U.S. who is not a citizen of the U.S. and has not been granted temporary or permanent resident status in the U.S. will require a student visa to enroll in classes at DIU. 

  • Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) participating countries who intend to study cannot travel on the VWP except to undertake recreational study as part of a tourist visit. Students must travel to the United States with student (F-1 or M-1) visas. For more information on the VWP, see Visa Waiver Program. 
  • Study leading to a U.S. conferred degree or certificate is not permitted on a visitor (B) visa, even if it is for a short duration. Source: https://visaguide.world/us-visa/nonimmigrant/study-exchange-visas/f1 

What are the requirements for an international student application to DIU?

A student intending to study at DIU must meet all the application requirements for the level of admission he/she will require to complete his/her intended program, and, if a visa will be required to study at DIU, the international application requirements. The three levels of admission at DIU are: 

Of the many requirements for an international applicant to DIU which should I do first?

First things first: submit an online application form and pay the application fee, if required, once you have decided to apply. Then– 

If you are seeking gateway admission to DIU, 1) Send us your transcripts, and 2) if you are a non-native speaker of English, establish that you have adequate English proficiency for studies at DIU English Language Proficiency Requirements and Send us your transcripts (gateway)  

If you are seeking either graduate or undergraduate admission status 1) Send us your transcripts; 2) send your transcripts for an official transcript evaluation; and 3) if you are a non-native speaker of English establish that you have adequate English proficiency for studies at DIU. See English Language Proficiency Requirements and Send us your transcripts (graduate) and Send us your transcripts (undergraduate)  

Where do I send my overseas transcripts for evaluation?

Academic records from outside the United States or Canada should be sent to both Dallas Int’l and to the Educational Credential Evaluators (www.ECE.org), the school record evaluation service that we recommends, to verify U.S. equivalency of courses taken and grades and degrees received. Dallas Int’l requires a “course-by-course evaluation.” If you go to ECE’s website, click “Apply Now,” select your country, and then “List of required documents,” you will see which school records to submit and how to submit them to ECE.

If successful completion of your secondary school included mandatory national testing, please also provide ECE with an official copy (per their instructions) of exams taken and scores received to be included in their evaluation report.

Can an international student work while enrolled at DIU?

Non-US citizens, including international students, are only allowed to work in the U.S in certain circumstances and only with prior permission to do so. See the Employment for Internationals page of our website.

Do international students have to fill out U.S. tax forms?

Yes, most internationals in the US are required to fill out at least one form each year. See the US Tax Law for Internationals page to learn more.

Non-native English speakers

What level of English proficiency is required to study at DIU?

Please visit the English Language Proficiency Requirements page of our website.

Housing & Other Services

Does DIU have campus housing?

DIU does not own or operate its own housing but there are several on-campus housing options available to students. Visit our Housing page for more information.

What off-campus housing options are available?

In addition to several one-story multiplexes operated by the SIL Housing office across there street, there are some rentals in the area owned  by International Linguistic Center (ILC) employees or related personnel which may have vacancies. For more information on SIL/ILC-related rentals visit our Housing page.

Other options: Our campus is located within minutes of several privately-run apartment complexes. Try a google search to locate more information about those possibilities.

Is housing included in the cost for Dallas International intensive courses?

No, it is not.  Intensive courses at Dallas International have a short on-campus component, but the housing costs are not included in the course tuition and fees. Visit our Housing page for information about short-term housing options.

What will my address be if I am an SIL Guest House resident?

Your mailing address will be:
GSH-101
7500 W. Camp Wisdom Rd.
Dallas, TX 75236

Whom do I contact about my disability?

Contact the Dean of Students at dean-students@diu.edu.  In order for Dallas International to make reasonable accommodations, it is the responsibility of students with disabilities to establish their ADA status to the satisfaction of the Dean of Students. Request for accommodation must be presented in writing to the Dean of Students at least 30 days prior to registration.

Does DIU provide student health insurance?

DIU does not sponsor a health insurance plan for its students.

International students with a DIU-sponsored visa are required to have adequate health insurance coverage for themselves and their immediate family members while they are in the United States. For more information please visit our International Student Health Insurance page.

Non-international students are strongly encouraged to obtain health insurance coverage for themselves and their families during their time of study at DIU. Students are welcome to find a plan that meets their needs. For more information please visit our Student Health Insurance page.

Does DIU have a Student Health Center?

No, DIU does not own or operate a health center. However, DIU students and their families, by contract, have access to the SIL International Health clinic facilities during the time they are enrolled in classes on campus.

Does DIU provide child care?

DIU does not provide childcare, but there are several daycares and preschools in the area.

Will I need a car while I am at DIU?

Public transport in Dallas exists and is somewhat accessible (bus connection about ½ mile away), but it is not advisable to rely solely on this for getting places locally (i.e. church, grocery store, home off-campus, etc). A bicycle, at least, is recommended. You can rent an automobile by the day through the SIL housing office (housing-dallas@sil.org or 972-708-7426).

Financial Aid

How do I apply for financial aid?

In preparation for completing the Financial Aid Application, first address the following items:

  • When you submit your application for admission, you will receive an automated email that will include your DIU student ID number. You will need your ID number to complete your Financial Aid Application.
  • Determine your financial need:
    • Identify your study plan at DIU
    • Calculate your school costs per term. (See the Net Price Calculator.)
    • Estimate your living expenses. (See What will it cost?.)
    • Consider the resources you have available and how much more will be needed to pay for your studies.

Complete and submit your Financial Aid Application.

When should I apply?

Your best opportunity for Financial Aid is by applying before the April 1 deadline for the next award year. Financial aid award years run from May term through the following Spring semester. You may still apply if you miss the deadline, but aid covering the remainder of the award year will be distributed as funds are available.

Do I need to be admitted to DIU before I can apply for financial aid?

No. However, before you apply for financial aid, you must submit your application for admission to DIU. After submitting your application for admission, you will receive an email with your DIU student ID number to use in your Financial Aid Application.

What will financial aid cover?

DIU offers several need-based scholarships for students including international students.

Most scholarships cover a percentage of tuition, unlikely to exceed 40%. A few special scholarships cover a larger percentage of expenses.

Do I need to have a certain GPA in order to qualify?

Not necessarily. Only a few of the financial aid scholarships require a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher.

Who qualifies for financial aid?

Any DIU student with financial need may apply for financial aid.

Do I need to be enrolled full-time, or can I be a part-time student?

It doesn’t matter if you are a full-time or part-time student. Some special scholarships require full-time enrollment, but most scholarships do not.

When do I know if I will receive financial aid?

Financial aid awards for the upcoming award year will be announced by mid-April for those who applied by the April 1 deadline. Those who apply for financial aid after the deadline will learn of their award covering the remainder of the award year within a month or two of their application and certainly before their first term at DIU.

Where should I look for other funding?

In addition to applying for DIU financial aid, students are encouraged to check out the outside scholarships page for information on non-DIU scholarships.

Can I use Veterans benefits to pay for my DIU education?

Yes. We are fully certified to accept G. I. Bill benefits. Contact VeteransOfficer@diu.edu for more information.

Do I need to apply each term for financial aid at DIU?

No, this is no longer the case. However, you do need to submit a Financial Aid application for each award year. DIU scholarships apply to a full year, starting with May term and ending with the following Spring semester.

Do I need to reapply for financial aid if I postpone my entry date?

Possibly. Financial aid is awarded on a yearly basis. The award year covers May term through Spring semester of the following year. If you have been awarded financial aid for an award year, you can start in any term of that award year without needing to reapply for financial aid. If you postpone your entry date to a term in a future award year, you will need to apply for financial aid for that award year. All students are expected to apply for financial aid for each award year.

Do I need to reapply for financial aid if I return after a leave of absence?

Financial aid at DIU is now awarded on a yearly basis. If you have been awarded financial aid for the award year in which you intend to return, you do not need to reapply for financial aid for that award year. All students are expected to apply for financial aid for each award year.

 

E.g. if you have been awarded financial aid for May through Spring and you are taking a break with the intention to return to study in that Spring semester, there is no need to reapply for financial aid for that award year.

Once I have been awarded financial aid at DIU, what do I need to do to keep it?

There are varying requirements depending on the scholarship terms. The basic requirements are:

  • accepting the scholarship by agreeing to the DIU Financial Aid Scholarship Terms Agreement, and
  • providing information for a thank-you note to the scholarship donor.

Some special scholarships will require very specific terms in order to maintain your scholarship. Once you have accepted the terms and provided information for a thank-you note, your DIU financial aid will be set for the remainder of the award year.

I can’t find a FAFSA code for DIU. Does DIU have one?

DIU has chosen not to participate in FSA programs like direct or campus-based loans or Federal Work-Study and therefore we do not have a FAFSA code. However, the US Department of Education has designated DIU as an eligible institution for Federal Student Aid (FSA) and students attending DIU may receive deferments on existing FSA program loans. If this would apply to you, write to registrar@diu.edu for instructions on deferments of loans.

Other Financial Questions

When do I pay tuition and fees?

All tuition and fees are due no later than the first day of the term. DIU prefers to have payment up front for the entire term, but it is possible to set up a payment plan for an additional fee. Visit our Payment Plans page or email Accounting@diu.edu for more information.

How do I pay tuition and fees?

Visit our Payments page for information about paying your tuition and fees.

Can I pay my tuition and fees with a credit card?

The preferred way to submit a payment is by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) since there is no convenience fee attached with that method of payment. Visit our Payments page and then click on the ‘Pay Now’ button.

We do accept credit/debit card payments through PayPal. However, students who pay their tuition and/or fee obligations by credit/debit card through PayPal will be charged an additional convenience fee of 3% of their total charges.

Alternatively, you can pay by check. Make checks payable to Dallas International University. Please write your name and the term on the memo line (e.g., John Smith Fall 2018). You can pay in person at the Finance office (Pike 112) or mail your payments to:

Dallas International University
Attn: DIU-100, Finance Office
7500 W. Camp Wisdom Road
Dallas, TX 75236

Visit our Payments page for more information. To discuss other payment options please contact our Finance Office staff, who are available to help you.

Can I pay in installments if I can’t pay the full amount at the beginning of a term?

Your DIU invoice will provide example payment plan options. Please note: DIU does charge a $25 ‘multiple payment fee’ for each additional payment submitted after the initial payment of a payment plan. Visit our Payment Plans page or email Accounting@diu.edu for more information.

What is a 1098-T, and what do I need to do with it?

For information about the 1098-T, please visit our 1098-T Information page.

Academics & Registrar FAQ

Is Dallas International University accredited?

Yes, Dallas International University is regionally accredited by SACSCOC (https://sacscoc.org/). For complete information visit our accreditation page.

When do my classes start?

Specific start dates vary from term to term, so be sure to check the Course Schedule for the specific term.

What courses are offered in the different terms?

Most DIU courses are offered in either the Fall or Spring terms (with a few courses offered in both). But the other three terms offer a very limited number of courses.

May-Extended term is mainly for Intensive courses offered by CEWA (World Arts department) and CIS (the undergraduate College of International Studies).

Year-term is currently only for students taking the CTD (Certificate in Tropical Agriculture Development) courses taught in person at the ECHO research farm campus in Florida.

Summer term varies in the courses it offers, and overlaps with the longer May-Extended term.

DIU does not publish a single comprehensive full-academic-year PDF schedule of courses for all of our terms. But see the “Academic Calendar” section of the catalog, and the “Typical Course Offerings By Term” section that immediately follows it. Also see the Course Listing section of the catalog to see when any particular course is likely to be offered.

Be aware that DIU is not always able to offer a course in the term that the catalog says it is typically offered, so always consult the course schedule for a specific term to see if it is offered.

What is an intensive course?

An intensive course requires completion of online course work in preparation for and following the intensive on-campus instructional time. For intensive course offerings visit our Online & Intensive Courses page.

Who is my academic advisor?

Your Dallas International academic advisor is listed in Campus Café under the MY INFO – Contact Information tab.  Dallas International considers the academic advising process to be an integral part of each student’s program and provides academic advisors to assist students in selecting courses each term. New students are initially assigned academic advisors and will need to have their advisors approve their schedule prior to completion of registration and payment for classes. Students can request a change of advisor through the Registrar’s Office at any time.

Who is the course instructor?

Instructor names are listed on the course schedule and in  Campus Café under the ALL USERS – Course listing tab. You can learn more about your instructor by visiting our Faculty profiles page.

How do I register for classes?

Registration is completed online using Campus Café. Registration opens March 1st for the May-Extended, Summer, Year, and Fall terms and registration opens September 1st for the Spring term. Visit our Registration page for more information.

What are the full course load and maximum course load numbers?

In Fall and Spring Terms (16 weeks) full-time is considered to be:

  • 12 undergraduate-only semester hours, with a maximum of 18 semester hours
  • 9 graduate-only semester hours or 9 semester hours of any combination of ush and gsh, with a maximum of 15 semester hours
  • 6 semester hours of PhD, 6xxxx-level courses, with a maximum of 12 semester hours

In May Term (4 weeks) full-time is considered to be:

  • 3 undergraduate-only semester hours, with a maximum of 4 semester hours
  • 3 graduate-only semester hours or 3 hours of any combination of ush and gsh, with a maximum of 3 semester hours

In May Extended Term (13 weeks) full-time is considered to be:

  • 9 undergraduate-only semester hours, with a maximum of 15 semester hours
  • 9 graduate-only semester hours or 9 semester hours of any combination of ush and gsh, with a maximum of 12 semester hours
  • 6 semester hours of PhD, 6xxxx-level courses, with a maximum of 9 semester hours

In Summer Term (9 weeks) full-time is considered to be:

  • 6 undergraduate-only semester hours, with a maximum of 12 semester hours
  • 6 graduate-only semester hours or 6 semester hours of any combination of ush and gsh, with a maximum of 9 semester hours

 

Note: For F-1 visa holders on-campus employment pursuant to the terms of an assistantship at the graduate level or higher is deemed to be part of the academic program of a student and equivalent to 3 graduate semester hours.

What is the difference between Canvas and Campus Café?

Campus Café is used by students to apply, register for classes, and update their contact information. Canvas is used by students to take online courses and interact online with many of their on-campus courses.

Can I waive prerequisites?

Students may petition, on a course-by-course basis with proper documentation, to waive prerequisite(s) based on equivalent course(s) taken elsewhere. Any course used as a prerequisite for a graduate course must have a minimum grade of B-.  Any course used as a prerequisite for an undergraduate course must have a minimum grade of C+.  Some courses can be waived by permission of the instructor only. Some specific courses from certain universities are pre-approved and do not require a petition. Contact your advisor if you have questions or would like to submit a petition.

How do I pay tuition and fees?

Visit our Payments page for information about paying your tuition and fees.

What is the Drop/Add policy?

Adding Courses
Classes may only be added through the 5th term day of the 16-week term (Spring, Fall or Year Term), through the 4th term day of the 9-week term (Summer or May-Extended), or the 2nd term day in the 4-week term (May Term).

Dropping / Withdrawing from Courses
Students dropping a course after the 5th term day in a 16-week term (Spring, Fall or Year Term), after the 4th term day in a 9-week term (Summer or May-Extended), or after the 2nd term day in a 4-week term will receive a grade of “W” on the DIU transcript. The time limits for withdrawal from a course are as follows:

  • Term days 6-30 of a 16-week term (Spring, Fall or Year Term)
  • Term days 5-13 of a 9-week term (Summer or May-Extended)
  • Term days 3-7 of a 4-week term (May Term)

Dropping coursework may result in ineligibility for financial aid already awarded and in the student being liable for payment of tuition covered by scholarships 

In most cases a student may not drop a course or withdraw from courses at Dallas International University after the aforesaid dates. Under extreme circumstances, the Dean of Academic Affairs may consider a petition to drop a course or withdraw after these dates.

Note:

‘Term day’ is counted per business day including the first day of the term.

Can I get a refund if I drop a course?

Refund for Dropping Course(s)

A student will receive a refund for any course dropped according to the following scale (calculated separately for each course):

 

Spring/Fall or Year Term

Term days 1-5                         100% tuition and fees

Term days 6-10                         75% tuition only

Term days 11-20                       25% tuition only

After term day 20                     None

 

Summer or May-Extended Term

Term days 1-4                         100% tuition and fees

Term days 5-8                          75% tuition only

Term days 9-12                        25% tuition only

After term day 12                     None

 

May Term

Term days 1-2                         100% tuition and fees

Term days 3-4                          75% tuition only

Term days 5-6                          25% tuition only

After term day 6                       None

 

Dropping coursework may result in ineligibility for financial aid (if full-time enrollment is required). In that case, the student would be liable for repayment of tuition covered by scholarships. Under extraordinary circumstances, students may bring special requests for refunds to the Dean of Students for consideration.

 

Note:

‘Term day’ is counted per business day including the first day of the term.

What textbooks do I need?

  1. Log into Campus Café.
  2. Click on the link located near the top of the Campus Café Home Page screen.
  3. This will link you to the DIU textbook listing for the upcoming term.  Be sure to purchase the correct edition of each required textbook.

NOTE:  DIU does not have a bookstore so you will need to purchase these textbooks online before your classes begin.

Where can I buy textbooks?

Where can I buy textbooks?

DIU does not own or operate a bookstore. You will need to buy your textbooks online. You may use the big vendors or try http://www.BookFinder4U.com which searches multiple online bookstores.

What textbooks do I need?

How do I audit a course?

In order to audit a course, an Audit Permission Form must be approved by the course head / instructor and be submitted to the Registrar’s Office.  Courses taken for audit must be at the student’s current program level or lower, and all prerequisites for an audited course must be completed. The course head will determine the course requirements for each auditor. Auditors must be admitted to DIU and comply with DIU standards.

Audited courses do not qualify for financial aid. Audited courses do not have academic credit. Tuition rates and fees as defined in the current catalog apply to students not enrolled in an academic program. Students currently enrolled in an academic program or alumni who have completed an academic program only pay fees.

Dallas Int’l faculty: Dallas Int’l faculty are allowed to “sit in” on a class with the Department Chair’s recommendation and the approval of the course head, when such action is for the benefit of the institution. No tuition or fees will apply.

Changes from audit status to credit or vice versa may be made only with the signed permission of the instructor on the Student Change Permit and must be made no later than the end of the 5th term day in a 16-week term, the end of the 3rd term day in a 9-week term, or the end of the 2nd term day in a 4-week term.

What is DIU’s attendance policy?

Attendance is monitored for enrolled students in all courses. Students must be present for a minimum of 80% of their scheduled classes and may not be absent for more than four consecutive class sessions. Any student in violation of the attendance policy will receive an F as their final course grade. Exceptions can only be granted by petition to the Office of Academic Affairs.

Absences in a distance education course due to technological failure are considered on a case-by-case basis by the instructor of record. DIU is required to report attendance policy violations for international students and students with federally funded assistance (students receiving VA benefits). Responsibility for class attendance rests with the student.

In accordance with Texas state law (TX ED Code § 51.911), students absent due to the observance of a religious holiday may take examinations or complete assignments scheduled for the day missed within a reasonable time after the absence, if, not later than the 15th day of the course, the student notifies, in writing, the instructor of each course scheduled on that date that the student will be absent for a religious holy day. Only holiday or holy days observed by a religion whose place of worship is exempt from property taxation under Texas Tax Code § 11.20 may be included.

How do I request a transcript?

Visit our Transcript Request page for information on how to request a transcript.

Is admission to DIU the same as admission to a degree program?

No. Students need an approved Intended Plan of Study (IPS) to be admitted to a DIU degree program. Students should complete an Intended Plan of Study form with the help of their advisor and then submit the IPS to the appropriate department for approval. The IPS should normally be completed by the end of the student’s first semester. Find the IPS forms on our Academic Forms page.

What is an Intended Plan of Study (IPS)?

The Intended Plan of Study (IPS) documents a student’s degree and concentration choice and identifies the terms required course work will be completed to graduate at the designated date chosen. Students intending to complete a graduate degree program must have Graduate admission status and submit an approved Intended Plan of Study form. Students intending to complete a BA degree at Dallas International will complete, with the help of his/her academic advisor. The Intended Plan of Study should normally be completed by the end of a student’s first semester. Visit our Academic Forms page to download the IPS for your program.

How long would it take to finish an MA degree?

Taking a full-time load, a student can usually complete a degree in three terms. An additional term may be necessary if the student has not completed the prerequisite courses before coming to Dallas International. The undergraduate prerequisite courses are offered as part of the Certificate in Applied Linguistics.

Can I transfer courses for the MA programs?

Dallas International reserves the right to make final determination of transfer credit acceptability. The student must petition to transfer credit for any coursework to be considered as part of a Dallas International graduate program of study (up to a maximum of 15 graduate credit hours and which have a minimum grade of “B”).  Courses submitted for transfer credit must have been completed no more than 10 years before completion of the Dallas International graduate program. Transferred credits must explicitly list the Dallas International course for which they are being accepted. Transfer credit is accepted only from regionally accredited institutions of higher education or from institutions accredited by the American Theological Society (ATS) or the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE). (See the current Dallas International Catalog for full details)

For transferring credits from foreign institutions, please refer to the instructions in the transcript section of the graduate admission requirements in addition to the transfer instructions in the Dallas International Catalog:  https://www.diu.edu/admissions/applications/graduate/#2-send-us-your-transcripts

Do I really have 10 years to complete my MA degree?

Yes. The MA degree must be completed within 10 years of the date when the first graduate course applied to the degree was taken. If the MA degree is not finished at that time, any credits over 10 years old are lost. The lost credit hours must be replaced.

What are comprehensive exams?

Comprehensive exams (Comps) are taken near the end of a student’s MA studies. Comps cover subject matter in the student’s major concentration, and are an opportunity for the student to demonstrate mastery of that material. The format of the examinations differs somewhat between the departments, although the function is the same. The examinations are scheduled two to five weeks before the end of the term.  See the Academic Calendar for specific dates. Students that choose to write a thesis do not take comprehensive exams.

Do I have to write a thesis?

No. A graduate student has the option of choosing the Thesis or Non-thesis (comprehensive exam) option for all graduate degrees offered at Dallas International. The undergraduate degree does not require a thesis or comprehensive exam.

How do I transfer undergraduate semester hours (ush) for the BA program?

Students should complete the Petition to Transfer General Education Credits form.  Visit our Undergraduate Transfer Policy page for more information.

Where is Language Development (LD)?

The Language Development Department (LD) is now the Applied Anthropology Department (AA). The MA in Language Development is now an MA in Language and Culture Studies. Courses that started with LD in the past now start with AA.

When should I register for courses for a given term?

Even if a course is offered in a particular term, if it has an insufficient number of students registered by two weeks prior to the start of a term, it may be cancelled.

Students are encourage to register for courses as early as possible. If you wait too long, a course could be cancelled that your registration might have enabled the course to make. Whether or not a course makes is decided about two weeks before the first day of classes of a new term).

Registration for the Spring term opens September 1.

Registration for the May-Extended, Year-term, Summer, and Fall terms opens March 1.

Giving FAQ

How can I make a gift?

There are several ways for you to make a gift to DIU. Visit our Other Ways to Give page for a full list of options.

Make a credit card gift now
Our online gift form is a safe and quick way to make a very direct impact on DlU. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express as well as Electronic Funds Transfers.

Call to make a gift or ask a question
972.708.7552

Mail a check (make checks payable to Dallas International University or DIU)

Development
Dallas International
7500 W. Camp Wisdom Road
Dallas, Texas 75236

How does DIU benefit from my gift?

Dallas International University receives no federal or state gifts and depends upon the support of individual donors, foundations, and churches. These gifts provide valuable scholarships that allow DIU to provide financial aid to every student in need so that upon graduation they can immediately begin serving. These gifts also provide resources critical to the development and the expansion of our academic programs.

How does my gift make a difference?

Dallas International University is training the next generation of workers in the areas of Bible translation, language development, literacy, and world arts. Our graduates receive exemplary education that is applicable and realistic in solving the real-world problems of illiteracy, poverty, and human suffering. Your gift will help provide funding that makes this possible.

What if I can’t afford to make a large gift this year?

Every gift makes a significant impact, and it helps us equip those who will minister cross-culturally. A gift of any amount will be greatly appreciated.

Why should I give to DIU?

Dallas International University’s purpose is rooted in the conviction that the Bible should be available in everyone’s heart language. Our graduates’ work makes a difference in people’s lives which will last long after they are gone. This means that your gift will have a global, multi-generational impact.

How do I secure a Corporate Matching-gift Programs gift for DIU?

Click to view a list of companies who participate in corporate gift matching programs.  Not on the list? Ask your company if they would like to participate.