For those looking to study abroad in the United States, Saint Leo University is an exceptional choice. As a private Catholic university situated in St. Leo, Florida, it operates 1 main campus (University Campus) alongside multiple regional education centers across the Tampa Bay Area and surrounding region. International students can choose from 60+ undergraduate, graduate certificate, and master's degree programs across 3 intakes per year: August, January, and May. To help you maximize your study abroad experience, many of these programs include Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) opportunities.
This comprehensive guide walks Saint Leo University international students through everything they need to know — from tuition fees and scholarships to entry requirements and the step-by-step application process via ApplyBoard.
About Saint Leo University
Established in 1889, Saint Leo University enrolls over 16,000 students across campuses in St. Leo, Tampa, and several online/regional education centers. The main campus is located at University Campus, approximately 35 miles from Tampa, Florida. Because the Tampa Bay Area is one of the country's fastest-growing technology and innovation corridors, Saint Leo University is a well-positioned choice for international students targeting careers in Business, Criminal Justice, and Psychology. Start your journey seamlessly with ApplyBoard today.
Explore Saint Leo University Programs
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Saint Leo University Fees for International Students
International tuition at Saint Leo University ranges from approximately USD $14,000 to $36,280 per year, depending on the program. In general, international students can expect to pay approximately USD $36,280 to $36,280 per year for undergraduate programs, and USD $14,000 to $27,500 for graduate programs. Because costs vary significantly by degree, we recommend checking the Saint Leo University international tuition and fees page to get an accurate figure for your specific program before applying.
Note: Tuition at Saint Leo University is billed per semester and set annually. Fees vary by program and are listed on individual program pages. The figures shown here are estimates only. Always confirm the exact cost for your program before applying.
How to Pay Tuition
Saint Leo University accepts international tuition payments through multiple methods. Payments through the Student Portal are processed via PayMyTuition. You can also pay using eChecks and major credit/debit cards to convert your home currency, through web banking, or via international wire transfer. Full payment information is available upon admission.
International Student Scholarships
Saint Leo University offers financial support to eligible international students through several merit-based scholarships and awards. Most awards are automatic — students are considered based on their admissions application, with no separate scholarship application required — and many are stackable, meaning eligible students can combine a merit award with the Global Citizen Award or Honors Program Scholarship.
Note: Scholarship availability and eligibility criteria are subject to change year to year, and figures above reflect the 2026–2027 award cycle. Check the Saint Leo University international financial aid page for the most up-to-date information and application deadlines.
Programs at Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University offers over 60 programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree levels. The university has 3 academic schools/colleges, with particular strengths in Business, Criminal Justice, Psychology, and Computer Science.
College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services
The College of Arts, Sciences, and Allied Services provides a broad liberal arts education that fosters critical and independent thinking. It supports over 40 programs, ranging from biology to psychology, and offers dynamic learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
Donald R. Tapia College of Business and Technology
As the largest Catholic business college in the United States, this college provides a values-centered education that develops tomorrow's business leaders. It features a LEED Gold-certified facility and emphasizes entrepreneurial leadership and interconnectedness.
College of Health Professions
Dedicated to the advancement of health care, the College of Health Professions offers innovative interdisciplinary degrees in Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, and Health Education. It is designed to prepare students for impactful roles within a Culture of Health framework.
Note: Check the ApplyBoard platform for currently available programs, intakes, and STEM-designated options for Saint Leo University.
Admission Requirements
Entry requirements at Saint Leo University vary by program level. The general minimums below are a guide — always confirm specific requirements for your chosen program before applying.
- Undergraduate programs: Saint Leo evaluates secondary credentials against country-specific benchmarks rather than a single GPA cutoff. For example, applicants with a U.S. high school diploma typically need a GPA of 2.0 (C) or higher on a 4.0 scale; equivalent minimums apply for other national credentials (e.g., WAEC/NECO C6 average, CBSE/CISCE 50% or C2, GCE-O Level D or higher in 5 subjects). A full country-by-country breakdown is available on the Saint Leo University international admissions page.
- Graduate programs: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale from a regionally accredited (or equivalent) bachelor's degree is generally required. Some programs will consider applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.99 for conditional admission, and select programs may require GRE/GMAT scores or a degree in a related field.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions are required (often requiring a credential evaluation like WES).
- Passport: A photocopy of the biographical page of a valid passport.
- Proof of financial ability: A completed Certificate of Finances form plus supporting financial documentation (e.g., bank statements or letters, government or organization scholarship letters) showing sufficient funds to cover at least one year of academic and living expenses. Documents must be in English (or accompanied by a notarized translation) and dated within six months of submission.
English Language Requirements
Most international applicants must submit proof of English language proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Duolingo English Test. Minimum scores vary by program — confirm the requirement for your specific program on the Saint Leo University program page or the ApplyBoard platform before applying.
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How to Apply to Saint Leo University Through ApplyBoard
You apply to Saint Leo University through the ApplyBoard platform. The application fee is USD $0 at the time of submission. Processing begins once Saint Leo University has received a complete application.
Note: Submission processing timelines are optimized for rapid turnaround. ApplyBoard typically completes the submission pipeline within 12 hours of receipt. Once submitted to the institution, standard evaluation timelines apply.
Before you apply, prepare the following documents:
- Valid passport (biographical page)
- Official academic transcripts (with certified English translations and credential evaluations if required)
- English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo)
- Financial declaration or bank statements showing sufficient funds for one year of study
Submit your application through the ApplyBoard platform. Choose your program, preferred campus, and intake. Apply as early as possible — popular programs fill up quickly.
Once reviewed, you will receive an Official Letter of Admission. Review it carefully to accept your offer and note any enrollment deadlines.
Pay the required enrollment deposit and submit your financial documents (if not already done) to request your Form I-20. The Form I-20 is a critical legal document that certifies your eligibility for nonimmigrant student status. You cannot apply for a visa without it.
Once you have your Form I-20, you must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and apply for your F-1 Student Visa. You will complete the DS-160 form online and schedule a visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.
Travel to your campus city and attend international student orientation.
Note: International students in the US are generally required to have health insurance and meet specific immunization requirements before registering for classes.
Frequently Asked Questions: Saint Leo University
Saint Leo University has 1 main campus and several regional education centers across Florida and Georgia. The main campus is located approximately 35 miles from Tampa.
After you receive your official offer of admission and pay your required enrollment deposit, you must submit proof of funding. Once verified, Saint Leo University's international office will issue your Form I-20. You will use this document to apply for your F-1 student visa.
Yes. Eligible international students at Saint Leo University on an F-1 visa can apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to gain work experience during their studies, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for post-graduation employment. Students in designated STEM programs may be eligible for an OPT extension.
Yes, but with strict limitations. F-1 students are generally permitted to work on-campus up to 20 hours per week while school is in session, and full-time during official school breaks. Off-campus employment requires specific authorization (like CPT or OPT) and must be related to your field of study.
Saint Leo University offers international students a career-focused education in the heart of Florida. If you are ready to explore programs and apply, your ApplyBoard counselor can guide you through every step.
Explore Saint Leo University Programs
Browse all available Saint Leo University programs on the ApplyBoard platform and apply today.