BSU has supported international students in every way – financially, academically, physically and emotionally – and continues to do so in the face of new and increased challenges.
Studying in a foreign country is a life-changing opportunity, but can be expensive. That’s where Bridgewater State University’s nationally recognized affordability gives students from abroad who pursue the fantastic educational opportunities here an advantage.
BSU is among the 15 most affordable colleges in the country for international students, according to a new analysis from U.S. News & World Report comparing 976 schools that provided international student tuition for the 2017-2018 academic year.
“While heavily populated states such as California and New York dominate when it comes to the number of international students, budget-minded learners can often find good deals in less traditional destinations,” the report says.
At $7,050, Bridgewater came in eighth, tied with several sister state universities in Massachusetts.
This affordability is important given the expenses international students face. Airfare could be $1,000 to $1,600. Meanwhile, Department of Homeland Security fees for degree-seeking students are increasing from $200 to $350.
“BSU has supported international students in every way – financially, academically, physically and emotionally – and continues to do so in the face of new and increased challenges,” said Jennifer Currie, G’17, associate director of International Student & Scholar Services.
Bridgewater has been a home away from home for students from around the world, including Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, China, Dominican Republic, India, Nigeria, Poland and Turkey.
“International students play a key role in globalizing the campus by bringing their culture, experiences and perspectives with them,” Currie said. “Having a diverse group of students here helps not only our current faculty, students and staff learn more, but they also get the chance to interact with the local community. They contribute to our local social networks and economy and enrich every life they touch.”
These Bears return home with new experiences and the chance to spread what they learned in Bridgewater around the world.
“During times of political and financial challenges, it’s imperative that we remain open to supporting the exchange of knowledge, ideas and people,” Currie said. “Bringing and raising awareness of differences helps us celebrate them, not be afraid of them.”
Do you have a BSU story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu.