Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates

Where can I get more information on Kent State’s Covid policies and response?

Please see our main university coronavirus hub for a wealth of information, or check our main university Frequently Asked Questions Covid page for institution-wide info on classes and life on campus.

What are Kent State’s plans for Fall 2021 semester?

We expect that a large percentage of courses that are traditionally offered in person will return to in-person instruction. For those who are more comfortable with remote courses, this format still will be available for many courses.

Kent State continues to adhere to the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as interpreted by our local health officials. Following this guidance, classroom seating for students will be three feet apart for fall semester, provided we continue to keep our number of COVID-19 cases low and continue to follow the safety guidelines of the CDC and the state of Ohio.

Face coverings are always required inside the classroom. For up-to-date information on facial covering requirements, please see Facial Covering and Social Distancing Guidelines.

While the 3-foot distance guideline does not allow all in-person classes to resume at full capacity, our in-classroom capacity has significantly increased from the Spring 2021 Semester and the number of courses we offer in person is nearing pre-pandemic levels. Some academic programs have more in-person classroom capacity than others. This depends largely on the facilities available for classroom use, the curriculum of the program and the availability of instructors to teach in person. We continue to work with academic departments to increase the number of in-person classes and experiences by adding additional instructors and further maximizing the use of space.

Please refer to our Reopening the Campus page for more information.

What should I expect if I’m planning to arrive at Kent State in Fall 2021?

For Fall Semester 2021, international students/travelers arriving on campus are expected to follow the CDC guidelines:

• Mandatory COVID-19 test before flying into the U.S.
• Get tested three to five days after arriving in the U.S.
• Self-quarantine upon arrival for seven days with a negative test, or 10 days without a test. This step is not required for those who are fully vaccinated.
• Self-monitor for symptoms.
• Wear a face covering and follow the Flashes Safe Eight protocols during travel.

Will Kent State require testing on campus?

Widespread testing is available to Kent State students, faculty and staff, and in some cases, is required.

Is Kent State requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for the 2021 Fall Semester?

Please see this page for up-to-date vaccine information.

What is the academic calendar for Fall 2021?

Our schedule for the fall semester returns to a traditional format, beginning August 26 and ending December 12, with final exams held December 13-19. Fall break returns this year from October 14-17, and Thanksgiving break from November 24-28. Students will return to campus after Thanksgiving to finish out the semester. See our full calendar for more details.

What type of English language tests are you now accepting for admissions?

English proficiency test scores are required for admission. Effective Fall 2020, we now permanently accept Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English proficiency. Additionally, IELTS and Pearson Vue online tests, IELTS indicator, TOEFL home version and TOEFL ITP Plus will be temporarily accepted as approved examinations for English proficiency requirements. The Graduate program DET score requirements vary by program.

What about GRE and GMAT requirements?

Please follow this link for GRE/GMAT information as it varies by program.

How do I submit my test scores?

Test agencies are still operating and we are monitoring all incoming scores. If you are experiencing difficulties sending your test score, please reach out to us at intladm@kent.edu. Your request will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

How can I participate in a campus tour?

You can explore our beautiful campus in four different ways:

• Take a virtual tour for an immersive experience.
• Watch our campus tour video to get a closer look at our facilities.
• Click your way through our interactive campus map.
• Visit the campus on your own or as part of a small group.

 How can I submit my application documents?

We encourage you to send your application documents through an electronic vendor service or send your materials to intladm@kent.edu. Our postal mail is still received weekly; however, please expect a delay at this time with mail services around the world. 

What if I have difficulties obtaining my academic transcripts due to a school closure?

We are glad to work with you regarding alternative documents instead of the final and official academic credentials. For example, we can take a scanned copy of your academic credentials for admissions purposes. If you have any concerns, please reach out to one of our International Admissions Counselors.

When are the deadlines for scholarships?

Please see our Scholarships Resources page for details and deadlines.

How can I get my I-20?

Once you are admitted, you will need an immigration document in order to obtain your student visa. Our I-20 team will continue sending out I-20s with the DHL courier service. If mail delivery is not available in your country, an electronic I-20 will be issued. Please see our immigration page to learn more about applying for your I-20.

Do I need to notarize my financial documents and affidavit of support in order to get my I-20?

Given the current Covid-19 situation and to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being, you are not required to submit notarized financial documents during this time. However, we still require proof of sufficient finances. Please refer to this page to apply for immigration documents.

How can I get a U.S. visa?

Routine visa service in the U.S. Embassies and Consulates are starting to resume service. Please check your local embassy and consulate for any updates. Consulate wait times can be accessed through the US Department of State website.

If the U.S. consulates and embassies do not reopen in time for me to apply for a student visa, what options do I have?

If you are unable to apply for a student visa in time to begin university due to the embassy closures and delays, you have the option to defer your admission for up to one year. If this is something that interests you, please contact International Admissions at intladm@kent.edu to discuss the steps.

What if I need to change my starting term?

If you are unable to arrive on campus due to visa delays or for any unforeseen circumstances, you can reach out to us at intladm@kent.edu to defer your application to the next available term. Your application and application fee are valid for one year. If you wish to start classes remotely, we will look into remote options for you to start classes through distance learning. Your academic success is important to Kent State University!

If you only intend to study remotely temporarily or you are interested in deferring your admission, please notify us of your plans by submitting the Deferral Request Form. This form will let International Admissions and the team that creates your I-20 know that changes need to be made. If you already have an I-20, then you will need an updated immigration document. This form will help us to take the necessary steps to provide that document to you.

If I begin remote courses at Kent State, can I transition to in-person courses once everything returns to normal?

You can start your classes remotely. Please note that due to the uncertainty of the visa approval process, if you are rejected for a visa for any reason, you might run the risk of starting a program remotely that you cannot complete in person. If the program selected has a fully online option, then there should not be any issues. We encourage you to reach out to us at intladm@kent.edu if you have any concerns.

What do I need to know if I plan to take classes in Fall 2021?

Please see our Fall 2021 Enrollments page for detailed information for new and continuing students regarding course loads, orientation, visas, travelling, academic advising and more.

What else do I need to know as a recently admitted student?

Please see our dedicated page for Newly Admitted Students for more information such as documents, orientation, your online student account and more.