Benedictine University, located near Chicago, is a private institution known for strong academics, practical learning, and a supportive community. International students benefit from graduate programs in fields like business, data science, and health sciences that combine academic excellence with real-world experience. With small classes, personalized advising, and access to Chicago’s job market, Benedictine helps students build skills and advance their careers in a welcoming environment.
Monthly payment available
as low as 1 per semester
Type:
Private Non-profit
Regional Accreditation:
The Higher Learning Commission
US News Ranking:
#61 in Regional Universities Midwest
🌟 Quick Guide
- FAQs
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🧭 CPT Policy at Benedictine University
Benedictine University adheres to all USCIS and SEVIS regulations in authorizing Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for international students. Eligible students may receive CPT authorization from the first day of their program. CPT authorization must be renewed every year.
CPT is an integral and required component of Benedictine’s MS programs. Students participate in a structured practicum experience that connects classroom learning with real-world professional training. CPT is authorized from Day 1 for the full duration of the 22-month program with no gaps or breaks. Participation in CPT is mandatory for program completion.
To qualify for CPT authorization, students must secure employment directly related to their field of study prior to applying. Students must remain in good academic standing and ensure that the training experience aligns with the required practicum course. CPT must be tied to coursework and serve as an essential part of the academic curriculum. Students must receive approval and an updated Form I-20 with CPT endorsement from their Designated School Official (DSO), and may not begin employment before the CPT start date listed on the I-20.
If you have more questions about CPT at Benedictine University, please contact us immediately!
Benedictine University operates on a three-semester academic calendar for its Day 1 CPT programs. International students are required to enroll in a minimum of two courses (6 credits) per semester, consisting of one online course and one hybrid course. The hybrid course includes required in-person instruction, while the online course provides additional flexibility to balance academic requirements with professional training.
The Master’s programs typically require 33–36 credits and are designed to be completed within 22–24 months. There are no breaks between semesters, ensuring a continuous academic progression for students who rely on CPT authorization year-round.
Onsite Frequency:
F-1 students must attend one required on-campus residency weekend per semester.
This residency weekend provides essential face-to-face engagement with faculty and peers and supports compliance with USCIS requirements for hybrid coursework.
Onsite attendance is mandatory. Failure to attend the required residency weekend may place a student’s F-1 status at risk, including possible termination of SEVIS records.
💳 Tuition & Scholarships at Benedictine University
Master Tuition
International students receive a special tuition rate of $800 per credit when applying through us.
- Total Quarter Estimate: $4,800 (6 credits)
- Total Annual Estimate: $14,400 (3 quarter; 18 credits)
- Total Program Estimate: $28,800 (6 semesters; 36 credits)
Other Fees
- Application fee: We will waive it for you!
- Administrative fee: $250
- Graduation fee: $145
Scholarships
Contact us to learn more about scholarships at Benedictine University!
📅 Important Dates at Benedictine University
Program Start Dates
|
Fall 2 2025 |
Spring A 2026 Spring B 2026 |
Every term is open for enrollment (3 enrollment windows in an academic year).
Application Deadline:
F1 transfer students (F1/OPT/CPT): 4 weeks before the first day of the term.
Others: 3 months before the first day of the term.
(If you miss the deadline, please contact us. As the official recruitment partner of Benedictine University, we can help you accelerate your application.)
Where is Benedictine University located?
Benedictine University’s main campus is in Lisle, Illinois (5700 College Rd., Lisle, IL 60532). The university also offers a campus in Mesa, Arizona (225 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ 85201).
What is the duration and credit load of the programs?
What are the admission requirements for international students?
Typical requirements include:
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Official transcripts from all institutions attended; for non-U.S. degrees a course evaluation from a NACES member may be required.
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Two letters of recommendation (may be waived for students holding a U.S. bachelor’s or master’s degree).
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Resume or CV.
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Proof of English proficiency if previous education was not in English: e.g., TOEFL iBT 79 (min writing 20), IELTS 6.5 (min writing 6), Duolingo 105 (min section 100).
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Proof of financial support (for example bank statements).
What is the onsite residency or campus attendance requirement?
In the hybrid professional program model, BenU requires an onsite component: students must attend an on-campus weekend session (typically one weekend per semester) in addition to online/hybrid coursework.
Can I take a semester break?
No. For these programs, semester breaks are not allowed and enrollment must continue without interruption.
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Reminder
The term “Day 1 CPT universities” generally refers to institutions that allow eligible international students to apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) beginning in their first semester of study, provided that the program includes an integrated practical component. While some schools may support early CPT access, approval is not guaranteed on the first day and depends on the timely and accurate submission of required documentation. CPT authorization typically takes 5 to 15 business days after the complete application is submitted and reviewed.
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