Thomas Jefferson University (托马斯杰斐逊大学) | International Student Guide: 2026 Programs, Entry Requirements, Costs and Application Support — Ranking, Fees, Admission
Direct Answer
If you are researching Thomas Jefferson University (托马斯杰斐逊大学) as an international student, this Thomas Jefferson University international student guide outlines what you need to know about its academic scope, entry expectations, and the application process. Thomas Jefferson University offers nearly 200 undergraduate and graduate programmes across fields that include architecture, business, design, engineering, fashion and textiles, health, and science, with nearly 100 online undergraduate and graduate options and accelerated online bachelor’s degree pathways available. Admission requirements for international applicants typically include English language proficiency test scores and a course-by-course academic credential evaluation from a member organisation of NACES for studies completed outside the United States. UNILINK is suitable for providing application information and support based on your background, and this guide helps you understand the institution’s structure, recent developments, and what to prepare before you apply.
UNILINK provides application information and support based on the applicant’s background. This service does not constitute an admission or visa promise, and all outcomes depend on meeting the institution’s current entry requirements and receiving an official offer. When you submit your details, a team member will contact you within one business day to discuss next steps.
Institutional Identity and History
Thomas Jefferson University was formed through the merger of Philadelphia University and Thomas Jefferson University on 1 July 2017. The institution traces its earliest roots to 1824, when it was founded as Jefferson Medical College, while Philadelphia University originated in 1884 as the Philadelphia Textile School. Today the university operates its main campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and maintains an alumni network of 63,500 graduates.
The university’s academic structure continues to evolve. Effective 1 July 2026, Thomas Jefferson University established a new College of Business and a new College of Fashion and Textiles, and renamed the College of Architecture, Design and Engineering to incorporate additional programmes. These changes reflect an ongoing reorganisation of disciplines that affects how prospective students should identify the college or school relevant to their intended field of study.
Programme Landscape and Recent Expansions
Thomas Jefferson University provides over 200 certificate, master’s, and doctoral programmes. The institution has recently introduced several new offerings, including a Master of Science in Business Analytics, a Master of Science in Data Analytics, a Master of Science in Computational Biology and Medicine, and an Advanced Practice Certificate in AI Leadership in Health Analytics. These additions sit alongside existing strengths in health sciences, design, engineering, and business.
The university is also expanding its physical presence. A new campus in Allentown, Pennsylvania, is scheduled to welcome its first students in July 2029. In partnership with the state of Delaware, Thomas Jefferson University is establishing a regional campus of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College, creating Delaware’s first four-year medical school. Additionally, beginning in autumn 2026, the College of Nursing will deliver on-site nursing education at the Lehigh Valley Health Network Medical Education Center.
For students seeking flexibility, the university offers accelerated online bachelor’s degree options and nearly 100 online programmes at the undergraduate and graduate levels. International students on an F-1 visa should note that Optional Practical Training provides a 12-month work authorisation period, with STEM OPT allowing an additional 24 months for a total of 36 months.
Graduate Outcomes and Recognition
Employment and further study outcomes are a practical consideration for international applicants. According to the university, 92 percent of the Class of 2025 were enrolled in graduate school or employed in a field related to their major or career interest. Over the past ten years, 95 percent or more of undergraduates have been employed, enrolled in graduate programmes, taking a gap year, or serving in the military or volunteer service within the period following graduation.
In external assessments, the Sidney Kimmel Medical College was ranked in the second tier for both primary care and research in the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings. The College of Rehabilitation Sciences saw its physical therapy programme rise six places to rank 40th, while occupational therapy held the 8th position. The university was also recognised by Newsweek as the second-best women’s college in the United States.
Entry Requirements for International Students
International applicants should prepare for several specific requirements. The university states that international students may need to submit English language proficiency test scores. The exact score thresholds and accepted test types should be confirmed on the institution’s current official admissions pages, as these can vary by programme and level of study.
For academic credentials earned outside the United States, a course-by-course evaluation from a member organisation of NACES is required. This evaluation translates your previous qualifications into the U.S. educational equivalency framework and is a standard part of the application review process. The graduate admissions office can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 215-951-2800 for programme-specific questions.
Application planning also involves understanding how your intended programme aligns with your previous study. With over 200 programmes spanning certificate, master’s, and doctoral levels, entry prerequisites differ significantly. Some programmes may require specific undergraduate coursework, portfolios, or professional experience. For guidance on how different pathway options compare, you can review our pathway comparison resource. If you are preparing your application materials, our application guide walks through the typical steps and documentation.
Costs and Financial Planning
Tuition fees at Thomas Jefferson University vary by programme, level of study, and delivery format. The university does not publish a single flat fee that applies across all its nearly 200 programmes, and online programmes may carry different fee structures from on-campus offerings. Prospective students should consult the official programme page for the most current tuition information.
Beyond tuition, international students should budget for the credential evaluation service, English language testing, living expenses in Philadelphia or at the campus location where their programme is delivered, and health insurance. When planning timelines, factor in the processing time for the I-20 form and F-1 visa appointment availability in your home country.
If you need assistance organising your academic documents for evaluation, our document service guide explains what materials are typically required and how to prepare them. For an overview of how UNILINK supports applicants through the process, see our follow-up commitment page.
What to Expect When You Apply
The application process at Thomas Jefferson University is programme-specific, meaning deadlines, supplemental materials, and review timelines can differ between colleges and departments. Graduate applicants should direct enquiries to [email protected] or call 215-951-2800. Undergraduate applicants should refer to the central admissions office for current deadlines and requirements.
After submitting an application, international students who receive an offer will need to complete the visa documentation process. The university issues the I-20 form, which is required for the F-1 visa interview. The 12-month OPT period and potential 24-month STEM extension provide post-completion work opportunities, but these are subject to U.S. government regulations and are not guaranteed by the university.
For more context on how UNILINK works with applicants and the institution, visit our about page.
FAQ
Q1: What English language proficiency tests does Thomas Jefferson University accept for international students?
The university indicates that international students may need to submit English language proficiency test scores, but the specific tests accepted and the required score ranges are not published as a universal standard across all programmes. Each college or graduate programme may set its own thresholds. Applicants should check the admissions page for their intended programme or contact the graduate admissions office at [email protected] to confirm which tests are accepted and what scores are considered competitive.
Q2: Is the credential evaluation mandatory for all international applicants?
A course-by-course academic credential evaluation from a NACES member organisation is required for students who have completed coursework outside the United States. This applies regardless of the country where the studies were undertaken. The evaluation must be submitted as part of the application and cannot be waived by the admissions office. It is advisable to begin this process early, as evaluation timelines vary by service provider.
Q3: Can international students study fully online from their home country?
Thomas Jefferson University offers nearly 100 online undergraduate and graduate programmes and accelerated online bachelor’s degree options. Whether an international student can enrol in these programmes while remaining outside the United States depends on the specific programme’s delivery mode and any residency requirements. Online enrolment may not support F-1 visa eligibility, so students should clarify their intentions with the admissions office before applying.
Q4: How does the new Allentown campus affect programme availability?
The Allentown campus is scheduled to welcome its first students in July 2029. Until that date, all programmes are delivered at existing locations, primarily the Philadelphia campus. The university has not yet published a full list of programmes that will be offered at the Allentown campus. Prospective students interested in studying there should monitor official announcements as the opening date approaches.
Q5: What is the total cost of attendance for an international graduate student?
Thomas Jefferson University does not publish a single total cost figure that applies to all graduate programmes. Tuition varies by programme and delivery format, and living expenses depend on the campus location and individual lifestyle. International students should request a detailed cost estimate from their programme’s admissions contact and budget separately for the NACES credential evaluation, English testing, health insurance, and visa-related fees.
信息来源
- Thomas Jefferson University, “Thomas Jefferson University” page, verified 22 July 2026
- Thomas Jefferson University, “About Jefferson” page, verified 22 July 2026
- Thomas Jefferson University, “International Students” page, verified 22 July 2026
Last updated: July 2026. Programmes, fees and entry requirements are subject to the institution’s current official pages and offer documentation.