International Pathway to Academic Success (IPAS)
Along with our traditional programs of study, WKU offers an International Pathway to Academic Success (IPAS) for incoming students. The IPAS program is designed to ensure a smooth transition to studying in the US and facilitate international student success in several ways:
- Exclusive courses designed for first-year international students
- Experienced faculty with a commitment to international student learning
- Co-curricular support such as tutoring, workshops, and personalized advising
- Enrichment experiences to foster friendships, a sense of belonging on campus, and a greater understanding of the surrounding community.
The IPAS program is offered at no additional cost, and courses count for full academic credit. Courses typically fulfill Colonnade requirements, so students are making progress toward their degree right away! Enrollment in IPAS can span just one semester or the entire first year on campus, depending on the needs of each student.
IPAS FAQ's
Recent classes have averaged 8-10 students. The low student-to-faculty ratio ensures that students and faculty have more frequent, meaningful interactions that support student growth!
Along with other international student admissions requirements, the following standards are in place for admission to the IPAS program:
Required English Proficiency
IELTS: 5.5 or TOEFL (IBT): 61 or PTEA: 45 or Duolingo: 90
Required GPA
2.25 (4.0 scale)
If you have questions about your eligibility, feel free to email us directly at applyinternational@wku.edu.
Yes! The IPAS does not delay graduation. Students are enrolled full-time and earn academic credit toward their desired degree while fulfilling Colonnade (general education) requirements.
The program lasts for one year, and students may participate for just one semester or the entire year depending on their academic needs and interests. An IPAS advisor can provide a personalized course plan upon enrollment.
In order to successfully complete the IPAS Program, students must:
- Earn a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA over the course of the program
- Earn a minimum 2.0 GPA for each of the two terms in the program
- Earn 24 credit hours
The IPAS program welcomes new cohorts every fall and spring, so you can start at any time!
There are no additional costs outside of regular international student tuition and fees.
At this time, IPAS courses are not available online.
Almost all courses fulfill a Colonnade (general education) requirement and cover topics such as literacy, writing, and public speaking, skills that will be used throughout the remainder of your WKU degree. Other courses cover geography and pop culture, enhancing students' experience of life and culture in the US. of See our course list for additional details.
Pathways students must be enrolled with a full-time course load (12-18 credit hours). The typical first-semester curriculum in the IPAS is 14 credits.
At this time, the IPAS is only available to undergraduate students.
Complete an application for admission here and notify us of your interest in the IPAS at applyinternational@wku.edu. No additional application materials are required!
The safety and health of the WKU community is a top priority during this time. You can read our Healthy on the Hill guidelines for more information.
- Lauren Reyes, Assistant Director of International Student Success: lauren.reyes@wku.edu
- Admissions: applyinternational@wku.edu
- Or start a chat with us!
APPLY TO WKU NOW
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