US University Transfer Program – Frequently Asked Questions
📗 General Questions
Q: Are all 5 universities in Chicago?
A: No. Lewis University is near Chicago, Illinois. The University of Detroit Mercy is in Michigan (Detroit). Concordia University Wisconsin is near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Caldwell University is in New Jersey, and the University of Charleston is in West Virginia.
Q: Can I choose other programmes like MBA or Business Analytics?
A: Yes. As of now, students can apply to four degrees: MS in Computer Science, MS in Software Engineering, MBA and MS in Business Analytics.
Q: Can I apply without GRE?
A: Yes. GRE is waived for all Woolf transfer students at all the partner universities.
Q: Do I need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?
A: Most partner universities accept Woolf transcripts directly and don’t require an ECA. However, in some cases, you may be asked to submit an ECA or provide transcripts from your pre-Woolf degree. If needed, Woolf will guide you through the ECA process.
Q: I am over 30 years old, I hope age is not a restriction?
A: No, there is no age restriction for these programs.
Q: Is there any support group where I can ask questions or get help with my Fall 2025 application?
A: Yes! We’ve created a dedicated WhatsApp group to help guide students through the application process, credit transfer, visa steps, and more.
If you're interested in transferring for Fall 2025, you can join the group using the link below:
Our team will be available there to answer questions, share reminders, and support you at every step.
🎓 Academic & Application Questions
Q: How many credits can you transfer from Woolf?
A: Lewis: up to 9 of 33; Detroit Mercy: up to 9 of 30; Concordia: up to 12 of 30.
Q: Will 70% of my Woolf coursework be repeated?
A: A: No, your courses won’t be repeated. The subjects you take on campus will be different from what you’ve already studied, and you’ll also get to choose electives that match your interests, helping you build deeper expertise in your chosen area.
Q: I haven’t completed all the courses eligible for credit transfer. Can I still enroll in them now to reduce my tuition?
A: Yes! You can sign up and complete those courses before your tuition payment deadline to have them considered for credit transfer and reduce your U.S. tuition accordingly.
Q: Can I switch programs after transferring?
A: No, you should select your specialization carefully during the application. Transfers mid-program are not supported.
Q: Will Woolf send my transcript to the U.S. university?
A: Yes, once your application is submitted, Woolf will handle transcript sharing securely.
Q: What should I include in my SOP?
A: Highlight your goals, academic background, career plans, and why you're interested in the transfer program.
Q: Who should write my recommendation letters (LOR)?
A: Professors, mentors, or supervisors who can speak to your academic and technical strengths. (Find Detail guidelines to LOR below)
Q: Will I get my first university choice?
A: Universities review applications in your preference order; Once you secure an admission, your application will not be reviewed by lower preference university
🎓 Campus Life & Duration
Q: What is campus life like in the U.S.?
A: Each campus offers student clubs, sports, events, and supportive academic environments.
Q: Are on-campus jobs available?
A: Yes, F-1 students can work up to 20 hours/week on campus. You may also apply for Teaching Assistant roles.
Q: How many days a week are classes?
A: Typically 2–3 days per week on campus, plus project work. The exact schedule depends on your course selection and university.
Q: How long is the master’s program?
A: With credit transfer, the program typically takes 12–15 months. Most students finish in 2 semesters and a summer term, depending on course load and selection. Without credit transfer, it may take up to 2 years.
Q: How is Woolf involved once I move to the partner university?
A: Woolf Centers will assist with your credit transfer, and serve as a trusted partner when the university isn't able to directly address your concerns.
🏦 Housing & Financials
Q: Can I opt out of university housing?
A: Yes. Housing is optional. You can choose to live off campus and pay only tuition. However, we recommend staying on campus to receive a fully immersive experience.
Q: What is considered valid proof of funds?
A: Bank statements, loan approvals, affidavits of support, scholarship/sponsorship letters. Must cover 1 year tuition + living expenses. (Find Detail guidelines to Proof of funds below)
Q: What are typical living costs in the U.S.?
A: Living costs vary by city and lifestyle. For shared off-campus housing and modest student living, expect $1,000–$1,400/month on average. This includes rent, food, local transport, and basic expenses.
🌐 Visa & CPT/OPT
Q: What happens if my visa is rejected?
A: You may not be able to join the current intake (Aug’25), but you can work with Woolf and our partner universities to reapply for the next session.
Q: What is the full process from application to arrival?
A: 2–3 months: submit application, receive admission, get I-20, apply for visa, pay fees, and fly before August.
Q: Is CPT guaranteed?
A: CPT depends on your GPA, internship availability, and job market. Universities support, but students must secure roles.Note: CPT duration is counted against your total OPT time
Q: When can I start CPT?
A: You may start CPT once eligible and offer a role. Most students begin after 2 semesters.
Q: What happens after my STEM OPT ends?
A: You may transition to an H-1B work visa or other pathways, usually with employer support. Career services will guide you through options.
Q: Have there been any recent changes to OPT or H-1B visa policies under the new U.S. administration?
A: There have been no recent policy changes restricting OPT or H-1B visas under the current U.S. administration. In fact, the U.S. continues to support international STEM graduates through programs like the 3-year STEM OPT extension.
Let us know if you have more questions: support@woolf.university
📌 Appendix: Additional Application Guidance
🖊️ How to Get a Strong Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
You’ll need two recommendation letters to complete your application.
Who should you ask?
- Professors, project mentors, or supervisors familiar with your academic or technical work.
What should the letter include?
- Your relationship (capacity and duration)
- Academic strengths (especially in programming, problem-solving, analytical ability)
- Research, projects, or notable coursework
- Work ethic, maturity, and ability to take on complex tasks
- Communication and teamwork skills, including any leadership roles
- Comparison to peers and overall potential
Submission tips:
- Letters must be on official letterhead, signed, and dated
- Recommenders will receive a system-generated email with a secure upload link
- Start early — it may take time for professors or mentors to submit
💰 What Counts as Proof of Funds?
To receive your I-20 and apply for your U.S. student visa, you’ll need to show funds that cover one academic year of tuition and living expenses.
Acceptable documents include:
- Bank Statements (dated within the last 3–6 months, showing sufficient available balance; in English or with certified translation)
- Bank Letters (on official letterhead, signed and dated, confirming account balance)
- Loan Approval Letters (from a recognized bank; not just a loan application)
- Affidavit of Support (signed letter from a financial sponsor committing to support your education)
- Scholarship Award Letters (mentioning awarded amount and duration)
- Sponsorship Letters (from a company, government, or organization clearly stating financial coverage)
📌 We recommend arranging your documents early — especially if you're applying for a loan or relying on third-party sponsors.