Frequently Asked Questions#

I get a lot of the same questions from older international students considering these programs. Let me answer the most common ones here.

Am I too old to apply?#

No. There is no maximum age for either program. Yale's Eli Whitney students range from their early twenties to their mid-sixties. If you have been out of high school for at least 5 years (Yale) or 6 years (Brown), you are eligible.

Your age is not a weakness — it is a strength. These programs exist specifically because Yale and Brown believe older students bring valuable perspectives to campus.

I already have a bachelor's degree. Can I still apply?#

No. Both programs are for students who do NOT already hold a bachelor's degree. If you already have a bachelor's degree, look into Master's or PhD programs instead:

• Study for FREE in the USA — Master's Degree
• Study for FREE in the USA — PhD

I have some college credits but never finished my degree. Can I apply?#

Yes. Both programs accept students with some college experience. At Yale, you can transfer up to 18 course credits. At Brown, you can transfer up to 4 semesters of credit. However, Brown requires that you do NOT have "substantially more than 2 years of full-time college experience."

If you have extensive college experience (3+ years), Yale is the safer choice since they do not have this restriction.

Can I apply to both programs at the same time?#

Absolutely. I strongly recommend it. The application deadlines are almost identical (Yale: March 1, Brown: March 2), so you can prepare both applications together. Applying to both maximizes your chances.

Do I need SAT or ACT scores?#

No. Both programs make standardized tests optional. Yale says they are optional for Eli Whitney applicants. Brown says they are "not required nor expected" for RUE applicants.

If you have strong scores and want to submit them, you can. But most non-traditional students do not take these tests, and it does not hurt your application.

Do I need to speak perfect English?#

You need to be proficient in English, but you do not need to be perfect. If English is not your first language and you were not taught primarily in English recently, you will need to submit English proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).

Strong scores help, but admissions committees understand that non-native speakers bring valuable multilingual perspectives.

I have been out of school for 10+ years. Will that count against me?#

No — quite the opposite. The longer you have been away from formal education, the more life experience you bring. These programs were designed for people exactly like you. What matters is what you did during those years and why you want to go back to school now.

If you are concerned about your academic readiness, consider taking a college course or two before applying to show you can handle academic work.

How do I explain a gap in my education?#

You do not need to "explain" it like it is a problem. Your time away from school IS your story. Write about what you did — work, family, military service, community involvement, travel, entrepreneurship — and how those experiences shaped who you are and why you want a degree now.

The personal statement is your chance to turn your non-traditional path into your biggest strength.

Will Yale or Brown give me a full scholarship?#

Yale: Yes. Yale meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for ALL students, including international Eli Whitney students. No loans. If your family cannot pay, Yale covers everything.

Brown: Possibly. Brown aims to meet 100% of need for admitted students, but financial aid for international RUE students is "limited" and admission is need-aware. You may or may not receive full funding.

Can I work while studying?#

Yes, with rules. On an F-1 visa:

• On campus: Up to 20 hours per week during the school year, full-time during breaks
• After graduation: OPT gives you 1 year of work authorization (3 years for STEM degrees)
• Off campus: Not allowed without special authorization

Can I bring my family?#

Yes. Your spouse and children can apply for F-2 dependent visas. If you have dependents, report them on your financial aid applications. Yale's aid package can include support for dependents, and they offer childcare subsidies for children under 6.

Where would I live?#

Yale: Eli Whitney students live off campus in New Haven. Your financial aid includes a housing allowance. New Haven is relatively affordable.

Brown: Housing arrangements vary. Contact the RUE program for current housing options in Providence.

How long will it take to finish my degree?#

Yale: Most students finish in 3-4 years. You have up to 7 years maximum. You can study full-time or part-time (international students must be full-time).

Brown: You get up to 8 semesters (about 4 years). Students typically take 3-4 courses per semester.

Transfer credits can shorten your time if your previous coursework is accepted.

What if I get rejected?#

Apply again. Many successful non-traditional students applied more than once. Use the time between applications to:

• Take college courses to strengthen your academic record
• Gain more meaningful experience
• Write stronger essays
• Get better recommendation letters

You can also explore other options while you wait:

• Full Scholarships for International Transfer Students — 30+ schools that meet 100% of need
• University of the People — accredited, tuition-free online university
• MPOWER Financing — student loans for international students, no cosigner needed

Is it worth it to go back to school at my age?#

I cannot make that decision for you. But I can tell you this: a degree from Yale or Brown will open doors that are currently closed. It will change how the world sees you and what opportunities are available to you.

The students who succeed in these programs say the same thing — they wish they had applied sooner. The best time to start was years ago. The second best time is now.

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Still have questions? Join The Village to connect with other international students and ask questions. Or book a 1-on-1 call with me for personalized advice.