As the economic and cultural center of America, attending business school in California puts a wide world of possibility on tap for students.
California’s influence and cultural connection to the world offers clear advantages to business students even before you begin to consider the special ties the state has to international business.
It’s a well-known fact that California’s state GDP is larger than most countries, and international trade and commerce account for nearly a quarter of that. That means a lot of practical logistical connections to other Pacific Rim nations, among the very deep and lucrative connections it has to the entire globe.
Home to 400-plus universities, and some of the most prestigious business schools on the planet, every single year California turns out graduates well-prepared to build on those connections. They enter the world of business commanding the respect that comes with an MBA, backed by the creativity to grow entirely new industries and expand and innovate the ones that have been dominant here for generations.
Many of these graduates are international students, bringing acumen and useful perspectives from many other parts of the world.
For the Purpose of This Guide, International Students are Those Who Need a Student Visa or Exchange Visitor Visa
California’s strengths in international education aren’t restricted to international students. There are many domestic students who benefit from the cross-cultural nature of business here.
But truly international students have some unique requirements that make choosing the right business school harder than just picking a name and sending in an application. The university you choose can make all the difference not just in your education, but whether you will be allowed to stay and study in the United States.
International students: Students enrolled at an institution of higher education in the United States who are not a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident immigrant, or a refugee. ~ Institute for International Education
There are many students studying at California universities who were born in foreign countries but who may not require a student or exchange visitor visa:
- Naturalized American citizens of foreign birth
- Permanent residents
- Canadian citizens in good standing
These types of students don’t have to worry about the extra hoops that non-naturalized, non-resident international students have to jump through to be able to enroll in classes.
What Makes One Business School Better Than Another for International Students?
The list of top business schools in terms of quality and reputation doesn’t change if you’re coming from outside the country. International students have all the same challenges as domestic students when it comes to finding a business school with an MBA program well-aligned with career goals.
But as an international student, the additional factors you have to consider when making your selection will be based on more than just academic excellence and an MBA with the right focus.
So from the perspective of an international student, the best business schools are those with the perfect MBA programs and strong supports in place to streamline a few key process processes:
- For non-immigrant students on F-1 visas, the school must be certified by the ICE Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
- Established standards in place for evaluating transcripts and accepting bachelor’s degrees awarded by a foreign college
- Simple processes for establishing proof of English writing, reading, and speaking fluency
- Financing and financial aid options for non-resident students
- An understanding of how to satisfy visa extension requirements as needed for internship placements, and laws governing work restrictions
Schools that are friendly to international students ensure you don’t have to work harder than other students to get the extra support you need for seamless enrollment and learning.
But once enrollment is behind you and your learning supports are in place, what you’re looking for is a program that largely takes the “international” part of your background out of the equation to give you the same amazing learning experience as your classmates.
The best business schools for international students are the ones that provide you the support you need to forget about the differences and focus on your business education.
You want the same experience, the same excellence in curriculum and instruction, the same networking opportunities as any student… no matter what your background or language skills.
How We Identified California’s Best Business Schools for International Students
We started off with the list of every accredited university in California, public and private, that offers MBA degrees.
And our first test was whether those schools even participate in the SEVIS (Student Exchange and Visitor Information System) by issuing I-20 forms for international students.
Among those that do, we then made sure that the MBA programs were in the right format for international students. In general, student visas require full-time enrollment to maintain eligibility.
This requirement also takes most online programs off the menu. An exception can be made for certain hybrid degrees that conduct their on-campus component as a short-term residency – you can get an F1 visa just for the purposes of attending the residential component, even if it’s only a week.
Then we went looking for the same things you are looking for, and in the same ways.
Clear and Accessible International Admissions Policy
When English isn’t your first language, every single interaction with a school’s website, advisors, or admissions forms present an extra challenge. When you are looking for detailed and technical information about visas, application requirements, internship and employment, it can become overwhelming.
So we identify universities that make international student resources easy to find, and that make those resources easy to read and understand:
- Prominent links or dedicated webpages for international applications
- Clear, step-by-step explanations of visa and other documentation requirements
- Dedicated international advisors and student ambassadors accessible through Zoom or other online connections
- Overseas partner agencies to assist with application and admissions in your own language
High International Student Enrollments
One easy way to tell if a school is a good fit for international students is to look at the demographics of the current cohort. MBA programs that have already successfully attracted and enrolled a high proportion of international students clearly have student admissions and integration processes that work well.
When you join a large group of existing international students, it’s easier to connect with people who have already acclimated and found answers to common questions that all international students have.
Dedicated International Student Support Within the School of Business
Even for domestic students, MBA programs come with unique challenges. They also come with specialized supports to help students meet those challenges. Business schools that deliver international student support over and above the specialized supports available to all business students are what we looked for when putting this list together.
Although most California colleges provide some level of assistance for international students through a central international student services department, what we really like to see are dedicated support systems for international students specially within the business school itself.
International Student Clubs and Social Support Groups
Fitting into a new culture in a new country can be as bewildering and scary as it is exciting and fun. It’s helpful to have college clubs and structured events available to meet and network with locals and other international students.
You will find the schools that made our list host clubs aimed at either specific cultural groups or all foreign students, but also niche clubs tailored to international students studying business. That means you have the chance to socialize and network with people who share your business interests and your experiences as an international student. The networking opportunities that these clubs help you access could serve you well, even long after you graduate.
Tailored Programs and Visa Accommodations
Finally, we looked for schools that understand the concerns that international students have and that find ways to put that information right out front, without making you dig for it.
For example, MBA degrees with an official STEM designation come with special considerations that international students need to be aware of. It’s common for them to require a 24-month visa extension for qualified international students to seek additional internship or other training opportunities in the U.S., often leading to job offers.
What You’ll Find on This List of Top California Business Schools for International Students
We list the name of the college, the business school, and where it’s located within California. We also note whether the school is a public or private university, although this distinction is often not as important to international students since in-state tuition rates don’t apply.
You’ll also get a list of all related business degree programs, at both the graduate and undergraduate level in case you are considering earning both your bachelor’s and graduate degree in California.
Not all MBA and other business programs offered through California universities are open to international students, and some may not be available in all the same formats open to U.S. residents. We eliminate any confusion by only showing the programs open to international students under the F1 student visa program.
Though J1 visas for university sponsored exchange student programs provide a viable path to studying in the United States, we’ve focused on MBAs and other business degrees open to international students under the more flexible and inclusive F1 student visa.
We also include a link back directly to the international admissions page for graduate programs.
Most universities use the same academic standards for both international and U.S. resident students. Where schools list separate or additional standards for international students, we note them in the additional admission criteria list.
You get a set of bullet points that tell you exactly how each school is offering something special for international business students, including things like:
- High numbers of international admissions
- Recently updated and comprehensive international student guides and resources
- Outreach efforts aimed specifically at international students
- Special supports for outside internship opportunities, which require additional visa paperwork for international students
- International scholarship or other financial supports
Our Top Picks for the Most Supportive California Business Schools for International Students
University of California - Davis (Public)
Graduate School of Management
Davis, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
-
Bachelor of Science in Business ⁃
- Accounting
- Finance
- Marketing & Business Analytics
- Management & Strategy
- Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Master of Management (2026) (STEM)
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Official academic documents must be issued in the original language and translated by the issuing institution, or by an ATA Certified Translator
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 105/IELTS: 7.5
- Must meet clearly delineated level of study expectations for international students on a country-by-country basis
International Student Supports:
- The school’s Global Affairs Services for International Students and Scholars serve more than 10,000 students, faculty, and researchers each year and have developed deep expertise in dealing with visa and academic needs
- All STEM-designated programs open up additional post-graduate visa opportunities to international graduates
- International Student and Scholar Handbook is an up-to-date and comprehensive guide to arriving, settling in, and getting around at Davis
- Global Ambassador Mentorship program helps incoming first-year and transfer international students by assigning a cultural mentor to help get settled in
- The iGlobal online system allows you to connect with college resources for international students from anywhere with an internet connection
- International House Davis is a culture center with volunteers who can assist with English, cultural challenges, and companionship for international students
Settling in to complete a business degree at Davis comes with all kinds of supports to keep the challenges of international travel and documentation off your mind so you can focus on your studies. The Services for International Students and Scholars offers amazing resources, right down to cataloging the nearest international grocery stores for students from all over the world. Their Handbook is one of the most comprehensive offered at any California university, with advice on banking, housing, and even tax assistance. You’ll even find detailed advice on very California-specific challenges for visa-holders, such as reconciling state cannabis laws with federal rules. In addition to many country- and culture-specific student organizations, Club International is made up of a group of both American and international students who plan events throughout the year for socializing and cultural development. That all comes in addition to a Top 50 MBA program with intimate class sizes and close proximity to the tech hub of San Francisco.
California State University - Chico (Public)
College of Business
Chico, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Business Information Systems
- Master of Business Administration ⁃
- Project Management
- Business Analytics (STEM)
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Competitive GPA of 2.75 over past 60 credits and 3.0 over past 30 credits
- Minimum TOEFL:550 iBT: 80/IELTS: 6.5/PTE Academic: 59
- Must have completed a 4-year bachelor’s degree equivalent to U.S. standards
- Academic record submissions must be translated by a professional translator
International Student Supports:
- Hosts students from 52 different countries
- Offers specialized virtual international admissions counseling to help students work through the application process
- Student ambassadors serve the international student population to help new arrivals find their feet in Chico and with American culture and lifestyle in general
- A simple international new student checklist ensures you get the most important steps to integrating easily
- Free online ESL tutoring is open to international students, including for oral presentations and written assignments
- Extensive two-day in-person seminar welcomes all international students to Chico and familiarizes you with town and campus services
- Offers CPT (curricular practical training) support for off-campus internships
Business administration is one of the most popular majors at Chico for international students. Major multinational companies like Apple, Google, Chevron, Intel, and Amazon all recruit here, giving you good odds of finding interested recruiters with global opportunities to meet your ambitions. Chico is only a few hours from the VC and tech paradise of Silicon Valley. Yet it offers the quintessential small college-town campus experience, with lower cost-of-living than most California universities. If you’re looking for a school that delivers a challenging education in business but comes with the supports to master those lessons, Chico State should come in near the top of your list.
California State University - East Bay (Public)
College of Business and Economics
Hayward, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Accounting
- Business Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Management
- Human Resources Management & Organizational Behavior
- Information Technology Management
- Marketing
- Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Master of Business Administration
- Analytics for Managers
- Finance
- General Business
- Human Resources Management and Organizational Behavior
- Marketing Management
- Operations & Supply Chain Management
- Strategy and Innovation
- Master of Business Administration - Global Innovators Program
- Master of Business Administration - One Year Accelerated
- Master of Science in Business Analytics
- Master of Science in Marketing Analytics
- Master of Science in Accountancy
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Minimum TOEFL: 550 iBT: 80/IELTS: 6.5
- Transcripts must be prepared in the native language and accompanied by English translation from the university, or an approved translation service
- WES evaluations are accepted for three-year bachelor’s degrees
International Student Supports:
- Admissions guides and materials are available in several different languages
- Virtual pre-departure orientations help you find your feet in America before you even leave your home country
- Offers a range of undergraduate scholarship options through Global Honors and Pioneer scholarship programs that are available to international students
- The Global Academy includes an American Language Program, Intensive English Program, and an International Business Certificate Program
- An intensive Pre-Business Analytics Program is available to prepare you for advanced graduate business programs, particularly if you need to brush up on your English and academic skills before pursuing your MBA
- International student ambassadors are available to answer questions via Zoom and offer a personal touch with on campus experience behind it
- A professional and detailed guidebook gives you an overview of campus, area, and student services to help prepare you for Pioneer Life
Cal State East Bay starts working with international students long before they engage in their MBA studies here, offering an innovative pre-graduate prep program that builds your skills in graduate writing, advanced communication, GMAT and IELTS preparation. Located in the heart of the Bay area, students are immersed in a thriving multicultural region that offers opportunities to both branch out into new cultural experiences and to stay connected with home. The school hosts more than 1,000 international students from over 80 countries at any time. That means active and thriving student associations ranging from the East Bay Punjabi Society to the Ethiopian Eritrean Students Association to connect you with other students from home for socializing and study. You can also participate in the International Fair as part of International Education Week to get a taste of all the various cultures and diversity found at East Bay.
University of San Francisco (Private)
Masagung Graduate School of Management
San Francisco, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Management
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Accounting
- Business Analytics
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Finance
- Hospitality Management
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Master of Science in Financial Analysis
- Master of Science in Marketing Intelligence (STEM)
- Master of Science in Information Systems (STEM)
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 92/IELTS: 6.5/PTE: 62/Duolingo: 120
- Transcripts in the original language with notarized English translation, or a translation by the conferring university
- Three-year bachelor’s degrees accepted
International Student Supports:
- A STEM-designated MBA opens up your post-graduation visa options to search for permanent positions in the United States
- Visa-required health insurance is included in the total cost of attendance, saving you the extra expense of a third-party policy
- Student groups like the International Student Association, Iranian Student Union, African Student Association, and Latinas Unidas deliver connections to fellow international students and familiar cultural touchstones
- Rated #1 for Campus Diversity among national universities by U.S. News & World Report for 2025
- International Student and Scholar Services provides orientations, immigration advising, document support, informational workshops, and advocacy and training as a central resource for students
- CPT (curricular practical training) training placements are available at a range of major San Francisco and Silicon Valley employers
- An international student retreat offers exposure to uniquely Californian experiences
- Offers a dedicated website for Chinese undergraduate admissions
San Francisco is one of the great multicultural cities of the Pacific Rim, and a school that is only a block away from magnificent Golden Gate Park puts you right in the middle of it. With students from 103 different countries here, it’s both a very typical San Francisco experience and a dynamic picture of the world today. The school has been involved with major international events like the 2023 APEC conference, and visits from the presidents of China and Vietnam. The ISSS team goes above and beyond in helping international students feel at home. It provides connections to immigration law assistance for students with visa challenges, coaching through basic tasks like obtaining a California driver’s license, and arrangements for culture-specific career guidance. The team even keeps track of national political impacts on student visa programs, offering up-to-date guidance for current and future students.
DeVry University (Private)
Keller Graduate School of Management
Long Beach/Newark/Ontario/San Diego/San Jose/Sherman Oaks, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor in Business Administration/Bachelor in Business Management
- Accounting
- Finance
- Health Services
- Hospitality Management (BBA only)
- Human Resources
- Project Management
- Sales & Marketing
- Master of Business Administration
- Accounting
- Project Management
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Accepts 3-year bachelor degrees from India with addition of 3 professional skill courses
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 61/IELTS: 6.0/iTEP: 4.0/PTE: 58
- An officially translated copy of your bachelor’s transcript is required
International Student Supports:
- Six start dates per year make it easy to fit attendance into your international travel schedule
- International student scholarship of $5,000 and other financial benefits are available
- A dedicated student support advisor and a career advisor will be assigned to you for assistance both during and after your program
- International student representatives are available to answer questions, including agents in various countries around the world
- Five of the six DeVry locations in California are designated as Internationally-Focused campuses with special advising and support services for foreign students
- Central International Student Orientation and Support Services stand ready to help you acclimate to American academics, or even figure out how to bring family over to visit while you study
There may be no bigger powerhouse in international graduate education in California, or in the United States as a whole, than DeVry’s Keller Graduate School of Management. With thousands of international students matriculating through the university nationwide each year, the school has developed plenty of systems and crystal-clear instructions and procedures to get you through the sticky details of obtaining a visa and relocating. Since there are six campus locations in California alone, you can choose to study close to various cultural epicenters like LA and San Francisco. On top of the online support, student forms and documentation, you can also find experts in international student support on site for face-to-face assistance.
University of California - Riverside (Public)
Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management
Riverside, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science
- Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics
- Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Accounting
- Business Analytics
- Finance
- Information Systems
- Management
- Marketing
- Operations & Supply Chain Management
- Professional Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Master of Finance (STEM)
- Master of Professional Accountancy (STEM)
- Master of Science in Business Analytics (STEM)
- PhD in Business Administration
Additional MBA Admissions Criteria for International Applicants:
- Bachelor degree with overall GPA 3.0 or better (3 year Bachelor degrees considered)
- Minimum TOEFL: 80/IELTS: 7
- Unofficial transcripts may be submitted for application; official documents only required on acceptance
International Student Supports:
- Offers interactive information sessions for prospective admissions candidates from overseas
- Has a dedicated international undergraduate and graduate recruitment and advising team
- Offers a Chinese language admission preparation program
- Has a dedicated international student event calendar
- An international teaching assistance support program helps TAs from overseas master their obligations
Riverside’s holistic admissions process puts international students on the same track as U.S. residents, which provides a well-traveled path to success. Just over half of the current A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management MBA cohort are international admits, and for the PMBA, it’s more than 60 percent. A mandatory international student orientation helps you get settled in, and a wealth of campus and community resources help make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. With some 2,000 international students at Riverside from 70 different countries, chances are you’ll find a community quickly.
Alliant International University (Private)
California School of Management and Leadership
San Diego, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Master of Science in Data Analytics
- Master of Science in Healthcare Analytics
- Master of Science in Information Systems Technology
- Master of Business Administration
- Business and Technology (STEM)
- Information and Technology Management
- Marketing and Digital Trends
- Management, Leadership, and Decision Sciences
- Business and Technology (STEM)
- Doctor of Business Administration
- PhD in Organizational Leadership
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Scanned, color images of academic transcripts are accepted but must be accompanied by a certified English translation
- NACES transcript evaluations are accepted
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 50/IELTS: 5.5/PTE: 45/Cambridge: 165/CEFR: B2/iTEP Academic: 3.5/ Duolingo: 95-100
International Student Supports:
- Offered on campus in San Diego or Los Angeles, both large multicultural cities with strong business environments
- Strong support for MBA internship placement CPT (curricular practical training) authorizations from day one to ensure you get the full benefits of practical business training
- A dedicated international student orientation helps you transition to life in the United States and introduces you to activities and campus life
- International student ambassadors from a variety of cultural backgrounds offer support and guidance through your enrollment and admission
- International Student Services offers priority integration and assists with acclimation to the U.S. education system for both international students and American faculty
As you’d expect from a university that has international right in the title, Alliant International University has very strong supports for students from overseas. Committed to serving the global community, Allianz offers clear and comprehensive guidance on academic qualifications, enrollment processes, and visa applications. Special attention is given to helping international students cultivate supportive relationships with fellow students, as well as with faculty and staff. That commitment to diversity and equity pays off with instructors who have a better understanding of the challenges that international business students encounter, and who have the ability to impart the skills necessary to compete in a global business environment.
Loyola Marymount University (Private)
College of Business Administration
Los Angeles, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Information Systems and Business Analytics
- Management and Leadership
- Marketing
- Master of Business Administration
- Finance
- Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Master of Science in Management
- Master of Science in Accounting (STEM)
- Master of Science in Business Analytics (STEM)
- Master of Science in Entertainment Leadership and Management
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Innovation
- Master of Science in Taxation (STEM)
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- International college transcripts must be evaluated by a U.S. transcript evaluation service such as ECE, IERF, or WES
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 100/IELTS: 7.0/Duolingo: 130
International Student Supports:
- A small 11-to-1 student to faculty ratio makes it easier for international students to get the individual assistance they may need in challenging business courses
- International students may be eligible for merit scholarships to assist with tuition
- Numerous degrees with STEM designations expand your OPT (optional practical training) visa extension opportunities
- The school’s Office for International Students and Scholars offers resources for maintaining visa compliance, creating social connections, and supporting educational success for international students
An engaged and active international student community awaits you at Loyola Marymount University’s College of Business Administration. An active international alumni group can expand your web of connections both during your studies at LMU and long after you graduate, creating opportunities that might never come your way with a business degree earned at home. The school is also an active participant in International Education Week, with events that help build your networks while providing a strong sense of inclusion.
California Institute of Advanced Management (Private)
Alhambra, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Master of Business Administration in Executive Management
- Business Analytics
- Project Management
- Master of Science in Data Analytics (STEM)
- Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 79 PBT: 550/IELTS: 6.5/PTE Academic: 58/Duolingo English Test: 105/TOEIC: 685
- Transcript evaluation by a NACES-approved agency to include a cumulative grade point average calculation
International Student Supports:
- Has a student population that is 95 percent international
- Offers an International Student Handbook covering travel, visa maintenance, enrollment processes, housing, and life in the LA area
- Writing tutors are available to assist international students with tough written assignments in English at no additional cost
- Presentation tutors offer similar coaching for English presentations, assisting in deck preparation and speaking
- Online information sessions for MBA programs offer a preview and chance to evaluate the school from anywhere in the world
- Offers support for CPUT and OPT (optional practical training) off-campus work placements that comply with F-1 visa requirements
California Institute of Advanced Management is the place to be if you are looking for an American university that feels like an overseas university. With a student body that is 95 percent nonresident, most of the people you will be rubbing shoulders with each day will have a lot in common with you. That fact also means that the university is built from the ground up to meet the needs of foreign students. With small class sizes, everything can seem more manageable at CIAM. Yet its LA location and proximity to various CSU schools means you still have the resources and networking opportunities to make the most of your American business education.
University of California - Irvine (Public)
Paul Merage School of Business
Irvine, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Business Information Management
- Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Executive Master of Business Administration
- Master of Finance
- Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Master of Professional Accountancy
- Master of Science in Business Analytics
- Master of Science in Biotech Management
- Doctor of Philosophy in Management (STEM)
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Certified copies of academic records must be submitted in their original language with an authorized English translation
- Offers a country-by-country list of the exact records requirements for admission
- Some 3 year bachelor’s degrees accepted
- Minimum TOEFL: 80/IELTS: 7
International Student Supports:
- The Merage Global Initiative conducts outreach to international alums to build connections within the international student community and foster professional growth even after graduation
- International Coffee Hour, Cultural Connections, Diversity Dialogues and other events keep the school’s 8,200 international students from 106 countries connected
- The UCI International Center provides a single resource connection for expert immigration services, advising, and to serve as international student liaison
- Brush up on your English skills through the school-sponsored English Conversation Program
- I-STEPS is a 10-week course that goes far beyond the usual international student orientation in offering in-depth acculturation and practices for academic success
Paul Merage School of Business is a champion of international students, using the Global Initiative to highlight their high-quality education within the California business community. More specific efforts, like the Asian/Pacific Islander Initiative, focus on fostering awareness within specific groups. With excellent online resources and explanations of complicated visa and immigration topics, the International Center here smooths the way for students from anywhere in the world. The IC also has a wealth of programs to both assist international students with the challenges of American academic standards and to strengthen their connections to one another and the broader Orange County community.
University of Southern California (Private)
Marshall School of Business
Los Angeles, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (STEM)
- Bachelor of Science in Business of Cinematic Arts (STEM)
- Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence for Business (STEM)
- Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Executive Master of Business Administration
- International Education and Research Master of Business Administration (IBEAR) (STEM)
- Master of Science in Business Analytics (STEM)
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- Master of Science in Finance (STEM)
- Master of Science in Global Supply Chain Management
- Master of Science in Marketing (STEM)
- Analytics
- Human Behavior
- Master of Science in Social Entrepreneurship
- Master of Business for Veterans
- Master of Management Studies
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Transcripts must meet published country-specific requirements, or be submitted as dual-language transcripts from the originating school
- Three-year bachelor’s degrees accepted
- Minimum TOEFL: 90/IELTS: 6.5/PTE Academic: 61
International Student Supports:
- One of only three private research universities in the Western U.S. to hold membership in the Association of American Universities
- Located in the heart of multicultural Los Angeles, with familiar cultural touchstones around the city and global connections
- Around 30 percent of Marshall’s student population are international students from 113 different countries
- Wide-reaching international exchange student program accommodates J-1 students from partner schools worldwide
- Accelerated IBEAR one-year MBA program is STEM-certified
- Summer Intensive English Program may allow conditional enrollment from students with English test scores below the standard levels
- Merit scholarship available for highly-qualified international students
Marshall is a globally recognized T20 program that has a global reach to match. The school has a stack of international programs, including overseas internship opportunities in Europe and Asia. But the school is just as welcoming for overseas students heading to LA. That extends to financing, with a number of scholarships such as the Hanjin/Korean Air Scholarship, the Honjo Foundation Jack G. Lewis Scholarship, and the TAMBA and SAMBA Scholarships specifically earmarked for international or mixed heritage students. The school’s Office of International Services offers drop-in advising in-person or via Zoom. A regular international newsletter keeps you up-to-date with the latest in visa considerations or other events. It’s easy to see why USC ranks in the top 5 U.S. colleges for international students.
California Miramar University (Private)
School of Business
San Diego, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Associate of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Master of Business Administration
- Business Administration
- Finance
- Health Care Management
- Artificial Intelligence
- Strategic Leadership and Management in Global Business
- Master of Business Administration in Data Analytics (STEM)
- Doctor of Business Administration
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Bachelor degree with overall GPA 2.0 or better (3 year Bachelor degrees accepted)
- Official transcripts evaluated by a member of NACES
- Minimum TOEFL: 71/IELTS: 6.5/PTE Academic: 50/Duolingo English Test: 100
International Student Supports:
- Full range of business degrees available, from associate to doctorate-level
- Each international applicant is assigned a CMU International Admissions Representative to assist them through the process
- CMU has a clearly outlined application and acceptance process and has a comprehensive pre-arrival information packet for international students answering common questions
- Allows session start deferrals in case of shifting circumstances for international students
California Miramar University has plenty of experience in rolling out the red carpet for international students in their business administration programs. With degrees available at every level of study, Miramar is a natural choice for students who want to avoid the hoops of adjusting to a new admissions department and new support systems for each degree. International students pay the same tuition rates as U.S. residents. Although you’ll be spending most of your time studying, San Diego is a beach front paradise, and the mild weather here can be welcome for students from either warmer or cooler climates!
Biola University (Private)
Crowell School of Business
La Mirada, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Management
- Marketing
- Marketing Management
- Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
- Finance
- Financial Planning
- Entrepreneurship
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Master of Business Administration
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 100/IELTS: 7.5/Duolingo: 125
- Applicants with lower English scores may qualify to enroll in Biola’s English Language Scholars program to take courses concurrently with their degree program
- As a Christian institution, Biola seeks applicants with a demonstrated commitment to historic Christian faith
International Student Supports:
- Dedicated international admissions representatives offer a point of contact that can deliver expert advice in the unique challenges of applying as an international student
- Biola’s International Services team assists students with connections to the global community as well as details of visa, travel, or immigration questions
- A pre-collegiate online Global Youth Scholars program allows you to get started with Biola early on, granting transferable credits to international students even before applying
- Ranked as a Top University for International Students by U.S. News & World Report
- Offers scholarships and grants to international students as well as assistance in locating private student loan lenders that serve international students
- The Global Student Engagement office helps provide transition workshops and orientations and promotes cultural awareness events to better integrate Biola students into the community
Biola University understands that making the decision to pursue your business degree in a new country is a big deal that deserves full support. Biola makes the application process easy for students from anywhere in the world, with step-by-step explanations and easy-to-follow instructions. After enrollment, ongoing transition assistance, cultural connections, and other help flows constantly to international students through the dedicated Global Student Engagement offices located in the Student Union Building. Biola is a clear choice for students from overseas who have a strong commitment to the Christian faith and a burning desire for quality business education in the heart of multicultural Los Angeles.
University of California - Berkeley (Public)
Walter A. Haas School of Business
Berkeley, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business
- Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Energy & Clean Technology
- Entrepreneurship
- Equity Fluent Leadership
- Finance
- Global Management
- Health Management
- Marketing
- Real Estate
- Social Sector Leadership
- Sustainable & Impact Finance
- Strategy & Consulting
- Technology
- Executive Master of Business Administration (STEM)
- Master of Financial Engineering
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree or recognized equivalent from an accredited institution
- Official records from each post-secondary academic institution in the original language, with translations prepared by the issuing school
- Minimum TOEFL: 230/TOEFL iBT: 90/IELTS: 7
International Student Supports:
- International loan options are available for MBA students
- Student groups like the Europe Business Club, Haas Africa Business Club, and Haas Asia Business Club can put you together with fellow students interested in your part of the world
- Self-service, in-person, or virtual advising options from BIO let you access support wherever and whenever you need it
- A comprehensive arrival guide issued to each new student covers school traditions, financial arrangements, shopping, local culture, and more
- Weekly “We Are Cal” newsletter focuses on international students and their experience and journey to keep everyone on campus tuned in
- Innovative Haas Global Access Program can provide a preview of MBA studies through a faculty-led immersive educational experience at the school
Berkeley’s Haas School of Business set a new school record for international enrollments for 2025, which tells you the university is doing something right. The melting pot of the Bay Area is a welcoming place for international students, with the sights and sounds of immigrant communities from around the world. That’s one appealing advantage to Haas even before you get to the fact that’s it’s routinely ranked in the Top 10 of business schools globally. Haas culture is defined by four leadership principles that create an open, diverse, and welcoming environment for business students. The Berkeley International Office (BIO) is there to assist all international students with financial aid, immigration issues, local integration, personal and cultural matters, tax considerations, and more.
California State University - Sacramento (Public)
College of Business
Sacramento, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Accountancy
- Business Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- General Management
- Management of Human Resources and Organizational Behavior
- International Business
- Management Information Systems
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
- Master of Business Administration
- Finance
- Business Analytics in Healthcare
- Entrepreneurship and Global Business
- Executive Master of Business Administration
- International Master of Business Administration
- Master of Science in Accountancy
- Master of Science in Finance
- Master of Science in Business Analytics
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Must possess the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor degree; 3-year foreign bachelor’s require special 3rd party evaluation before acceptance
- WES evaluations not required but are accepted
- Minimum TOEFL PBT: 550 iBT: 80/IELTS: 6.5/PTE Academic: 65
International Student Supports:
- The College of Business recently extended the one-year accelerated International MBA to Filipino students with reduced tuition rates
- Sacramento State’s iMBA is affiliated with nearly 60 recognized universities in 18 different countries
- International application pages offer detailed information on language tests, documents, and graduate status on a country-by-country basis
- The International Programs & Global Engagement Lounge provides a place to meet other international students near the ISSS team offices
- An International Student Fee Waiver program offers high achieving students a break on some student fees
Only around 14 percent of the typical MBA class at Sacramento State are international students, which suggests that this is a hidden gem that many foreign students have yet to find. Hosting students from more than 120 countries worldwide means that the college has plenty of systems and supports for foreign admits. With no GRE/GMAT requirement and a minimum 2.5 GPA, the basic entrance requirements may be easier to meet than other California MBA programs. But the rigorous, AACSB-accredited program ensures a top-rate American education. The school’s International Student & Scholar Services team offers advisors available via Zoom, email, phone, or in-person to assist you through orientation and in getting settled into your classes.
University of the West (Private)
Rosemead, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Accounting
- Computer Information Systems
- International Business
- Marketing
- Master of Business Administration
- Computer Information Systems
- Data Analytics
- Finance
- International Business
- Nonprofit Organization Management
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 69-78/IELTS: 5.5
- Minimum English scores may result in conditional admission, with a UWest English Placement Test required prior to start of class
- Current resume or CV required
International Student Supports:
- UWest offers merit scholarship to selected international students with strong academic and personal achievements
- The International Student Services Office helps with I-20, F1, travel, and practical training requirements throughout your application process and attendance
- An emphasis on global cultural differences is a key part of the curriculum in the UWest MBA program, putting international student considerations front and center from day one
International students will appreciate an MBA program that comes with a global perspective, and that’s exactly what you find at UWest. With a curriculum that emphasizes understanding and addressing cultural differences in management and problem-solving, it’s a valuable approach for foreign students seeking positions in American companies, or who plan to head home with their MBA and engage in any sort of international business. Naturally, the international business concentration is a good fit for this, but the global perspective comes with all courses in every concentration and is backed up with hands-on experience to drive lessons home.
California State University - San Bernardino (Public)
Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration
San Bernardino, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Administration
- Accounting
- Business Analytics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Financial Planning
- General Business
- Hospitality Management
- Human Resource Management
- Information Security
- Information Systems and Technology
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Public Administration
- Real Estate
- Sports and Entertainment Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
- Master of Business Administration
- Accounting and Internal Auditing
- Cyber Security
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Global Supply Chain Management
- Hospitality Management
- Human Resources
- Management
- Marketing
- Interdisciplinary
- Executive Master of Business Administration
- Master of Science in Accountancy
- Master of Public Administration
-
Master of Science in Information Systems Technology ⁃
- Cyber Security
- Business Intelligence and Analytics
- Master of Science in Finance
- Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Original academic records or signed photocopies, with an official translation
- Statement of financial responsibility and evidence of medical/hospital insurance
- Minimum TOEFL CBT: 213/TOEFL iBT: 79-80/IELTS: 6.5/Duolingo English Test: 110. Alternatively, may complete level 6 of CSUSB Intensive English Program
- Conditional admission allowed for students who meet academic requirements but haven’t yet met English proficiency standards
International Student Supports:
- Unique Academic Pathway Program offers an admissions opportunity to international students who do not have a high enough high school GPA to be admitted under normal standards
- Partnership programs with overseas schools offer paths to undergraduate business degrees by completing half the program at home and half at CSUSB with full credit transfer
- iCoyote 101 International Student Orientation is designed specifically to assist international students in making connections and integrating into American academic life
- Participates in the American Council on Education’s Internationalization Laboratory, receiving tailored guidance on meeting goals for serving foreign students
CSUSB’s College of Extended and Global Education – International Education department is there to support students from day-one with everything from visa applications, to accommodations, to adjusting to the thriving campus environment and surrounding community. Working with International Ambassadors, students get a personalized introduction to academic and administrative requirements, and all the benefits available to them. It’s all part of a forward-thinking initiative designed to promote global perspectives that will pay dividends for MBA students for years to come.
Pepperdine University (Private)
Graziadio Business School
Malibu, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Science in Global Business
- Executive Master of Business Administration
- Presidents & Key Executives Master of Business Administration
- Doctor of Business Administration
- Master of Science in Business Analytics (STEM)
- Master of Science in Real Estate
- Master of Science in Applied Finance (STEM)
- Master of Science in Business
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Translated and evaluated transcripts accepted from WES, IERF, ECE, SpanTrain, or NACES-approved services
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 90/IELTS and PTE Accepted but required scores not noted
International Student Supports:
- Pepperdine has a robust international student community with more than 70 countries represented
- The Office of International Student Services assists new students with meeting time-sensitive steps in the visa and admissions process
- An International Student Advisory Council keeps the university informed and aware of current issues for international students and assists with student transitions and support
- International student ambassadors volunteer their time and culture-specific knowledge to assist new students find homes in LA
Right at home in Los Angeles among international communities with hundreds of distinct cultures, Pepperdine’s goal is to expand its reach as a premier global Christian university. This means recruiting international students and fostering a global student community. A detailed arrival guide for international students lays out everything from how to clear customs, to using the Pepperdine smartphone app, and clear cost-of-attendance information specific to the MBA program helps students plan and prepare for life in L.A.
California State University - Long Beach (Public)
College of Business
Long Beach, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Accountancy
- Finance
- Human Resource Management
- Management
- Information Systems
- International Business
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Science in Accountancy
- Master of Science in Financial Analytics (STEM)
- Master of Science in Information Systems (STEM)
- Master of Science in Marketing Analytics (STEM)
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or above
- Minimum TOEFL: 550 iBT: 80/IELTS: 6.5/PTE Academic: 58/Duolingo English Test: 115/Eiken: 1/Cambridge English Assessment: 169
- Completion of Level 6 at the American Language Institute at CSU Long Beach also fulfills language requirements
- Must submit original and certified English copies of transcripts
- 3-year bachelor’s degrees may be accepted with
International Student Supports:
- The school’s Center for International Education offers help with enrollment, and support for international students throughout their tenure
- Online advising appointments are available for international students with admissions questions
- International students attend a pre-departure Zoom chat in addition to on-campus orientation to prepare for arrival and integration
- Student organizations like the International Student Association put you in touch with fellow students from overseas for assistance and camaraderie
- Located in Los Angeles, with a wealth of international food options, and communities to maintain cultural connections to home
Cal State Long Beach offers a worldclass business education in a truly international city. On top of a separate orientation specifically for international graduate students, the school delivers an entire week of orientation activities including workshops on writing and plagiarism, CPT (curricular practical training) requirements, academic and cultural issues, on campus job options, and library resources. The school also participates in International Education Week, celebrating international students and highlighting opportunities for study in the United States.
Chapman University (Private)
Argyros College of Business & Economics
Orange, CA
F1 Visa Eligible Business Degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Business Economics
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- International Business
- Management
- Marketing
- Real Estate
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics
- Master of Business Administration
- Accounting
- Business Analytics
- Entertainment and Media Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance
- Global Business
- Marketing
- Strategic Management
- Executive Master of Business Administration
- Master of Science in Accounting (STEM)
- Master of Science in Behavioral and Computational Economics
- Master of Science in Real Estate
MBA Admissions Criteria:
- Official transcripts must be submitted in both the original language and an official word-for-word English translation
- Specific transcript submission instructions are provided for China, the UK, and India
- Minimum TOEFL iBT: 94/IELTS: 7/PTE Academic: 76/Duolingo English Test: 130/Cambridge C1 Advanced: Level C1
International Student Supports:
- The school partners with EducationUSA, which has local advising centers in 170 countries that allow you to work on your application with a local resource
- Around five percent of the Chapman student body are international students, with more than 60 countries represented
- Virtual international student events allow you to connect with college representatives and current students for a preview of campus before you ever apply
- Career services and a global alumni network can help you find your footing in business either in the United States or in your home country
- A comprehensive pre-arrival checklist ensures that all your vital preparations are completed before you ever set foot in the U.S.
- Automatic student health insurance fulfills visa requirements without having to apply elsewhere for coverage
- The school’s Cross-Cultural Center offers a hub for student groups and for international students to make connections and socialize
- The school is a noted center for entertainment and media business training, which can help international students break into the lucrative global entertainment industry
Chapman’s International Student Services office is serious about supporting you – from the day you begin exploring the possibility of attending, all the way through graduation and job-hunting. International and cultural student groups like the Armenian Student Association, the Iranian Student Cultural Organization, and Arab Student Association help you connect with fellow international scholars. The Argyros College adds another level of support for business students, with a Global Business specialization that emphasizes building cross-cultural business competencies. Around 10 percent of MBA students are international, and with small class sizes and individual attention throughout the program, you’ll make close connections quickly and get the academic support you need.