SIUE Will Reward Successful International Undergraduate Students with In-State Tuition through the new GEO+ Award
As of April 17, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is offering the Geographic Enhancement Opportunity Plus (GEO+) Award to continuing degree-seeking international undergraduate students who have successfully completed at least 24 credit hours at SIUE while enrolled on an F-1 or J-1 visa. Now, international students, regardless of household income, will pay tuition equal to the approved in-state/domestic tuition rate of full-time undergraduate students after completing at least two full semesters of coursework on campus.
“This award demonstrates our institution's commitment to providing an affordable, quality education to our successful international students. The GEO+ recognizes their contributions to our campus community and our desire to ensure that they graduate with an SIUE degree,” said James Monahan, EdD, Director, Graduate and International Admissions.
Students eligible for the GEO+ Award have completed two semesters with full-time status and received passing grades in all academic coursework, totaling a minimum of 24 credit hours. Classes taken in the Intensive English Program, pre-collegiate programs or classes in which a passing grade is not earned cannot contribute to the required credit hours.
“Student success is an institutional focus for SIUE. By enhancing college affordability with the GEO+ award, the University is helping ensure that the pathways of a high-quality education are open to students across the globe. With this award, persistence toward a degree, and ultimately to a career, is strengthened for our students,” Andy J. Benoit, Jr., EdD, Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management.
The GEO+ Award is designed to reward students who have demonstrated their ability to succeed at SIUE and remain on track for graduation completion. With this award, SIUE remains committed to college affordability and academic excellence.
All international students qualified for the new GEO+ will be notified upon completion of the current semester. The new tuition rate will remain in effect through graduation.
PHOTO: SIUE international students
