1. What do I need to do to become a Registered Dietitian?
The four basic requirements to become a registered dietitian are:
1. Completion of the required coursework; typically four years of college or university.
2. Completion of 900 clock hours of supervised professional practice, sometimes known as a dietetic internship.
3. Earning a bachelor's degree.
4. Passing the Registration Examination for Dietitians.
To become an RD through the Loma Linda University program, you need to:
1. Complete high school or the GED.
2. Complete the prerequisites for the Loma Linda University Nutrition and Dietetics Program.
3. Apply to the Nutrition and Dietetics Program either for the BS degree or certificate (for those who have already earned a bachelor’s degree).
4. Complete the program requirements with a passing grade of C or better.
5. Earn a bachelor’s degree
6. Successfully pass the registration exam.
1. What is the difference between a registered dietitian (RD) or dietetic technician, registered (DTR), and a nutritionist? (Information is provided by the American Dietetic Association Career FAQs web page, accessed August 11, 2006.)
The "RD" and "DTR" credentials can only be used by dietetics practitioners who are currently authorized by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education of the American Dietetic Association to use these credentials. These are legally protected titles. Individuals with these credentials have completed specific academic and supervised practice requirements, successfully completed a national registration examination, and maintained requirements for re-certification.
All RDs and DTRs study nutrition and applications to food and health. Some RDs or DTRs call themselves nutritionists. However, the definition and requirements for the term "nutritionist" vary. Some states have licensure laws that define the scope of practice for someone using the designation nutritionist.
2. What is the difference between a Registered Dietitian (RD) and a Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR) and what career opportunities are available for each? (Information is provided by the American Dietetic Association Career FAQs web page, accessed August 11, 2006.)
An RD is a food and nutrition expert who has met the minimum academic and professional requirements to qualify for the credential "RD." To obtain this credential you must complete at least a bachelor's degree at a U.S. regionally accredited college or university, required coursework, and at least 900 hours of supervised practice accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE). In addition, you must pass a national RD examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration.
The majority of RDs work in the treatment and prevention of disease (administering medical nutrition therapy, often part of medical teams), in hospitals, HMOs, private practice or other health-care facilities. In addition, a large number of RDs work in community and public health settings and academia and research. A growing number of RDs work in the food and nutrition industry, in business, journalism, sports nutrition, and corporate wellness programs.
A DTR is a food and nutrition practitioner who has completed at least a two-year associate's degree at a U.S. regionally accredited university or college, required course work and at least 450 hours of supervised practice accredited by CADE. In addition, you must pass a national DTR examination administered by CDR and complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration. The majority of DTRs work with RDs in a variety of employment settings including health care (assisting RDs in providing medical nutrition therapy), in hospitals, HMOs, clinics or other health-care facilities. In addition, a large number of DTRs work in community and public health settings such as school or day care centers, correctional facilities, weight management clinics and WIC programs as nutrition counselors.
3. What factors should I consider when deciding on a school? (Information is provided by the American Dietetic Association Career FAQs web page, accessed August 11, 2006.)
This decision is a very personal one that should be made based on a variety of factors that are important to you, such as:
4. Is there a ranking of dietetics education programs by ADA or the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education? (Information is provided by the American Dietetic Association Career FAQs web page, accessed August 11, 2006.)
The Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education and the American Dietetic Association do not rate or rank programs. All CADE-accredited or approved programs meet the Accreditation Standards, which signifies that the programs provide the knowledge, skills and competencies you need to enter the dietetics profession. These accredited or approved programs meet the requirements for membership in ADA and registration by Commission on Dietetic Registration. The Coordinated Program in Dietetics is currently granted continuing accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education of The American Dietetic Association, 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000, Chicago, IL 60606-6995. 312 899-5400.
5. What is the purpose of the verification statement?
The signed verification statement documents that an individual has completed the requirements of a dietetics education program accredited or approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education (CADE). The verification statement documents completion of the dietetics program and eligibility to write the registration examination from CDR and to become an active ADA member.
• To establish eligibility to write the registration examination for dietitians and dietetic technicians.*
A verification statement is required by the Commission on Dietetic Registration upon completion of the Coordinated Program, Dietetic Internship and Dietetic Technician Program to indicate completion of academic or supervised practice requirements for eligibility to write the registration examination.
*Not applicable if individual completed the name/address verification form for program director to submit via CDR software.
• To establish eligibility for ADA membership.
A verification statement is required when applying for ADA active membership.
6. Who can sign verification statements?
Verification statements can be signed only by current program directors of CADE-accredited or approved dietetics education programs.
7. When are verification statements signed and disseminated?
Coordinated programs - baccalaureate degree level
For students earning their baccalaureate degree, verification statements are issued when the student has completed CADE-accredited Coordinated Program requirements (didactic and supervised practice) and the registrar has cleared the student for graduation, which indicates that all degree requirements also have been completed.
For students who have previously completed a baccalaureate degree, a verification statement can be given upon completion of Coordinated Program requirements (didactic and supervised practice).
8. What is a Coordinated Program in Dietetics?
The Coordinated Program in Dietetics combines the nutrition and dietetics coursework and at least 900 hours of supervised professional practice combined within the professional curriculum. Typically, two years of prerequisite work and two years of professional training at the junior and senior level are required to develop professional skills concurrently with cognitive and technical skills. Graduates are eligible to take the Registration Examination for Dietitians to become credentialed as registered dietitians.
The coordinated program eliminates the need to apply for an internship program following graduation. It enables the dietetics graduate to enter the profession one year earlier than those going to the traditional didactic program in dietetics then applying for the dietetic internship. In many cases the cost of the two-year coordinated program is less than the income earned in the first year of practice as a registered dietitian.
9. How is the Coordinated Program in Dietetics different than a Didactic Program in Dietetics?
In both programs a student graduates with a BS degree. The difference is that in a Didactic Program there are four years of coursework. Then the student needs to apply for a dietetic internship where the student completes at least 900 hours of supervised professional practice. After successful completion of the dietetic internship, the student is eligible to sit for the Registration Examination for Dietitians to become credentialed as a Registered Dietitian.
In a Coordinated Program, a student graduates with a BS degree after four years. In those four years, the student has completed at least 900 hours of supervised professional practice and completes all the coursework as in the didactic program. After successful completion of the program requirements, the student is eligible to sit for the Registration Examination for Dietitians to become credentialed as RDs, registered dietitians.
10. What are the prerequisites for the coordinated program at Loma Linda University?
* These courses are offered at LLU in the post-summer session.
* These courses are offered at LLU in the post-summer session.
11. What degrees do you offer?
The Coordinated Program in Dietetics offers a BS and a certificate program for those who already have a bachelor’s degree.
12. Why are the prerequisites for the certificate different than those for the BS degree?
The certificate program is for those who already have a bachelor’s degree. Certificate students have already completed the general education requirements. BS students have not. The core curriculum for the certificate is the nutrition and dietetics courses that will prepare you for the registration examination.
13. What program should I apply for?
If you already have a bachelor’s degree, apply for the Dietetics Certificate Program. If you do not have a bachelor’s degree or would like another one, apply for the Nutrition and Dietetics BS Program.
14. What term should I apply for?
The program begins with the autumn quarter each year. For those students who have not competed the Human Nutrition, Food Selection and Preparation, and the Art of Food Presentation prerequisites, these courses are offered in an intensive post-summer quarter program that typically begins the third week in August.
Apply for the autumn term if you have completed these courses; otherwise apply for the post summer term.
15. What criteria do I need to meet in order to be considered for the LLU coordinated program?
Admission Criteria: 1) a GPA of 3.0 or above, 2) Completion of all admission requirements, 3) a demonstrated interest in the field of nutrition and dietetics as written in your letter of application, and 4) three recommendation letters.
16. I am not vegetarian. Will your program prepare me to work with people who are not vegetarian?
Undergirding all educational experiences is a vegetarian approach to nutrition. Academic pursuits are designed to provide students with opportunities to learn, apply, and advance the scientific understanding of vegetarian diets. We do understand that not everyone is vegetarian. Our classes are designed to prepare dietitians for a variety of environments. We have in-class discussions regarding meat, poultry, and fish. We also discuss presentation and quality standards for meat, fish, and poultry cooking.
17. What is special about the LLU coordinated program?
Our program is designed to prepare highly competent registered dietitians locally, nationally, and internationally. We integrate classroom curriculum with clinical applications and experiences in local medical facilities, community sites, and quantity food production services. Therefore, students are able to apply what they have learned. Our program prepares students to enter the workforce immediately after graduation.
18. Do you provide any job placement services for graduates?
No, we do not have a formal job placement service. Our graduates do not have a problem finding employment. Many graduates already have a job waiting for them when they graduate based upon experiences in supervised professional practice. Others pursue a master’s degree in nutrition or another field. It is possible that a job opportunity may open at a facility in which the graduate completed his/her supervised professional practice. Job openings are posted and made available to all students.
19. Do you have open houses for your program so I can learn more about your program and meet the faculty?
Each quarter, the department holds an open house where you can meet with faculty and experience what it is like to be a student at Loma Linda University. In addition, you may make a personal appointment to discuss specific questions at any time. We welcome you to call or write and make an appointment. (909) 558-4593; 1-800-422-4558, option 1 then 4, or email nutrition.sahp@llu.edu
20. Do you offer an online program or classes?
We do not offer an online degree at this time.
21. What is your typical class size?
The maximum number of students accepted per year is 26 in the coordinated program and 10 in the dietetic technology program.
22. How is your school different from others?
Loma Linda University is a Christian, Seventh-day Adventist University specializing in the health sciences. Our School of Allied Health Professions is one of the largest Schools of Allied Health in the United States. It is the largest in terms of programs offered but second in terms of numbers of students. Even though we are large, we are small enough to know you well, to know your name, and to take a personal interest in you.
Admission to our program guarantees you a place in every class you need to graduate. Students do not need to scramble to be sure the classes needed next quarter are not already full. Students complete the coordinated program in two years unless you make a personal decision to take the program in three years.
23. What kind of job is available to me after graduating from the nutrition and dietetics program?
Job opportunities in nutrition and dietetics continue to be strong. Entry-level positions include hospital-based positions in medical nutrition therapy, counseling, and food systems management. Community nutrition programs through county health departments and the Women’s, Infant, and Children’s Programs continually hire registered dietitians. Child nutrition programs and school food services based in school districts are active recruiters for registered dietitians as well.
Advanced level positions are typically available after several years of work, although some graduates are fortunate enough to qualify for these positions.
24. How do I apply for your program?
To apply online, go to http://www.llu.edu/apply/.
Complete the application form online and pay the application fee. There is a non-refundable application fee of $60 for first-time applicants. For re-application within the last three years, the fee is $30. (The application and all records submitted in support of the application become the property of the University.) For online applications, the programs you may select are "Nutrition and Dietetics, BS" or "Dietetics, Certificate." If you have completed the post-summer session courses, apply for the autumn quarter. Otherwise, apply for summer.
Submit a personal statement (essay/letter of application) to give additional information which may help the admissions committee. Request that official transcripts of all college coursework be sent to the School.
TRANSCRIPTS ISSUED TO STUDENT WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AS OFFICIAL.
1. Send the three (3) recommendation forms.
2. Apply for financial aid while you are applying to our program.
Upon receipt of the notice of acceptance, return the required deposit and the card provided to confirm acceptance. Provide health records or certificates, as required.
You must complete prerequisite coursework at any accredited college or university before being admitted. A high school diploma or the GED is required for acceptance to the Nutrition and Dietetics BS Program.
Official transcripts must be sent to the Loma Linda University Admissions and Records Office before a letter of acceptance can be sent to you.
25. Where do I send my application materials (including transcripts and letters of recommendations)?
Send all application materials to:
LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY
Office of Admissions & Records
School of Allied Health Professions
Loma Linda, CA 92350
Phone: (909) 558-4599 or (800) 422-4558, Press 1 then 4.
26. How much is the application fee?
There is a nonrefundable application fee of $60 for first-time applicants. For re-application within the last three years, the fee is $30.
27. Whom may I ask to write my letters of recommendation?
You should ask people who are qualified to give pertinent information as to your potential professional qualifications. Please include two from individuals who know you in an academic setting and one from your present or past employer. DO NOT INCLUDE A RELATIVE. Have recommenders fill out forms, place in envelope, seal, and sign on envelope flaps.
28. Where do I send the recommendation letters?
They may return it to you or directly to our office. The address is:
LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY
Office of Admissions
School of Allied Health Professions
Loma Linda, CA 92350
29. What do I write in my personal statement (essay/letter of application)?
In your personal statement, write the basis for your interest in this professions, your purpose, specific reasons you want to attend this University, and other information you think is significant. One criterion for admission is a demonstrated interest in the profession. The depth of your interest may be demonstrated in the personal statement you submit.
30. What is the deadline for submitting my application?
We accept applications until the end of July for our post-summer session and the middle of August for our autumn quarter.
31. When does your program start?
If you have not completed our post-summer session courses, your program would start in the third week of August. If you have completed those courses, your program would start the last week of September.
32. How many times a year do you accept applications?
We accept applications for the post-summer session or autumn quarter.
33. Who do I contact if I have questions?
Department of Nutrition and Dietetics
School of Allied Health Professions
Nichol Hall 1103
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA 92350
Phone: (800) 422-4558, Press 1 then 4 (Ask for Nutrition and Dietetics)
or (909) 558-4593
Fax: (909) 558-4291
Web site: http://www.llu.edu/llu/nutrition/sahp.html
Email: nutrition.sahp@llu.edu
35. When should I apply for financial aid?
You should apply at the same time you are applying for our program. Loma Linda University’s student financial aid office will help you obtain the necessary applications and guide you through the process of applying for aid. Apply for financial aid online at http://www.llu.edu/apply/. For any questions related to financial aid, please contact their office or look at their frequently asked questions online at http://www.llu.edu/ssweb/finaid/faqs.html. Contact information: Office of Financial Aid, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350. Phone: (909) 558-4509. Their web site is http://www.llu.edu/ssweb/finaid/index.html.
36. How do I find housing?
Loma Linda University maintains on-campus residence halls for single men and women. The women's residence hall, Kate Lindsay Hall, can be reached by calling (909) 558-4561. The single men's and graduate women's residence hall, A.G. Daniel’s Residence, can be reached at (909) 558-4562. Residence hall applications may be downloaded from the University's housing web page.
No on-campus married student housing is available. However, some University-managed housing is available nearby for single and married students through the University Foundation rental office at (909) 556-4374. All University housing requires a written application and an advance deposit.
Unless housing has been prearranged, it is recommended that international students who have families come ahead of them in order to arrange for housing, furnishings, and transportation. Housing in the community is fairly plentiful; however, finding a reasonably priced house that meets the needs of a student and his/her family takes time and effort.
All undergraduate students under the age 21 are required to live in one of the residence halls. However, petitions for exceptions to this rule may be submitted to the student affairs office. Residence halls contain basic furnishings; bedding, linens, and cooking utensils are not included.
37. How much does your program cost?
BS program quarter units and tuition*
First year: 59.5, $23,086
Second year: 45.5, $17,654
The certificate program
Units and tuition vary, depending upon units transferred into Loma Linda University. The department can evaluate your transcripts and give you an estimated cost.
*Tuition is subject to change on an annual basis. In addition, there is an enrollment fee of $435 per quarter.
38. What is the enrollment fee at Loma Linda University?
The enrollment fee at Loma Linda University is currently $435 per quarter. It covers student health insurance and activity fees, including use of the Drayson Center (gym).
39. How many transfer units do you accept?
Applicants must file with the Office of Admissions and Records of the School of Allied Health Professions complete records of all studies taken on the high school and college levels. The University reserves the right to require of an applicant satisfactory completion of written or practical examinations in any course for which transfer credit is requested. Remedial and high school level courses are not accepted for transfer.
A maximum of 70 semester units or 105 quarter units of credit is accepted from accredited junior colleges.
Unaccredited schools
Credits from unaccredited schools are not accepted by Loma Linda University.
Professional schools
Credits earned in a professional school are accepted only from a school recognized by its regional or national accrediting association and only for a course that is essentially the equivalent of what is offered at the University or is substantially relevant to the curriculum.
40. How do I know what classes to take at the school I currently attend to meet LLU prerequisites?
Transfer patterns have been prepared for many schools. If your school is not represented on this list, contact the department for specific equivalent courses.
41. What are the pre-entrance health requirements?
Students planning to attend Loma Linda University are required to fulfill immunization and health requirements. These requirements must be turned in to Student Health Services. Contact us for more information. Requirements include the following:
• Tuberculosis screening
• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
• Tetanus
• Hepatitis B series
• Chicken pox screening or vaccination
• Pre-entrance physical examination
• Eye examination (by ophthalmologist or optometrist)
42. What do I need to know about Student Health Services?
Location
Student Health Services
Center for Health Promotion
Evans Hall Room 111
24785 Stewart Street
Loma Linda, California 92350
Clinic hours
Monday - Thursday -- 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.; 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday -- 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Contact information
Phone: (909) 558-8770
Fax: (909) 558-0433
Please call to make appointments. Current Risk Management insurance card may be required. Hours may vary during holidays.
Services (All services are confidential.)
Primary care services
Immunizations
Sports medicine clinic
Women's health services
Health education
Counseling or referral to counseling services
Referral to specialty services--as indicated
Health team includes qualified physicians, nurses, and support staff to assist you with your specific needs.
The professional outpatient services rendered at Student Health Services are covered as a benefit by the student health plan. However, any ancillary services, such as lab work, x-rays, medical supplies, etc., are subject to all student health plan benefits, including deductibles, co-pays, preexisting exclusions, etc. Please refer to the student health plan for further information or call Risk Management at (909) 558-4386. LLU student accident/illness protocol Condition.
Facility Co-pay (for those covered by student health plan).
-Health clearance and immunizations Student health service No charge, cost for immunizations vary
- Minor illness (colds, stomach aches, sore throats) or injuries (strains, sprains)
-including work study related incidents
(NOT related to off-site clinical rotations) Student health service No charge
LLUMC Urgent Care - If student health is closed $40.00
- Injuries during authorized clinical rotation
(NOT needle sticks or exposure)
(NOT work study related incidents) Occupational health * No charge if related to authorized clinical experience
If occupational health is closed - LLUMC ER $50.00 Co-pay is waived if related to authorized clinical experience.
- Serious injuries, needle sticks or any type of life threatening trauma LLUMC ER $50.00 CO-pay is waived for needle sticks for clinical rotations ONLY.
- Emotional/relationship issues/school stress Student Counseling Center and/or
9 free visits before $40.00 CO-pay
Student assistance program
8 free visits
Student Health Service
Evans Hall, Room 111 (#14 on map)
Extension 88770, (909) 558-8770
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday – Thursday
8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Friday
Occupational Health
Professional Plaza
25455 Barton Road, Suite 106-A (#72 on map)
Extension 66222, (909) 558-6222
Monday - Thursday -- 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday -- 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
* Must obtain injury form from dean's office, teacher, or supervisor
Questions? Contact Risk Management at: (909) 558-4386 or Student Health Service at: (909) 558-8770.
Emergency Department
Loma Linda University Medical Center (#62 on map)
Extension 44444 or (909) 558-4444
Open 24 hours a day
Current Risk Management insurance card is required.
Urgent Care
Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus (#63 on map)
(909) 558-6644
Open 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily
Current Risk Management insurance card is required.
Student Assistance Program
11360 Mt. View Avenue, Cape Cod Buildings (#69 on map)
Hartford Building, Suite A
Extension 66050 or (909) 558-6050
Monday - Wednesday -- 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Thursday - 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Student Counseling Center
11374 Mt. View Avenue, Cape Cod Buildings (#69 on map)
Dover Building, Suite A
Extension 66028 or (909) 558-6028
Monday - Thursday -- 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
43. What is unique about the Seventh-day Adventist heritage?
Loma Linda University is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and has a deep commitment to respecting the rich diversity of its student body. It views respect and sensitivity for all people, regardless of their culture and ethnicity, as a part of true Christianity. We recognize that students come from many different faiths. This University has a tradition of religious liberty, and it highly respects students' religious values that differ from ours. We look upon the various perspectives of each spiritually committed student as enriching to our campus and educational environment.
Two distinctive features of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which are part of the Loma Linda experience, become evident to first-time students. The first is the concept of Sabbath rest, which reminds us of God as Creator. Adventists realize this in part by celebrating Saturday as the Sabbath from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. During these hours you will find that University offices, laboratories, libraries, study halls, and recreation facilities are closed to give time for physical and spiritual renewal and worship. A second distinctive feature worth noting is an emphasis on health and wholeness. As a student you will be able to exercise in our recreation and wellness center, a health and fitness complex which received a national award for excellence in utility and design. The cafeterias on campus feature well-prepared vegetarian meals. You should also note that the University holds that a drug, alcohol, and tobacco-free lifestyle is essential for achieving the goal of "wholeness." This means that all students agree to refrain from the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other "recreational" drugs while enrolled at the University.
44. Do I have to take religion classes at Loma Linda University?
Students in the bachelor’s degree program take 8 units of religion. These courses include a historical class "Adventist Heritage of Religion and Health," an ethics class, "Christian Ethics in Health Care," and an elective course, perhaps in the area of relationships such as marriage and family. Certificate students take "Christian Ethics in Health Care" only. Classes in religion are part of the core curriculum in each of the University's schools and programs. All students who choose to attend Loma Linda University make a commitment to conduct their lives in a manner that reflects their sense of responsibility for the honor and integrity of the University and themselves as members of its community.
45. Will I need to attend chapel as a student of Loma Linda University?
Weekly chapels represent a critical dimension of the educational experience at Loma Linda University. By devoting one hour each week to a chapel program, the University is emphasizing the value it places on spiritual development, corporate worship, and community. In addition, the chapel programs provide a variety of opportunities for the entire University community to benefit from teaching that integrates faith and learning and to confront current issues and the implementation of faith in secular life.
46. I am an international student. What special information do I need?
It is the policy of Loma Linda University to require that all applicants with foreign transcripts have an approved foreign transcript evaluation service evaluate their foreign transcripts. Evaluation from any company not on the list is NOT accepted.
All international transcripts, including high school, must be submitted to an approved evaluation service. Results of the evaluation are to be sent to LLU directly from the evaluation center. Official international transcripts must also be sent directly to us from school to school at the time of application.
Credits submitted from a college outside the United States must be evaluated by a foreign transcript service. You must choose a service from this list and have the service evaluate all of your foreign transcripts, including high school, COURSE-BY-COURSE, at your expense, and have the service send the Office of Admissions and Records an original report. Each course granted credit must be accompanied by a letter grade. This must be done before your application can be processed. All official foreign transcripts must be received by Loma Linda University before you will be accepted into any of the allied health programs. Please have this evaluation done immediately so we may finish processing your application.
American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers
One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 520
Washington, DC 20036-1135
Phone: (202) 296-3359
Fax: (202) 822-3940
Web site: http://www.aacrao.org/credential/individual.htm
Email: oies@aacrao.org
Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
PO Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470
Phone: (414) 289-3400
Fax: (414) 289-3411
Web site: http://www.ece.org
Email: eval@ece.org
Proficiency in English
Courses at Loma Linda University are taught in English, and proficiency in this language is a requirement. Lectures are often delivered at a rapid rate, and note taking is expected. Term papers, theses, and exams are expected to be written in clear and correct English. Therefore, it is necessary for the prospective student to possess a high proficiency in the English language. A student whose native language is not English and whose secondary education has been outside of the United States is required to pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - Internet-Based Test (TOEFL –iBT). The passing score is 80 out of 120, with a minimum of 18 out of 30 for each of the four testing components.
Applicants need to meet the admission requirement for English before an I-20 or IAP-66 form (student visa application) for their program of choice can be issued. However, there are no guarantees of being accepted into a program based alone on having English proficiency.
Character references
Admission committees seriously consider character references in making their decisions. The names and addresses of at least three individuals who can provide academic, personal, and/or professional character references must be provided by each applicant.
Once an academic evaluation has been completed, TOEFL scores have been submitted, and character references have been received, the application and supporting documents are given to the admissions committee for official action. Each applicant is notified in writing of the admission committee's decision. The program acceptance letter is a key document needed for obtaining a visa.
Obtaining a visa
To get a visa from a US embassy or consulate for entering the United States, prospective students are required to provide, at a minimum, the following documents: a valid passport permitting a student to leave his/her country of citizenship; a visa application form (either I-20 A-B/ID or IAP-66); an acceptance letter from Loma Linda University; financial documents clearly showing sufficient resources; and proof of English proficiency. Please note that facsimiles of documents are not accepted--original documents are required. In addition, financial documents should be as recent as possible and no more than six months old.
To obtain a visa application from Loma Linda University (either an I-20 AB/ID or IAP-66), the student will need full and regular acceptance into one of the programs available through one of the seven schools of the University. US federal regulations do not recognize provisional acceptances for visa issuance.
Once this letter is made available to the international student services office, a Confidential Declaration and Certification of Finances Form is sent to the student that provides an estimate of finances necessary for the visa, requests for documented proof that these finances are available, any additional information to complete the visa application, and a request for a $4,000 advance international student deposit. During the last quarter of enrollment, this deposit is refunded.
The type of visa application given for entry into the United States is determined by the international student services office or the US Consulate and takes many factors into consideration. The F-1 visa (from the I-20 AB/ID application form) is the most common type of student visa. Another type of visa, though much less common, is the J-1 visa (from the IAP-66 application form), designed for exchange visitor students, visiting professors, or research scholars. Exchange visitors are completely or partially sponsored financially by their own government, the US government, or an international agency or organization (i.e. the World Health Organization).
Additional types of visas which make their holders eligible for at least part-time study include the H-1, TN (Trade NAFTA), B-1( business-related tourist), B-2 "prospective student," and dependents of F, J, and H (i.e. F-2, J-2, and H-4, respectively). However, none of these special-circumstance visas are based on visa application forms issued by Loma Linda University.
The TN visa is reserved for Canadian and Mexican professionals who have job offers from Loma Linda University or other immediate-area employers. This visa allows the professional to be both a part-time employee and a part-time student.
The B-2 "prospective student" visa is available to a student who has been accepted to more than one university and intends to visit each school before choosing one, or when he/she is required to take a pre-admission exam and/or be interviewed.
However, once a school has been chosen by the prospective student or the pre-admission requirements have been met, an I-20 AB/ID visa form will need to be submitted by the student to the Immigration and Naturalization Service for a change of status to F-1 (for which there is a fee).
International student services
The international student services office is within the student affairs office. The services offered include the issuance of visa application forms and assistance in the following areas of international student life: maintenance of visa status, adapting to new customs and cultures, housing, and employment authorization. Besides these formal functions, the office serves as a referral source for many of the informal daily needs and activities of international students' lives. Phone: (909) 558-4955 or extension 44955.
Student clubs and organizations
Student clubs and organizations at Loma Linda University include: the Asian Pacific-Islander Student Association (APSA), Associated Latin American Students (ALAS), Black Health Professional Student Association (BHPSA), Club International, Korean Professional Student Club, Loma Linda University Student Association (LLUSA, the main campus-wide student association), and Students for International Mission Service (SIMS). Other special interest groups and clubs exist on campus and are open to international student membership.
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Last Revised: Sun, Nov 26, 2006