The 3+1 WSB Merito University & Franklin University program
By participating in the 3+1 WSB Merito University & Franklin University program, you will earn an American bachelor’s degree, a powerful credential that is respected by employers worldwide. You will also gain access to Optional Practical Training (OPT), a program that allows international students to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months after graduation. This is an incredible opportunity to gain practical experience in your field of study, expanding your global career prospects.
Key benefits:
- Earn two bachelor's degrees – a European degree and an American university degree.
- Test yourself and gain experience in culturally diverse environments in Poland and the United States.
- Save money by studying at WSB Merito University and living in Poland for three years. You will save significant dollars vs. spending four full years in the United States, if your dream is an American university degree.
- Receive support from Franklin University and the necessary documentation to navigate the complex visa process.
- Qualify to apply for up to three years to work in the U.S. in your profession upon graduation with a STEM degree.
- Earn a Bachelor of Science-Information Systems or a Bachelor of Science-Computer Science at Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio.
Who is this program for?
The 3+1 WSB Merito University & Franklin University program is designed for students and graduates from WSB Merito University, from the English language programs in Management or Computer Science. To be eligible for admission to Franklin University's programs, you must submit proof of sufficient English proficiency. It’s ideal for those who want to fast-track their way to earning an American degree without the full cost and time commitment of studying all four years in the United States.
You can demonstrate English proficiency in one of two ways:
- Franklin University accepts official English proficiency scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Cambridge English Language Assessment (Cambridge), or Duolingo English Test. Scores must be less than two years old.
- Students may also demonstrate English language proficiency through the ACCUPLACER ESL® examinations administered by Franklin University.
Why the USA? Why Columbus, Ohio?
Studying in the United States opens doors to global opportunities, especially in Ohio—a state known for its robust economy and welcoming communities. Columbus, the state capital, offers the perfect balance of affordability, opportunities, and cultural vibrancy. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., it’s a hub for industries such as tech, healthcare, and finance, which provide fertile ground for launching your career.
Want to learn more about Columbus? Visit Experience Columbus for a glimpse into what life could be like for you. Plus, the Ohio job market is thriving—explore opportunities at Ohio Means Jobs.
Why Franklin University?
Franklin University’s 120-year reputation for practical, career-oriented education ensures the degree you'll earn is aligned with employer expectations. The University is also recognized for its flexibility, allowing you to complete your degree efficiently, through a variety of course modalities that meet your needs and F-1 visa requirements.
As a Franklin student, you will be exposed to diverse perspectives, cultures, and languages, which can enhance your critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills. With the help of your professors, you will be able to connect your coursework to real-world scenarios. Through your instructors and peers, who are working professionals at various career stages, you'll gain insight into Fortune 100 companies and regional powerhouses.
Franklin’s Office of International Students and Programs (OISP) is well-versed in helping international students navigate the application and visa processes.
What can you study at Franklin University?
Students in the Management and Finance & Accounting degree programs at WSB Merito, can choose Franklin University’s B.S-Information Systems (BSIS), while students in WSB-Merito's Computer Science can transition into Franklin's B.S-Computer Science (BSCS). Both programs are in fields of study included on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM-Designated Degree Program List.
The one year of study can be completed for those English language students who complete either Management or Finance & Accounting and enroll in the BSIS program, or the Computer Science students who enroll in the BSCS program. Any other student may need to complete additional courses to meet graduation requirements, which may extend your studies beyond one year.
How to apply?
The process is straightforward but requires preparation:
1) Admission Process: Apply through WSB Merito University, and once accepted, Franklin University will guide you through their simple admission process.
2) Visa Process: You will need an F-1 student visa to travel to the U.S. to study. Entering the U.S. on a F-1 student visa allows you to live in the U.S. while completing your degree and provides you with the option to apply to work in the U.S. in your profession for a limited time after graduation. You will need a Form I-20 from Franklin to apply for an F-1 student visa. Franklin will send you a Form I-20 after you have been admitted. You will need to provide proof of funding to cover your tuition and living costs, and pay Franklin’s enrollment deposit. After you receive the Form I-20, you can apply for an F-1 student visa. You will need:
- Acceptance letter from Franklin
- Form I-20 from Franklin
- Passport
- Proof of financial responsibility
- SEVIS fee payment receipt. SEVIS fee is non-refundable
- Form DS-160 needs to be filled
- Visa fee payment
- Interview at the local embassy
- Find out more about applying for an F-1 Visa.
3) Formal Requirements: Be sure to have all necessary documents ready, including transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and evidence of financial stability to cover your tuition and living costs while studying abroad.
How much does it cost?
For international students, the cost of studying at Franklin University for fall and spring semesters is approximately $526 per credit hour, translating to around $8,416 per semester. Summer semester has 4 credit hours to 16 credit hours, minimum tuition of $2,104.
Any coursework a student needs to complete to meet Franklin University’s graduation requirements may be charged at the standard Franklin University tuition per credit hour rate.
While this is a significant investment, it's still more affordable compared to other American universities. Additionally, the cost of living in Columbus is notably lower than in other major U.S. cities, making it an attractive option for international students. Learn more about living costs and housing in Columbus at Experience Columbus.
Save the dates
- All Admission materials due to Franklin University - December 9, 2024
- Tuition Deposit Due Date - January 6, 2025
- Program Start Date (listed on I-20) - February 12, 2025
- Orientation Date - February 12, 2025
- First day of class - February 17, 2025
Have Questions?
If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us at 3plus1franklin@merito.pl.
Our team is ready to guide you through the entire process, from application to arrival in the United States.
Applying for an F-1 Visa
Travelers entering the U.S. on visitor visas or the Visa Waiver Program are not eligible to study, so you must apply for an F-1 student visa. The visa application process may vary depending on your citizenship and the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply.
Pay the SEVIS Fee
F-1 visa applicants must pay a one-time fee to supplement the administration and maintenance costs of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), according to a U.S.Department of Homeland Security rule. If your F-1 visa application is denied, the SEVIS fee will not be refunded. However, if you reapply for a new F-1 visa within 12 months of the fee payment, you will not have to pay the fee again.
Retain a copy of your SEVIS fee receipt (Form I-901), bring it to your visa interview, and it may be required later.
Apply for a Visa from Your Local Embassy
Review the non-immigrant visa information from the U.S. Department of State website and electronically submit your DS-160 non-immigrant visa application and pay the visa application processing fee. Contact your local embassy or consulate to schedule a visa interview appointment.