For international students who are interested in acquiring an education in golf business management, SDGA offers the Associate of Applied Business degree program.  This is an accredited four semester program that extends international students the opportunity to graduate with the emphasis of Golf Professional and/or General Management.  The Business Degree Program is offered at SDGA campuses in California, Florida, Arizona and South Carolina.

At all campuses, weekly golf tournaments and additional golf rounds take place at a variety of courses.  The SDGA training program includes group golf lessons, both at the driving range and at local golf courses, individual video lessons, both at the driving range and at local golf courses, tournament planning, instruction in the rules and etiquette of golf, club fitting, club repair, and methods of teaching.  The training and evaluation of students' golf techniques are made by PGA and LPGA teaching professionals.

Tuition fees are due on a semester basis; however our international students must show proof of finances for a 12 month period when applying for the M-1 visa. Tuition does not include living expenses while attending the program.

Below are the answers to frequently asked questions by our international prospects:

What are the admission requirements for international students?

1. High school transcript, GED certificate, or signed SDGA attestation form, professionally translated into English
2. Official college transcript(s), if applicable professionally translated into English
3. $75 USD non-refundable processing fee (outside North America)  $50 USD non-refundable processing fee (Canadians)
4. Completed SDGA I-20 application (for M-1 Visa)
5. Certification of financial support
6. Proof of 500 TOEFL score

What kind of visa is required for your degree program?
International students who are interested in attending SDGA must have an M-1 Student Visa.  Please refer to our Visa Facts document for more details.

Can I attend your degree program on an F-1 visa?
SDGA only accepts M-1 student visas for their business degree program.

What is an I-20 and how do I get it?
In order for an international student to apply for an M-1 student visa, it is necessary for the school to issue the student a SEVIS generated I-20. This can only be done by the school upon receipt of all required admission documents and the full acceptance of the student.

How much is tuition?
Tuition for the Associate Degree Program for international students is $6,990.00 U.S. per semester. The total estimated cost for the program which includes tuition, lab and activity fees, and textbooks, is $29,102.00 U.S. Tuition and fees are due at the beginning of every semester.  However our international students must show proof of finances for a 12 month period when applying for the M-1 visa. Tuition does not include living expenses while attending the program.

What kind of degree will I earn?
SDGA offers the Associate of Applied Business degree program.

Can I work while I’m attending school in the U.S.?
An M-1 student may not accept employment or engage in business while attending school.

What TOEFL score do I need?
International students attending SDGA are required to obtain a TOEFL score of 500 (paper-based test), 173 (computer-based test) or 61 (Internet-based test).  

Do you offer on-campus housing?
SDGA does not offer any on-campus housing.  In San Diego and Phoenix, the Academy partners with RnR Real Estate to provide reasonably priced, flexible, convenient, housing.

An M-1 visa is good for a year, but your program is 16 months:  how does that work?
Since the M-1 visa is only issued for one year, it is necessary to extend the visa for program completion.  Extension of Stay should be submitted to USCIS not less than 15, and not more than 60 days, before your authorized stay expires.  SDGA will assist you in the Extension of Stay process.

What documents should I retain?
Your most important documents are your passport, stamped I-20, and I-94 card.  Be sure to carry your documents with you at all times.

How long do I have to leave the country after I graduate?
You have 30 days to exit the United States from the end date of your stamped I-20.

Need more information? Please read SDGA's International Handbook, and speak with Admissions for any specific questions that you may have.