Center for International Education

At Empire State University, we believe education should be accessible to everyone, no matter where you live. That’s why our Center for International Education partners with institutions around the world to bring our flexible, high-quality programs to students outside the United States.

We currently offer programs in:

Most of our international students are working toward undergraduate degrees. No matter where you study, your SUNY Empire degree is the same as the one earned by students in New York.

In Athens, Prague, Thessaloniki, and Tirana, students attend in-person classes and have access to onsite SUNY Empire offices for support. In Lebanon and the Dominican Republic, students take part in a blended model that combines short-term residencies with online learning.

Like all SUNY Empire students, you’ll work closely with a faculty mentor to plan your degree, choose courses, and complete learning contracts. Our international programs are supported by faculty from across SUNY Empire and, when needed, by local academic partners. Whether you’re studying in person or online, experienced professors are here to support you throughout your academic journey.

10 Reasons to Study with SUNY Empire from Abroad

More and more students are choosing SUNY Empire for their international studies.

Here’s why:

  1. The American Degree Advantage
    An American college degree is a powerful symbol of opportunity and a pathway to achieving your version of the American dream.
  2. The Prestige of New York
    When people think of New York, they think of success. SUNY Empire brings that energy, opportunity, and ambition to students around the world.
  3. Global Recognition
    Whether you're applying for jobs or graduate school, an American degree is widely respected and opens doors across the globe.
  4. Dual Degrees with Local Partners
    Through our partnerships, many students earn both a SUNY Empire degree and a local university degree, often in just four years.
  5. A Trusted Global Brand
    The State University of New York (SUNY) system is known worldwide for its quality and prestige. Students value the SUNY name on their résumés and transcripts.
  6. No Need to Relocate
    You can earn your degree from SUNY Empire without having to move to the United States. Our flexible options make it easy to study from wherever you are.
  7. Great Study Locations and Easy Mobility
    With campuses in Central Europe and flexible visa options (especially for EU citizens), it's easy to find a location that works for you. Many students love Prague for its safety, affordability, and vibrant international community.
  8. A Diverse, Global Learning Community
    Our international student body and faculty bring real-world perspectives into every classroom, enriching your experience both academically and culturally.
  9. Flexible, Affordable, and Student-Friendly
    SUNY Empire offers high-quality programs designed to fit your life, without the high cost or complexity of relocating to another country.
  10. Engaging Teaching Style
    Our approach is based on the American liberal arts tradition, where student voice, critical thinking, and active participation are central to the learning process.

If you're looking for a place to study that blends global experience with real flexibility, you're in the right spot.

A lot of our international students choose to study in Prague because it’s welcoming, exciting, and budget-friendly.

Whether you're in Prague or somewhere else in the world, SUNY Empire makes it easy to earn a respected American degree without putting your life on hold.

Transfer Policy

Credits earned at foreign universities other than partner institutions can be counted toward the completion of your degree. Transcripts must be evaluated by one of the following approved evaluation services:

It is possible for students to transfer up to 40 credits for an associate degree and/or up to 93 credits for a bachelor's degree.

Instruction is in English.

Students must read, speak and write in English at the university level to be admitted to the program. Where necessary, students may be required to undergo English proficiency testing.

 

Your Next Step

To learn more, please visit the page for the location you’re interested in.