Summary
Advice for prospective graduate students wondering if they should apply for admission with recent changes and uncertainty surrounding federal immigration rules, regulations, travel bans, visa interview cancellations, etc.
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Important Information for International Graduate Applicants
We understand that federal updates to student visa eligibility and interview appointment availability change frequently, creating uncertainty for students planning to pursue graduate studies in the United States. While we cannot make the decision for you about whether to apply, we hope the following information will help guide your next steps:
1. Apply Early
- We encourage you to apply for admission as the first step toward achieving your educational and professional goals.
- Submit all required materials promptly, including:
- Official transcripts
- Required test scores (e.g., GRE, TOEFL/IELTS)
- Any additional documents requested by your intended program
2. Prepare for I-20 Issuance
- As early as possible—ideally when you apply—submit:
- A copy of your passport
- Proof of sufficient financial resources
- The Graduate Financial Form, which outlines the financial requirements for I-20 eligibility
3. Admission Deferral Policy
- If admitted, you may defer your admission for up to one calendar year from your original start term.
- Example: If you are admitted for Fall 2025, you may defer to Spring 2026, Summer 2026, or Fall 2026, depending on your program’s start terms.
- Note: Some graduate programs only admit students in the fall. If this applies to your program, we will update your admission accordingly.
- If you are unable to secure a visa by the end of your one-year deferral period, you will need to reapply for admission to your desired program.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need assistance. We’re here to support you throughout the process.
Questions? Contact Graduate Admissions.