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Graduate School

International Applicants

The University of South Carolina has a rich tradition of welcoming and supporting international applicants. In addition to your graduate school application, you may need to submit documentation related to your international status.  

COVID-19 Accommodations for Admissions

 We are all being impacted by this global pandemic as the spread of COVID-19 requires almost constant readjusting.  Please know that we will continue to support international applicants to secure a fair review of your academic credentials in an effort to ensure that joining the University of South Carolina to extend your graduate studies is the right place for you to be.

 Some testing centers have suspended their services and this may impede your ability to demonstrate English language proficiency, or, to have test scores forwarded with your application.  Please consider taking the Duolingo English Test in lieu of alternatives.  This test is administered completely online.  A minimum score of 115 will be required for your application to be considered further.

 You should also reach out to a contact in your desired graduate program to express your interests and to request an extension to the program application deadline.  Please let us know if you have any other questions or concerns at gradapp@sc.edu.

 

International Application Requirements

Language Requirement

Applicants whose native language is not English must: 

  1. Submit a satisfactory score on an English proficiency test. 

  2. Take a diagnostic test in English when they arrive at the university.

English Proficiency Tests

The TOEFL exam, IELTS International Academic Course Type 2 exam and the PTE Academic are accepted English proficiency tests.

TOEFL 

Minimum Score: 80 for internet-based, 570 for paper-based
(Some programs have higher standards.)

IELTS International Academic Course Type 2

Minimum Score: 6.5
(Some programs have higher standards.)

PTE Academic

Minimum Score: 53
(Some programs have higher standards.)

Financial Resource Requirement

Applicants for F-1 or J-1 student visas must show evidence of financial resources to cover the expenses for one year of study, including room and board. International Student Services must receive this evidence before an I-20 or a DS-2019 document can be issued.

Certification of Financial Support

Submit evidence of financial resources.

Acceptable proof of resources: 

  • Recent Bank Statement

  • Graduate Assistantship

  • Scholarship

  • Fellowship

  • Support from Sponsoring Agencies

Documentation of proof must be written in English.

Application for Immigration

Application for Immigration Document

Applicants for an F-1 or J-1 student visa must apply for immigration. 

Transferring to UofSC

If you are transferring from another United States academic institution in F-1 or J-1 status,  your current or previous institution must release your SEVIS record to the University of South Carolina. 

Immigration Information & Documents

Visit the International Student Services website for more information about visas, immigration and required documents.

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