Admissions

Graduate Admissions

From exploring our diverse programs to submitting your application, we are here to ensure that your admissions process is straightforward and supportive. Whether you’re drawn to cutting-edge research, innovative programs, or the charm of our historic Charleston campus, your path to success starts here. Explore your options, connect with us, and take the first step toward joining the Cougar graduate family.

To get started, review the catalog for your program.

General admission requirements vary by program. Check with the individual program for required materials for your degree or certificate program.

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Application Deadlines

*Specific application details may vary by program. Please contact your program of interest for more information.

Application Term	Application Open Date	Priority Deadline	Final Day to Submit Application	Final Day to Pay Deposit
Fall Domestic	August 1	February 1	July 1	July 31
Fall International	August 1	December 1	March 1	June 1
Spring Domestic	January 1	October 1	November 30	December 15
Spring International	January 1	September 1	October 15	November 15
Summer Domestic	June 1	December 1	April 1	May 1
Summer International	June 1	December 1	February 1	March 1

International Applicant Information

Welcome international graduate students! Find essential information on required documentation, visa processes, and available financial aid options. We are committed to supporting you throughout your journey ensuring a smooth application process and providing resources to help you succeed at the College of Charleston.

Required Documentation
Passport
- A copy of current, valid passport picture page must be uploaded with application
US Visa
- A copy of current US visa (H or J type) or residency card.
- If you are seeking a student visa (F-1 type), the process will be managed by the Center for International Education. Contact them with questions at international@cofc.edu.
Undergraduate Transcripts
- An official copy of undergraduate transcripts.
- Non-US transcripts must be evaluated by one of the following credentialing services:
  - International Education Evaluations, Inc. - Applicants receive a discount for digital delivery
  - SpanTran
  - World Education Services, Inc.
  - Educational Perspectives
  - Educational Credential Evaluators
Note: Applicants must priovide a course-by-course evaluation

English Language Proficiency Exam
- An official copy of test scores if English is not the native language
- Test options and score minimums include:
  - TOEFL - minimum required score of 80
  - IELTS - minimum required score of 6.5
  - Duolingo English Test - minimum required score of 105
Note: International applicants who earned a degree from a US university do not need to provide an English Language Proficiency test score.

These documents are required by the Graduate School, but each program has additional admission requirements. Many programs also require that applicants submit a statement of goals, resume, or participate in interviews. Please see the individual programs for their specific admissions requirements.
Financial Aid
Sister State Agreements
The College of Charleston has an International Sister-State agreement program in which citizens of the following five locations are eligible for in-state tuition:
- Rheinland Pfalz, Germany
- Thuringen, Germany
- Brandenburg, Germany
- Queensland, Australia
- Taiwan
Students must prove citizenship, and in-state tuition would be applicable through all years of study. For any questions about the Sister-State Agreement Program, please contact international@cofc.edu.

Assistantships
International students are encouraged to apply for the assistantships available in their graduate programs. Students who are awarded an assistantship may be eligible for additional funding. You can find more information about available assistantships here.

Scholarships
The Graduate School also offers scholarship and fellowship opportunities to degree-seeking applicants. Details about scholarships and their criteria can be found here.
Center for International Education

International students admitted to the Graduate School work closely with the Center for International Education. They will help you navigate the visa process, financial documentation requirements, and health insurance options. They will also make sure you feel welcome once you arrive in Charleston and at the College!
Info for International Students

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore our frequently asked questions to get the answers you need!

Why should (or shouldn't) I consider attending graduate school?

Attending graduate school at the College of Charleston should align with your professional goals and personal aspirations. It may be a requirement for your future career, provide opportunities for innovation and service, and allow you to dedicate your research to a cause you care about.
We hope you apply with us! However, graduate school is not for everyone, and continuing simply because you enjoy the college experience or as a way to delay life choices or explore careers would be ill-advised. A master's degree is rigorous, demanding, and requires dedication.
What steps should I take during my undergraduate years to prepare?

Begin assessing your interests, abilities, and career goals early on. Connect with faculty mentors to gain valuable advice and seek out opportunities to attend graduate school events. As you progress through your undergraduate program, gather information on graduate programs and explore accelerated options.
What are the benefits of an accelerated graduate degree option?

Accelerated graduate degree options save you time and money by integrating undergraduate and graduate coursework. This allows you to enter the job market earlier with a higher pay scale by obtaining your master's degree more efficiently.
Explore Accelerated Programs
What factors should I consider when choosing a graduate school?

Consider factors like the reputation of the institution and its program. Think about the faculty's research interests, the quality of research facilities, and the career paths of program graduates. Consider also the availability of financial aid, geographic location, cost of living, and social climate.
How can I make personal connections with faculty and current students?

Research faculty online, attend events, reach out via email, and engage in meaningful conversations to learn from their experiences and demonstrate your passion for the program. Connecting with current students and alumni provides firsthand insight into the program.
What are some ways to fund my graduate degree?

Explore various funding options, including scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, teaching/research positions, grants, research funding, and loans.
When should I start the graduate school application process?

Start early, as meeting deadlines and completing all application requirements takes time.
Begin exploring programs a year before the deadline. Connect with faculty six months prior, and eight weeks before the deadline, start your application process. Aim to complete your application 4-6 weeks before the deadline. Remember completing your application early could have a direct impact on your funding opportunities.