International Students

The Graduate School is home to international students from around the world and offers a welcoming and supportive environment for students looking to advance their education in one of the most historic and vibrant cities in the United States.

Nestled along the South Carolina coast, Charleston is known for its stunning architecture, progressive community, and vibrant culture. From historic streets and waterfront views to a thriving business scene and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Charleston offers the perfect blend of history, innovation, and Southern hospitality. 

As a graduate student, you’ll benefit from a dynamic learning environment in a city that serves as a living classroom—whether you're networking with industry leaders, engaging in groundbreaking research, or simply enjoying the Lowcountry lifestyle.

With rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, and a strong commitment to student success, our university prepares you for global career opportunities.

Admissions Requirements

An international student is any student who comes to the United States temporarily to earn a graduate degree. International applicants are required to provide additional documents as part of the application. Review the items below to learn more.
  • Application and Deadlines

    International applicants use the same online application as domestic applicants. You are encouraged to submit the application and required materials as early in the admissions process as possible.

  • Academic Records

    Transcripts submitted from non-U.S. universities must provide, in addition to the official transcript, a credential evaluation that highlights the degree equivalency and grading assessment on a 4.0 scale.

    Below are recommended evaluation agencies.

    • International Education Evaluations, Inc. - Applicants receive a discount for digital delivery
    • The Evaluation Company (formerly SpanTran)
    • World Education Services, Inc.
    • Educational Perspectives
    • Educational Credential Evaluators
    • One Earth International Credential Evaluations

    Note: Applicants must provide a course-by-course evaluation

    International students who earned their degree from a U.S. university do not need a credentialing evaluation of the transcript. Unofficial transcripts from a U.S. university can be uploaded through the application and are accepted as part of the initial review.

  • English Language Proficiency

    English proficiency is required for all international students. Proficiency is confirmed by submitting the IELTS, TOEFL, or DuoLingo exams.

    Minimum acceptable scores include a 6.5 on the IELTS, 550 on the paper-based TOEFL or 83 on the computer-based TOEFL, or 105 on DuoLingo. Score reports must be submitted directly from the testing agency.

    This requirement may be waived for international students who attended a U.S. university or whose coursework was taught primarily in English. Documentation is required.

  • Passport/Immigration Documents

    A copy of your current, valid passport picture page must be uploaded in the application.

    If you are currently studying in the United States, please also include a copy of your current U.S. visa or residency card.

  • Financial Documents

    Adequate financial support is required for all incoming international students.

    If accepted, please email us to complete the Certificate of Finance form to submit the document to the Center for International Education for visa processing. Due to delayed appointment scheduling and visa processing times, you are encouraged to make an appointment with your consulate soon after you have submitted your deposit to enroll in the program.

  • 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


    Admitted 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

    The College of Charleston has a long tradition of welcoming international students to our campus and community. Students from all over the world call the College of Charleston their home away from home. The Center for International Education (CIE) is the primary contact for future and current international students. The staff is available to help with any questions or problems you might have.

    CIE serves as your resource on immigration matters, your liaison to other campus services and also assists you with your personal adjustment to life in the U.S.