International Graduate Admissions

International Applicants

Regardless of citizenship or national origin, all graduate applicants with international academic credentials are required to hold credentials evaluated to be comparable to a four-year degree from an accredited university or college in the United States and meet the university's English proficiency standard.  International students are also required to provide documents relating to visa or residency status. 

International flags hanging in the Johnson Center, Fairfax campus, celebrating international week at Mason.
The Johnson Center on the Fairfax campus is decked out with flags to celebrate International Week at Mason.

International Academic Credentials

All graduate applicants with international academic credentials are required to have earned what is evaluated to be comparable to a four-year degree.  A complete explanation of the university's policies and procedures for submitting international academic credentials can be found in the International Transcript Submission Guidelines.

English Proficiency Standards

All graduate applicants with international credentials are required to take an English proficiency examination and meet minimum scores set by Mason.  The following tests can be used to meet this requirement:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
  • PTE (Pearson Test of English)

A complete explanation of the university’s English proficiency standards, minimum scores, and the requirements for an English Waiver (if applicable) can be found on the university’s English Proficiency Requirements webpage.

Visa and Residency Documents

Most international students need to provide documents relating to visa or residency status.  These requirements are not part of your academic application reviewed by the admissions committee but are necessary to enroll at Mason.

Resources for International Documentation:

International Students General Admissions Information 

International Students Graduate Student Visa Information

Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS)