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Graduate Admissions

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Frequently Asked Questions

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[Before You Apply ]  [After You Apply ]  [After You Are Admitted ]  [Search Frequently Asked Questions]



BEFORE YOU APPLY [Return to top of page]

| Accept/Decline/Defer Admission | Admissions Process | Application Fee | English as a Second Language | Financial Aid | Financial Documents | Graduate Programs | Immigration | Letters of Recommendation | Miscellaneous | Requirements/Deadlines | Testing | Transcripts |



ACCEPT/DECLINE/DEFER ADMISSION..   [Return to Subject List]

I AM A POST-DOC AT OHIO STATE; HOW DO I ENROLL IN GRADUATE COURSES?

1. If you want to enroll in graduate level courses, you will have to apply to the Graduate Non-Degree program. You can find the application for the Graduate Non-Degree program online at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/nondegree.html

2. If you are applying to the Graduate Non-Degree program, you must have completed at least a 4 year Bachelor’s Degree. You must attach copies of your Bachelor's degree granting official transcript or diploma to the online application.

3. If you are a international or a recent immigrant, refugee or asylee, and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree outside of the United States, you are required to take demonstrate English Proficiency. You can take an institutional MELAB test to prove your English Proficiency through our American Language Program (ALP). Please contact the Graduate Admissions Office to setup a time to take the MELAB test. 614-292-9444 gradadmissions@osu.edu

4. International graduate non-degree applications are subject to a graduate school review. Remember to mention that you are doing research work for Ohio State University in your application.

I AM PLANNING TO VISIT THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY AND I WOULD LIKE TOUR INFORMATION.

If you would like to visit campus, please contact the graduate program to which you plan to apply. Contact information may be found at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp

WHAT KIND OF BANK STATEMENTS SHOULD I SEND IN ORDER TO GET A STUDENT VISA DOCUMENT?

U.S. Student visa applicants must present proof to their University and the U.S. Consulate /Embassy, that they have enough funds on deposit to pay for one year of tuition and living expenses. Refer to the budget sent to you for current tuition figures. When international students are reccomended for admission at Ohio State University, we send an email inviting them to send bank statements and fill out an affidavit form.

An Ohio State University Graduate Fellowship or Associateship can prove that you have funding. Sometimes Fellowships and Associateships are not sufficient to pay all estimated expenses, particularly if you are planning to bring your spouse or children. It is a good idea to send a bank statement and affidavit even if you know you have won a Fellowship or Associateship. If you know you are receiving funding, contact us to confirm that we have knowledge of your award.

Bank/Financial Statements:
Must contain at least our estimate of your Total Estimated Annual Expenses. (See International Graduate Student Budget emailed from our office to all admitted studentshttp://admissions.osu.edu/apps/pdfs/ig-affad.pdf).
Must be in English. Particularly the account holder’s name
Must specify the currency type clearly
Must be from an official of the bank.
Must be on bank stationery.
Must be dated no older than 12 months before the date that you begin your studies.
The total amount on collective statements must be enough to cover expenses for the first year of study.
The account holder’s name must match the sponsor’s name on the Affidavit of Support.

Unacceptable Financial Statements
• Insurance Policies (unless loan or cash value is stated)
• Certified Chartered Accountant Statements
• Real Estate
• Jewelry
• Charge Accounts
• Web financial documents (unless printed on bank letterhead, signed by bank official)

A completed Ohio State Affidavit of Support form is also needed for admission.


ADMISSIONS PROCESS   [Return to Subject List]

DO I HAVE TO SUBMIT MY SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER WHEN I APPLY?

Domestic applicants: A US Social Security number is required if you want to be considered for governmental aid from the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA). Otherwise, submission of a U.S. Social Security number is optional.

If you opt not to include your social security number on your admissions application and still wish to receive US Federal and State financial aid, please contact our office so we can determine a safe way for you to transmit that information. Never send us your social security number, or name and date of birth via email.

HOW DO I ACTIVATE MY OHIO STATE EMAIL ACCOUNT?

visit http://my.osu.edu to activate your Ohio State Username.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR A SECOND GRADUATE PROGRAM?

Some programs use an application service check http://gradapply.osu.edu to know if yours has it's own application service. If it does not, then to apply to additional graduate programs you will need to log onto your CollegeNET account at https://www.applyweb.com/apply/osu/index.html. Once in your account you can update needed changes, and select your intended graduate program(s). Please be advised that applying to multiple programs (3 maximum) requires the following:
1) For Graduate Program offices: Each program requires a separate on-line application and fee, plus general and department specific admission documents.
a. a revised Statement of Intent, CV and other materials to the online application.
b. submit new requests to your references via the online application because previously submitted references cannot be viewed by your new program
c. Check individual program websites for any additional department specific requirements: http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp
2) For Graduate Admissions: a separate on-line application and fee is required for each program, but only one set of transcripts is needed.

HOW DO I CALCULATE MY GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA)?

To calculate your cumulative GPA from a 4.0
grading scale, multiply the Number value for
letter grades x Hours (see below) = Quality
Points. When you get a total of all quality points
and hours, divide the total quality points by the
total hours. Note: If you have both quarter hours
and semester hours, you will need to first convert
all hours to either semester or quarter hours. To
convert semester hours to quarter hours, multiply
total semester hours by 1.5 to get the equivalent
quarter hours. Or to change quarter hours to
semester, divide quarter hours by 1.5 to find the
equivalent semester hours; e.g., 45 quarter hours
= 30 semester hours
Example Calculation:
Number values for letter grades on a 4.0 scale
A=4.0 B+=3.3 B-=2.7 C=2.0 D+=1.3
A-=3.7 B=3.0 C+=2.3 C-=1.7 D=1.0

Calculation example:
(A) 4.0 x 3 hrs. = 12.0 quality points
(A-) 3.7 x 2 hrs. = 7.4 quality points
(B+) 3.3 x 4 hrs. = 13.2 quality points
Total 9 hrs. = 32.6 quality points

32.6 quality points divide 9 hrs. = 3.62 GPA

I CAN'T ACCESS THE ONLINE APPLICATION. MY USERNAME AND PASSWORD ARE CORRECT.

From https://www.applyweb.com/apply/osu/index.html Please check that your browser security is set low enough to allow pop-up windows. After creating an account, you must log in through a pop-up window.

If you have forgotten your user name or password, please click on the "Forgot Password," "Forgot Username," links under "Manage Your Account" section of the log in page.

Ohio State students should be aware that your username and password for the Graduate online application is separate from the OSU Webmail system. Your username and password will not be the same, unless you created it to match your OSU Webmail account information.

I FORGOT MY ONLINE APPLICATION PASSWORD OR USERNAME.

The online application password and username used to apply to Ohio State University, is not the same as the OSU password and username you are given subsequent to applying or becoming a student.

You can write help@applyweb.com or if you have lost your username please visit https://www.applyweb.com/public/lostlogin

If you have lost your password please visit
https://www.applyweb.com/public/lostpass

WHAT ARE THE STEPS OF THE ADMISSION PROCESS?

An applicant should apply online at http://gradapply.osu.edu. You will receive an email immediately acknowledging the receipt of your application. Then 24-48 hours later, you will receive a second email from the Office of the Chief Information Officer that assigns you an OSU ID Number, and username. You will receive a third email that instructs you to check the status of your application online at http://appstatus.osu.edu.

Most applicants scan and send their transcripts to the Graduate Admissions Office and their program via the online application. Reference letters, and statement of purpose and any other required materials such as a portfolio, or departmental applications are sent to the program office. Reference letters, CVs, Statements of purpose can also be sent via the online application to the program. Please refer to http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp for more information on where to send application materials. Please check your status periodically to confirm that your application materials have been received.

Once the Graduate Admissions Office and graduate program have received all required application materials, the Graduate Studies Committee of your program will review your application and make an admissions decision.


The Graduate Admissions Office will prepare and send either a Notice of Admission or non-selection letter.

If admitted, international students receive an email informing them of their admission, and requesting proof of financial support, required for a student visa. The Graduate Admissions Office reviews all Graduate Assistantships, Fellowships, and financial statements, before issuing international students a Notice of Admission and visa document.

The entire application process may take several months. Applicants are urged to apply in fall for admission the following Fall Semester. Most Admission decisions are made between January and April.


APPLICATION FEE   [Return to Subject List]

CAN A FRIEND IN THE UNITED STATES PAY MY APPLICATION FEE?

Yes, a third party can pay your application fee. You must give a friend access to your online application where they can pay using Visa, Discover, American Express or Mastercard.

CAN I USE THE ONLINE APPLICATION THEN SEND A PAPER CHECK OR MONEY ORDER?

No. Do not complete the on-line application and then send a paper check in the mail to the Graduate Admissions Office or Apply Web.

While you cannot send us a paper check, you can select the "Pay Online with Electronic Check" option if you have a U.S. bank account. No paper checks can be accepted by regular mail.

When you pay by check on-line, it is similar to using a debit card (https://www.applyweb.com/documentation/check.html) Use the Apply Web Secure Check Input Form, fill in your check account number and the bank routing number, along with, all other required information.

Please note: The preferred method of payment is a credit card so, using the online check feature can delay the processing of your application by up to 6 business days (we must wait for the check to be cleared by your banking institution).

CAN I USE THE ONLINE APPLICATION WITHOUT A CREDIT CARD?

Yes, but only if you intend to pay by electronic check. Pay By Check is available to those with U.S. Bank accounts only. See https://www.applyweb.com/documentation/check.html

Please note that payment by electronic check may delay the initial processing of your application by a week, while your check clears the bank.

CAN MY APPLICATION FEE BE WAIVED?

No. University policy states payment of the application fee cannot be waived or postponed. Your application materials will not be received, nor processed without the online payment of the application fee.

Participants in the following programs may be eligible for a fee waiver; CIC Free Apps, McNair Scholars Program, National Name Exchange, STARS, Summer Reserach Opportunity Program (SROP) or the Graduate & Professional Student Visitation Day (GPSVD).

HOW CAN I PAY THE APPLICATION FEE?

Payment of your application fee must be made on-line in order for your application to be submitted. When you have completed the application and are ready to send it to Ohio State, click 'Save/Pay/Send' at the bottom of the last page. This saves your data in its final form and takes you to the payment page where you pay your application fee online. Your application is not sent to Ohio State University until you pay your application fee and it is authorized.

On the payment page, you can pay your application fee by debit/credit card or check (US bank accounts only). If you are paying by debit or credit card: Fill in all information, including the complete credit card number, expiration date, and card billing information. Click the 'Submit this information' button. Pay by Check is available online to those with U.S. bank accounts only. Do not send a paper check or credit card information by mail when applying online.

HOW MUCH IS THE APPLICATION FEE?

With the exception of some Fischer College of Business programs, the Graduate School application fee is US$40 for US citizens, permanent residents or asylees, and US$50 for International students. The fee is paid by credit card or e-check at the time that an applicant submits the online application. Payment should not be sent separately to the Graduate Admissions Office.


ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE   [Return to Subject List]

HOW CAN I APPLY ON-LINE TO YOUR INTENSIVE ENGLISH LANGUAGE TRAINING PROGRAM?

Our on-campus intensive English-as-a-second language program is called the American Language Program (ALP). Answers to most of your questions can be found on their website. http://www.esl.ohio-state.edu/ALP To apply, visit their website.

IF I ENROLL IN THE AMERICAN LANGUAGE PROGRAM, AM I GUARANTEED ADMISSION TO THE UNIVERSITY?

No. Please be aware that admission to or enrollment in the American Language Program (ALP) does not guarantee admission to a graduate program at Ohio State. You will not be able to register for courses outside the ALP curriculum during your enrollment in ALP. If you have any questions, please contact:

American Language Program
The Ohio State University
60 Arps Hall
1945 N. High Street
Columbus, OH 43210, USA
Phone: 614-292-1364
Fax: 614-292-4054
e-mail: alp@osu.edu


FINANCIAL AID   [Return to Subject List]

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR US FEDERAL STUDENT FINANCIAL AID AS A GRADUATE NON-DEGREE STUDENT?

US Federal Financial Aid is restricted to the following groups:
U.S. citizens
U.S. national (includes natives of American Samoa or Swain’s Island)
U.S. permanent resident who has an I-151, I-551, or I-551C (Permanent Resident Card)
Citizen of the Freely Associated States: the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republics of Palau and the Marshall Islands
Have an Arrival-Departure Record (I-94) from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) showing one of the following designations:
“Refugee”
“Asylum Granted”
“Cuban-Haitian Entrant”
“Conditional Entrant” (valid only if issued before April 1, 1980)
Victims of human trafficking, T-visa (T-2, T-3, or T-4, etc.) holder “Parolee”

Please direct your financial aid inquiries to the Student Service Center (SSC) at The Ohio State University. Contact information for the SSC is:

Student Services Center
http://ssc.osu.edu/

Student Academic Services Building, 1st Floor, 281 West Lane Avenue
Columbus, OH 43210
Phone: (614) 292-0300 | Toll-free: (800) 678-6440 | E-mail: ssc@osu.edu


SSC Hours:
Phones and Walk-ins:
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Friday


HOW CAN I BE CONSIDERED FOR FINANCIAL AID?

Several programs have applications for Associateships, but generally speaking there is no separate application form to fill out. For graduate applicants, most financial aid is available in the form of University Fellowships and graduate associateships. To apply for Fellowships and associateships, check the appropriate box(es) on the admission application. You may also want to contact your graduate program to express your interest in financial support. Contact information may be found at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp However, please be aware that only a limited number of awards are available; therefore, not all those who apply for Fellowships or associateships receive them.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR AN ASSOCIATESHIP?

Some graduate programs have a separate application
for associateships. Please contact your intended
graduate program to determine if this is required.
Program contact information can be found at:
http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp .

To indicate interest in funding consideration it
is usually sufficient to check the boxes on the
graduate school application under, "Funding
Opportunities." Your selections will be: Graduate
School Fellowship, Administrative Associateship,
Research Associateship, and Teaching
Associateship. Most applicants are automatically
considered for Fellowships if they qualify.

I HAVE AN H VISA. AM I ELIGIBLE FOR FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID?

No, H visa holders are not eligible for federal financial aid from the U.S. government. Since the H1 visa holder pays taxes in the State of Ohio, they may be eligible for in-state tuition. See the Office of the Registrar's website for information on Ohio residency criteria at http://registrar.osu.edu. For information on how to change your visa type, contact the International Students and Scholars Office. http://oia.osu.edu/international-students.html

WHAT ARE YOUR CRITERIA FOR A UNIVERSITY FELLOWSHIP?

For information on University Fellowships, please visit the website of the Graduate School. http://www.gradsch.ohio-state.edu

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR FELLOWSHIP CONSIDERATION?

The final deadline for the Graduate Admissions office to receive an admissions application, along with, supporting documents for Fellowship consideration is: January 7 for domestic applicants and November 30 for international applicants. Contact your prospective program directly concerning their Fellowship deadline. Please be aware there are a limited number of awards available, and they are very competitive; therefore, not all applicants who apply for Fellowships or associateships receive them.

Note: The Fellowship deadlines are receipt deadlines, not postmark deadlines. Any application arriving in our office after the deadlines will not be considered in the University Fellowship competition.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FELLOWSHIP AND AN ASSOCIATESHIP?

The Graduate School administers internal
university fellowships as well as graduate
fellowships and traineeships funded through
national and local agencies. Some academic units
have their own endowed fellowships as well. By
far, the largest form of financial assistance
comes to graduate students in the form of graduate
teaching, research, or administrative
associateships. If you are interested in applying
for a financial award, check the “funding
opportunities” box(es) of choice on the admission
application. Consult with your intended graduate
program about any special financial aid
application forms, requirements, deadlines, and
procedures.
In the Graduate School Handbook, the Fellowship is
defined as "... a financial award made by the
university directly to a graduate student to
provide support during a portion of the graduate
degree program. Graduate fellows cannot be
required to perform a service in return for
receiving a stipend. Fellows are selected on the
basis of academic merit through a university-wide
competition without respect to financial need."
The purpose of the First-Year Fellowship is to
attract and retain a diverse and high quality
graduate student population. The Presidential
Fellowship provides support to students so that
they may complete the dissertation unencumbered by
other duties. The award recognizes the student’s
research potential and scholarly achievements.
Regarding Graduate Associateships, the Handbook
explains that "...a graduate student’s principal
objective is to earn a graduate degree.
Appointment as a GA contributes to that objective
by providing an apprenticeship experience along
with financial support. This apprenticeship
complements formal instruction and gives the
student practical, personal experience that can be
gained only by performing instructional, research,
or administrative activities. It is expected that
GA responsibilities will not interfere with a
student’s reasonable progress toward completion of
the graduate degree. The three Graduate Associate
titles are: Graduate Administrative Associate
(GAA), Graduate Research Associate (GRA), and
Graduate Teaching Associate (GTA). Specific GA
responsibilities are determined by the appointing
units. These may include teaching classes,
recitations, and labs; advising and counseling
students; grading papers; gathering and analyzing
data; writing reports; and assisting faculty
members and administrators.


FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS.   [Return to Subject List]

I RECEIVED AN EMAIL FOR THE SECOND TIME SAYING THAT I NEED TO SEND FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS, BUT I ALREADY HAVE SENT THEM. WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

This means that the documents received did not meet our requirements. To know what we found wrong with the documents please check your status at http://appstatus.osu.edu Use the OSU ID Number and password sent to you after you applied. If you do not find the email, write our office at gradadmissions@osu.edu and ask that we resend it. If you forgot your password, please call 614-688-4357 and have the 8HELP line staff reset your password. Write gradadmissions@osu.edu if you have further questions.


GRADUATE PROGRAMS   [Return to Subject List]

DOES OHIO STATE OFFER HOTEL AND RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT AT THE GRADUATE LEVEL?

Yes. For information on our Hospitality Management Program please see http://legacy.ehe.osu.edu/cs/programs/graduate/

DOES OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY OFFER COURSES VIA THE WEB, OR VIA CORRESPONDENCE?

Ohio State has begun a comprehensive program to bring distance education offerings to both existing and potential Ohio State students. As new courses are developed, they are listed at the Learning Technology website: http://lt.osu.edu/online-courses. At this site, you will not only find a listing of distance education courses, you will find information about other ongoing work in this area.

HOW DO I APPLY TO THE MBA PROGRAM?

There are several ways to obtain application materials for the MBA program at Ohio State. Visit the Fisher College of Business website for more information at http://fisher.osu.edu

I WANT TO STUDY LIBRARY SCIENCE.

The Ohio State University does not offer a graduate degree program in Library Science. However, the Kent State University School of Library and Information Science has a Columbus Campus at the State Library of Ohio. They offer several a Master of Library Information Science degree programs.
For more information visit:
http://www.slis.kent.edu/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=55&Itemid=133

I WANT TO STUDY MEDICINE AT THE GRADUATE LEVEL AT OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY.

The Ohio State University's graduate program Masters of Science in Medical Science limits its admission to students who have either completed an M.D. or D.O. and who are in training at the Ohio State University Medical Center as a clinical Resident or Fellow. If you do not meet these criteria, you may wish to pursue other Ohio State graduate programs related to medical science.

MY GRADUATE PROGRAM IS NOT OFFERED.

The following website contains a list of graduate programs offered at Ohio State http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp. Please type in your area of interest in the "Search Programs" box. This keyword search will allow you to find in which Graduate Program is your area of interest offered. Graduate Programs have become more inter-disciplinary. While the specific program of study you are interested in might not be available, your area of interest may be found in one of the other graduate programs offered at Ohio State. To get more information about a particular graduate program, please visit their website. If you feel your educational objective can be met at Ohio State, we encourage you to apply at http://gradapply.osu.edu


IMMIGRATION   [Return to Subject List]

I HAVE AN H VISA. AM I CONSIDERED A "DOMESTIC APPLICANT?"

No. You are considered an International applicant. International applicants must meet Ohio State's English language proficiency requirements. http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/TOEFL_requirement.html

There are many potential immigration issues to consider when applying to Ohio State. If you would like to change your visa type from an H to an F or J, then you will have to submit financial documents. Some students on H visas pay in-state tuition. If you have an H4 visa and wish to obtain a graduate associateship, you will need to change your visa to an F or J. If you have an H1, and wish to enroll full-time and quit your job, you will have to change your visa to an F or J. If you have immigration questions at any point in the application process, please contact information for the Office of International Affairs; International Students and Scholars Office at http://oia.osu.edu/iss.html for assistance.

I WOULD LIKE TO APPLY TO THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY, BUT I HAVE QUESTIONS REGARDING MY VISA STATUS IN THE UNITED STATES.

If you are an international applicant who has an immigration-related question, please contact the Office of International Affairs; International Students and Scholars Office. Their contact information is: International Students and Scholars Office, Oxley Hall, 1712 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210-1219 USA, telephone number 614-292-6101, fax number 614-292-4725, e-mail: iss@oia.osu.edu or website http://oia.osu.edu/. In addition, ISS advisors would be glad to discuss the services they give to the over 5,000 international students and scholars at Ohio State.

WHY DO YOU NEED MY "ADDRESS OUTSIDE THE U.S."? I LIVE IN THE U.S. NOW.

Your home country address is needed for SEVIS
(Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).
It is a requirement for your I-20 document to be
issued.

Note: This SEVIS address does not necessarily need
to be your mailing address, unless you inform us
the address provided is where you wish to receive
mail. The address should be your permanent home
country address

Although not preferable, a P.O. Box address is
acceptable. Please know though a P.O.Box cannot be
used for Express Mail delivery.


LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION   [Return to Subject List]

CAN I USE AN EMPLOYER TO WRITE A RECOMMENDATION LETTER FOR ME?

You should contact your prospective graduate program to determine suitable recommenders for your admissions application.

HOW DO I CHECK ON THE STATUS OF A RECOMMENDATION LETTER?

To check the status of your letters of reference, go to https://www.applyweb.com/apply/osu/grad_files/menu.html, under "Manage your Account", select "Review Your Activity." From here you may access your application to resend the email to your recommenders or make corrections. Make sure that your recommenders are looking for the email. It could get caught in their spam or junk mail filter. Use the "Edit recommender" feature to update the recommender's information. A new message is automatically sent when you save the change to the recommender's email address.
Important to note: If a recommender has already noted online they "accept" your request for a letter, it is no longer possible for you to make any edits.

HOW DO I SEND A REMINDER EMAIL TO A RECOMMENDER?

To send a reminder email to your recommender, correct a recommender's information, or check the status of your letters of reference, go to https://www.applyweb.com/apply/osu/grad_files/menu.html, under "Manage your Account", select "Review Your Activity." From here you may access your application to resend the email to your recommenders or make corrections. Make sure that your recommenders are looking for the email. It could get caught in their spam or junk mail filter. Use the "Edit recommender" feature to update the recommender's information. A new message is automatically sent when you save the change to the recommender's email address.
Important to note: If a recommender has already noted online they "accept" your request for a letter, it is no longer possible for you to make any edits.

HOW DO I USE THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY GRADUATE SCHOOL REFERENCE FORM?

The following advice is provided for regular graduate school applicants using the application available at https://www.applyweb.com/apply/osu/grad_files/menu.html It does not apply to College of Business, Public Health, DENTPAS Dentistry majors, OT/PT and Speech and Hearing applicants.

IF USING THE PAPER FORM


You should complete the front side of The Ohio State University Graduate School Reference Form http://admissions.osu.edu/apps/pdfs/refer.pdf and request that your recommenders complete the back of the form, and attach it to the recommendation letter. These forms are not used with electronically submitted letters. Some programs have their own specific paper reference forms.

Be sure to provide the direct contact information so the graduate program can contact your recommender via phone, mail, e-mail, or fax to ask questions. The completed reference forms and letters should be sent directly to your intended graduate program by your recommenders.



IF USING ONLINE REFERENCES


Please list the names and addresses of persons you are asking to complete letters of recommendation on page 6 of the online application. Some Graduate Programs require paper recommendation letters and have specific forms for their purpose. Check gradadpply.osu.edu/gri.asp before electing to use electronic references. To use, answer "Yes" to the question "Use Online Reference form?" You must list valid email addresses for your recommenders. Please make sure in advance that your references have indicated that they are willing to submit the reference electronically. Please keep in mind that it is your responsibility to ensure that your references have submitted their recommendations by the appropriate deadline. If you indicate that you would like to use the online process, instructions will be emailed to your references when you submit this form; do not send them a paper recommendation form. Public Law 93-380, Educational Amendments Act of 1974, grants students the right to have access to letters of recommendation in their placement files. By selecting the "Waive Access" checkbox you are waiving access to these letters.

WHERE IS THE ONLINE LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION FEATURE ON THE ONLINE APPLICATION?

Some graduate programs do not accept online letters of recommendation. For these programs, the online letter of recommendation section will not appear in the application.

If you have questions about your graduate program’s letter of reference policy, program contact information is available at: http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp

WHERE SHOULD I SEND MY REFERENCES AND STATEMENT OF PURPOSE? MAY I SEND EVERYTHING TO THE GRADUATE ADMISSIONS OFFICE?

References and the statement of purpose are reviewed by your prospective Graduate program so if sending via regular mail, send these items to the Graduate program office. Address information may be found at gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp References and the statement of purpose may be submitted electronically via our online application.


MISCELLANEOUS.   [Return to Subject List]

CAN I HAVE PRINTED MATERIALS MAILED?

In the past, we did have printed application forms and bulletins; however, these materials are no longer available. We are now referring prospective students to our website at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu; or, to directly contact the Graduate Admissions office for assistance.

Some graduate programs still have materials for mailing. Graduate Program contact information can be found at: http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp


HOW DO I FIND OUT ABOUT OPENINGS FOR ON-CAMPUS OR OFF-CAMPUS POSITIONS?

If you want to find out about available positions, please visit www.sfa.osu.edu/jobs.


I AM CONSIDERING POST-DOCTORAL WORK; WHO DO I NEED TO CONTACT?

1. You will want to contact a professor in a department that shares your research interest to inform them that you want to determine what research opportunities are available for you within their department.

2. You will want to contact The Office of International Affairs-International Student Services (OIA-ISS) for assistance in obtaining an Exchange Visitor Visa(J). OIA-ISS can be contacted via e-mail at iss@oia.osu.edu

I FORGOT MY OSU USERNAME OR PASSWORD.

You can request assistance or access the information needed at the following websites:


1) http://my.osu.edu: *Go to : “Forgot UserName” or "Forgot Password" Link on this page

- or -

2) Contact 614-688-4357 (8-Help) http://ocio.osu.edu/help/ - to request assistance


If you have additional questions, please contact our office at gradadmissions@osu.edu and we will be happy to provide assistance.

MAY I WRITE TO THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY IN A LANGUAGE OTHER THAN ENGLISH?

The Ohio State Graduate Admissions Office cannot respond to correspondence written in a language other than English.

WHAT SERVICES ARE OFFERED TO DISABLED STUDENTS AT OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY?

Applicants with any disability, permanent or temporary, who may require special assistance, are urged to contact the Office for Disability Services, 150 Pomerene Hall, 1760 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1297, telephone: (614) 292-3307. http://www.ods.ohio-state.edu This office coordinates academic support services and accommodations for individuals who have special needs as a result of a permanent or temporary disability. Individuals eligible for services include, but are not limited to, those with attention deficit disorder, mobility, hearing, visual, speech, psychiatric, or learning disabilities. If you want more information about these support services and accommodations, please contact the Office for Disability Services at http://www.ods.ohio-state.edu Your self referral is the only indication of your interest and need of these services.


REQUIREMENTS/DEADLINES   [Return to Subject List]

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR ADMISSION IF I HOLD A THREE YEAR DEGREE

The Ohio State University does not recognize a three year bachelor's degree to be comparable to the American bachelor's degree. One of the basic requirements for admission to Graduate School is the completion of an American bachelor's degree or its equivalent prior to matriculation. To determine if you meet the degree requirements for admission to The Ohio State University, please contact the Graduate Admissions Office. Our contact information can be found online at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gpcontacts.html.


CAN I SEND APPLICATION MATERIALS AFTER THE DEADLINE?

Communicate directly with your intended graduate program regarding the late receipt of application materials. Some graduate programs adhere strictly to deadlines while others allow more flexibility. Graduate program contact information may be accessed at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp

WHAT ARE YOUR GRADUATE ADMISSION DEADLINES?

Deadlines are set by individual graduate programs and those deadlines may be found at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp Graduate programs make decisions primarily between December and March. With some exceptions the financial aid deadline for International applicants is November 30. The financial aid deadline for domestic applicants is January 7.

WHAT IS THE CRITERIA OF ADMISSION FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL?

Admission criteria are established both by the Graduate School and by the graduate program. An applicant must submit documentation that
demonstrates fulfillment of the following admission criteria:

Credentials documenting prerequisite academic work that gives evidence of ability to pursue a graduate program in your chosen area.

* A four-year baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited college or university prior to beginning graduate studies.

* At minimum, a cumulative grade point average equivalent to at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (B grade) in all prior undergraduate and graduate level course work. The university uses the following grades to reflect academic level of performance: A=excellent, B=good, C=fair or average, D=poor, and E=failure.

* You are required to submit GRE or GMAT scores if your cumulative undergraduate GPA is below the minimum 3.0; or, if you hold a degree from an unaccredited college or university.

* International applicants and applicants who have held U.S. asylee, refugee or permanent resident status for less than one year must also provide a 550 on the paper based TOEFL test, 79 on the Internet Based TOEFL or 7 on the International English Language Testing System(IELTS)exam, or 82 on the MELAB.

Applicants who are citizens of or who have received a bachelor's degree or higher in one of the following countries are exempt from the English proficiency requirement: Australia, Belize, the British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States, and Wales.

All other requirements are set by the graduate programs themselves, and are often much higher than these minimum requirements. To know their exact admissions requirements go to: http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp

WILL I STILL BE ELIGIBLE TO BE CONSIDERED FOR A UNIVERSITY FELLOWSHIP IF MY GRE AND TOEFL TEST SCORES ARRIVE AT OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY AFTER THE FELLOWSHIP DEADLINE?

Official test scores should arrive by the fellowship deadline. Official test scores are required of Fellowship candidates and it is your responsibility to make sure they are reported directly to Ohio State by the appropriate testing agency. It can often take a several weeks for scores to arrive in our office from Testing Services. This means that unless you order your scores to be sent to us well in advance of the fellowship deadline, you cannot be certain that they will arrive on time.

If your scores will not arrive before the fellowship deadline, contact your prospective graduate program. You may still be able to compete for research and teaching positions, which can have more flexible deadlines than fellowships.


TESTING   [Return to Subject List]

ARE GRE SCORES REQUIRED FOR FELLOWSHIP CONSIDERATION?

Yes. A GRE or GMAT score is required for admission to most graduate programs with some exceptions. Please confirm whether your program requires a GRE or GMAT score at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp Specific GRE/GMAT section percentiles are required for consideration for many Fellowships. See http://www.gradsch.ohio-state.edu/graduate-school-fellowships-for-first-year-graduate-students.html for details. You will be considered for a Fellowship by your graduate program and the Graduate School if your application is complete, you are a good candidate and you fit the criteria outlined on the Graduate School website.

GRE/GMAT Scores are not required for students pursuing a tagged degree in Art, Dance, Industrial, Interior and Visual Communication Design, Music and Theatre performance.

ARE OFFICIAL TEST SCORES REQUIRED FOR FELLOWSHIP APPLICANTS?

Yes. To receive consideration for University Fellowships, applicants are required to have the testing agency report their scores directly to the The Ohio State University (ETS institution code #1592). Photocopies of TOEFL, IELTS, MELAB, GRE or GMAT scores are not considered to be official and are not acceptable substitutes for official scores.
The only exceptions to this policy are for those applying to the MFA in Dance, Art or Theatre, the Master of Music (performance), Industrial, Interior and Visual Communication Design and Doctor of Music.

CAN I DEFER TAKING THE TOEFL?

For the majority of students, The Ohio State University does not admit applicants who have not met the requirement for proof of English proficiency. If your TOEFL score might (or will) arrive after a published application deadline, you should discuss this matter with your program. See http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp for contact information. Conditional Admission pending receipt of an acceptable toefl, is an option for applicants whose program deems it to be appropriate.

CAN THE ADMISSIONS OFFICE WAIVE MY GRE OR GMAT SCORE REQUIREMENT?

No. The Graduate Admissions Office can not waive a GRE or GMAT test score requirement. When your prospective graduate program has listed the GRE or GMAT as an admissions requirement it is expected that you will take the test. You may contact the Graduate Studies Committee Chairperson to discuss whether your application will be considered without the test scores.

Note: If you have below a "B" average on all undergraduate university level work, then a GRE or GMAT score is absolutely required and cannot be waived under any circumstances.

CAN YOU FORWARD A COPY OF THE TOEFL OR GRE SCORE REPORT THAT I SENT YOU TO ANOTHER INSTITUTION?

We will not forward a copy of your score report to another institution and will not accept one from another institution.

Official scores are reported to OSU in electronic format, without paper copy. A score report is considered to be official only if it is sent directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS). If you need to order additional score reports, you can contact ETS.

Please be aware that TOEFL and IELTS test scores are only valid for two years, and may not be re-ordered after they expire. GRE and GMAT scores may be re-ordered for 5 years.

DO I HAVE TO TAKE AN ENGLISH PLACEMENT TEST?

Most international students are also required to take a written English composition placement test when they arrive at Ohio State. You may be exempt from this requirement if you:

1) Were previously enrolled in an academic program at Ohio State

2) Are a citizen of the following countries or regions: Australia, Belize, Canada (except Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Liberia, United Kingdom (English, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland), The Commonwealth Caribbean, and the United States

3) Score 650 on Paper-based TOEFL(PBT);114 Internet-based TOEFL(IBT)

4) Score 95 on the MELAB test, or 90 overall and 90 writing subscore

5) Score 9.0 on the IELTS (Overall Band Score)

6) Score 8.0 on the IELTS (Overall Band Score) and 8.0 Academic Writing module

HOW DO I KNOW IF I MUST TAKE THE GRE OR GMAT TEST?

To determine if Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) scores are required to support your application, contact your graduate program. Graduate requirements, deadlines and contact information may be found at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp

You are required to submit GRE or GMAT scores if your undergraduate GPA is below the minimum of 3.0/4.0, or if you hold a degree from an unaccredited college of university. In this case, the Graduate School requires a GRE or GMAT score, even if the graduate program does not, and the score requirement may not be waived.

MAY I BE CONDITIONALLY ADMITTED BEFORE RECEIVING AN ACCEPTABLE SCORE ON THE TOEFL, MELAB OR IELTS TESTS?

One cannot apply for conditional admission. Conditional admission is initiated by the Graduate program to which you apply. It is only possible for applicants who have insufficient TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB scores but meet ALL other admission requirements. Applicants without current English proficiency test scores or the other admission requirements, are not eligible. Conditional admission must be approved by the Graduate School as well as your Graduate Program.

Graduate degree applicants with a TOEFL iBT score of 61 or higher, but lower than Ohio State’s required 79-80 iBT (equivalent to a paper-based TOEFL score of 500 or higher, but lower than 550), an IELTS score of 5.0 or higher but lower than 7.0, or a MELAB score of 69 or higher but lower than 82, may be recommended by a graduate program for admission with English proficiency conditional admission pending Graduate School Approval. See details: http://www.gradsch.osu.edu/conditional-admission-english-proficiency.html

Conditionally admitted students are required to enroll in Ohio State’s intensive English language unit, the American Language Program (ALP), with the aim of achieving within one semester the required TOEFL, IELTS, MELAB, or whatever score is required by their graduate program. Conditionally admitted students may not enroll in any other Ohio State courses while studying in Ohio State's American Language Program. If and when the student passes this language threshold, he/she will be expected to enroll as a degree student in the admitting program starting immediately the following semester, which may not be later than the second semester after beginning ALP.


MY "DEPARTMENT CODE" IS NOT LISTED ON THE ETS WEBSITE WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Please use code 1592 for Ohio State University. Do not send scores directly to the graduate program office. If you do, they will not be attached to your applicant record.

MY ENTIRE EDUCATION WAS IN ENGLISH. MUST I TAKE THE TOEFL TEST?

You are exempt from taking an English proficiency test, such as, TOEFL, MELAB, or IELTS, if you have established citizenship in one of the following countries: Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, Wales, and The United States. US Green Card holders are exempt from taking an English proficiency test if they have held the Green Card at least one year prior to their quarter of enrollment.

If you are eligible to receive a 4 year bachelor’s degree or higher from one of the countries listed above, then you are exempt from taking an English proficiency test. Please note: It is not required that you must have your degree completed from one of the exempt countries at the time you are applying for admission. However, you must have completed your degree prior to your quarter of enrollment.

If your country is not listed as any of the exempt counties, you must take the English proficiency test.

WHAT IS THE MINIMUM GRE OR GMAT SCORE REQUIRED BY THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY?

The Ohio State University Graduate School does not specify minimum scores on the GRE or GMAT. However, the graduate program to which you are applying may have a minimum test score requirement. Contact information for all graduate programs may be found at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp

WHAT IS THE TOEFL/ENGLISH REQUIREMENT OF OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY?

Success at Ohio State depends upon the student's ability to converse in, write, and understand English. To assure such competence, the university normally requires any applicant whose native language is not English, and who has been educated primarily outside of the U.S., to submit recent, official scores of
  • at least 550 on the paper-based (79 on the Internet Based TOEFL) Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • or at least 82 on the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB),
  • or 7 on the International English Language Testing System(IELTS)exam.
The test must have been taken within the last two years.

Your intended graduate program may require a higher score. Ohio State does not conditionally admit applicants who have not met the requirement for proof of English proficiency.

Applicants who have been educated primarily in one of the following countries are exempt from the TOEFL or MELAB requirement: Australia, Belize, the British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States.

WHEN I SEND MY ETS TEST SCORES TO OHIO STATE, DO I NEED TO SELECT A DEPARTMENT CODE AS WELL AS AN INSTITUTION CODE?

No. Selecting only institution code 1592 ensures that the scores for GRE and TOEFL are received centrally, quickly, and are available to any graduate program to which you apply.

WILL THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY ACCEPT AN INSTITUTIONAL TOEFL, MELAB, IELTS TEST THAT I TOOK AT ANOTHER UNIVERSITY?

No. We do not accept score reports of institutional tests from other institutions.


TRANSCRIPTS   [Return to Subject List]

DO I HAVE TO SEND A TRANSCRIPT, IF THE WORK APPEARS AS TRANSFER CREDIT ON MY CURRENT TRANSCRIPT?

Coursework from one institution reported as transfer credit on another school's transcript does not meet Ohio State's definition of a transcript. Please send scans of official transcripts from all institutions attended via the online application or to gradadmissions@osu.edu after applying.

DO I HAVE TO SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS FOR POST SECONDARY OPTION CLASSES I DID IN HIGH SCHOOL?

Yes. If you received University credit for classes you took in High school, you must submit transcripts documenting that work.

DO I NEED TO ORDER OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY TRANSCRIPTS TO BE SENT TO GRADUATE ADMISSIONS FOR MY GRADUATE APPLICATION?

No. If your program uses the regular graduate school application, please do not send Ohio State University transcripts to the Graduate Admissions Office or to a Graduate Program. The Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions will obtain them directly from the Office of the University Registrar (at no cost to you) after your application arrives.

If you are applying to Public Health or Physical Therapy or a number of programs that require that you use an application service such as SOPHAS, PTCAS, Dent PASS, or CSDCAS etc.,(see gradapply.osu.edu) you may have to order a transcript to be sent to the application service.

MAY I SEND FAXED OR ELECTRONIC TRANSCRIPTS TO OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY IN SUPPORT OF MY GRADUATE APPLICATION?

We do accept faxed or scanned copies of official transcripts for initial application review. Please use the “Upload Transcript” button in the online application to submit copies (front and back) of official transcripts from ALL institutions attended where college credit was earned – even if you attended while in high school. International Credentials should include certified educational records and degree certificates or diplomas in the original language with English translations. Applicants who have attended Ohio State are not required to furnish OSU transcripts but must submit transcripts of any courses completed elsewhere. If you are admitted to the university, you will be required to send hard-copies of final official transcripts.

Submit only scanned images of paper official transcripts issued by your institution’s Registrar. If your institution provides electronic official transcripts you may submit those instead. Make sure to mark out all U.S. social security numbers before scanning. Ohio State will not accept web reports, advising reports, self-reported scores, or transfer credit on another school’s transcript.

If admission is later offered, official complete transcripts and proof of degree(s) in sealed envelopes from the issuing institution will be required.

The following guidelines should be observed when submitting transcripts electronically:

- If scanning multiple transcripts, send them as individual files

- When sending foreign language documents, send the English translation first, followed by the original language document

- For security purposes, conceal any social security numbers and full birth dates – send only month/day
- If official paper copies of transcripts have already been sent, do not resend them via fax or email.

- Web based academic advising reports are not accepted. Send only Scans or faxes of official transcripts
- If transcript reads “Unofficial” or “Grade Report” it will not be accepted
- If the transcript does not contain the official name of the University it will not be accepted
- If transcript contains a URL it will not be accepted. No transcript downloaded from a website is accepted.
- Sending any type of unofficial transcript will significantly delay the processing of your application. We cannot use it in lieu of a scan of a transcript or official transcript.

MUST I SEND SEPARATE TRANSCRIPTS TO MY GRADUATE PROGRAM?

You can now upload almost all application documents (including transcripts) with your online application. The only exceptions are official test scores (which are sent electronically from the testing center to our office) and electronic letters of recommendation (which are submitted by the reccomender after the application is submitted). The application and supporting documents are uploaded into an imaging system which allows the program to which you are applying access to view your documents. Therefore there will be no need for you to send separate documents to the program. We encourage you to use this option as it is not only cost effective but more time efficient as well.

Please use the “Upload Transcript” button on the online application to submit copies (front and back) of official transcripts from ALL institutions attended where college credit was earned – even if you attended while in high school. International Credentials should include certified educational records and degree certificates or diplomas in the original language with English translations. Applicants who have attended Ohio State are not required to furnish OSU transcripts but must submit transcripts of any courses completed elsewhere. If you are admitted to the university, you will be required to send hard-copies of final official transcripts.

Submit only scanned images of paper official transcripts issued by your institution’s Registrar. If your institution provides electronic official transcripts you may submit those instead. Make sure to mark out all U.S. social security numbers before scanning. Ohio State will not accept web reports, advising reports, self-reported scores, or transfer credit on another school’s transcript.

See gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp Your application will not be reviewed until all required documents are received in both the graduate program office and the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions.



AFTER YOU APPLY [Return to top of page]

| Accept/Decline/Defer Admission | Admissions Process | Application Status | Financial Aid | Immigration Visa Issues | Letters of Recommendation |



ACCEPT/DECLINE/DEFER ADMISSION.   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I GET A REFUND OF MY APPLICATION FEE?

University policy states the application fee is
non-refundable. Applicants are clearly informed
the fee is non-refundable and non-transferable at
the top of each page of the on-line application,
and before you enter the online application on the
click-through agreement page, where it reads: "If
you choose to submit this application, you will be
charged a NON-REFUNDABLE application fee. If you
submit an application in error, you will not
receive a refund of your application fee."


ADMISSIONS PROCESS.   [Return to Subject List]

MY APPLICANT CENTER READS THAT MY APPLICATION HAS BEEN "SENT TO THE GRADUATE PROGRAM FOR ACADEMIC REVIEW." WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

This means that the Graduate Admissions Office has reviewed your transcripts, calculated your GPA and notified your intended Graduate Studies Committee to begin the formal academic review process leading to a decision on your application. To check the status of your decision and to make sure that the program has received your letters of recommendation, personal statement and other required materials, please contact the graduate program to which you applied. When a decision is made on your application, you will receive a letter, or email. Prior to receiving a letter you may periodically check on your application status at http://appstatus.osu.edu.

MY APPLICANT CENTER STATUS READS; "YOUR APPLICATION IS CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF BEING EVALUATED AND PREPARED FOR AN ACADEMIC DECISION." WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

This message means that all items have been received, but that your Graduate Program has not yet asked the Graduate Admissions Office to evaluate your transcripts. Some programs are able to review your application dossier without our review, but the review itself is a necessary step when the decision is to admit. It is possible for the Graduate Admissions Committee to make a decision to reject without asking the Graduate Admissions Office for an evaluation of your transcripts. This would occur if your overall acadmemic dossier falls short of departmental requirements.

WHAT IS A "DEPARTMENT INTERNAL PROCEDURE" AND HOW CAN I "COMPLETE" IT?

The Department Internal Procedure GPDPFE item
noted as “Initiated” on your application checklist
is a procedure completed by your graduate program.
Applicants do not need to submit anything to
complete this requirement.
Please let us know if we can provide any further
assistance.

WHEN WILL I KNOW MY ADMISSION DECISION?

After your graduate program has made an admission decision, the program informs the Graduate Admissions Office. We then send a notice of admission or email if you are an international student, informing you of the decision. To know if a decision has been made on your application, please go to http://appstatus.osu.edu You must reference your OSU Student ID number to use the Applicant Center. Contact 614-688-HELP to reset your password. Contact gradadmissions@osu.edu if you have forgotten your username.


APPLICATION STATUS   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I CHECK THE STATUS OF MY APPLICATION?

The status of your application can be viewed online at http://appstatus.osu.edu.

After you submitted an application, you were sent an email from Ohio State University’s Information Technology(IT)Service Desk, assigning you an OSU ID and Internet username(lastname.#).

Important: Applicants who have or had an affiliation with Ohio State do not receive the above-mentioned email since they already have an OSU ID and Internet Username(lastname.#). The lastname.# is used to access their self service page. When the lastname.# and password are not active, it can be activated at: http://my.osu.edu. Or, if the OSU ID, username, or password are forgotten, assistance is also available at http://my.osu.edu.

For new applicants with no prior or current affliation with Ohio State who know their OSU ID and username(lastname.#), you must activate your lastname.# and create a password by requesting an activation code at: http://my.osu.edu . If you do not remember your ID, Username, or password, help is available at http://my.osu.edu. If you need assistance with the activation code request process, please visit 8help.osu.edu; or, contact the IT Service Desk by e-mail at 8help@osu.edu or calling (614) 688-HELP (4357).
For those applicants who do know their current password, passwords may be changed or reset by following the instructions at: http://my.osu.edu, or by contacting the IT Service Desk.


FINANCIAL AID.   [Return to Subject List]

I WANT TO BE CONSIDERED FOR FINANCIAL AID, BUT I DID NOT MARK THE CORRECT BOX ON THE APPLICATION.

If you have already applied for graduate admission and did not request consideration, or wish to be considered for additional financial aid, contact your prospective graduate program about Fellowships and associateships. If you are a domestic student, please contact the Student Service Center about applying for federal loans.

WHO MAKES THE FINAL ADMISSION AND FINANCIAL AID DECISIONS ON MY CASE?

Your prospective graduate program makes the final admission and financial aid (funding) decisions on your case. The Graduate Admissions Office will send you a letter notifying you of your graduate program's decision. International students will receive an email notice of their admission.


IMMIGRATION VISA ISSUES   [Return to Subject List]

DO CANADIAN CITIZENS NEED A STUDENT VISA TO STUDY AT OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY?

Citizens of Canada are not required to obtain a U.S. visa at an Embassy or Consulate, to enter the United States. However, an officer of U.S. Immigration, and Customs Enforcement will inspect your visa documents either at a pre-inspection site in Canada or upon entry to the U.S. You must have with you proof of Canadian citizenship, proof of admission to The Ohio State University, your Ohio State Certificate of Eligibility Form I-20, or DS2019 and proof of financial support. Namely, the bank statement; Fellowship, sponsorship, or letter granting you an associateship, that is listed on your I-20/DS2019 as your source of funding. It is imperative that you enter the U.S. as a "student" rather than a "tourist."

HOW DO I ASK AN URGENT IMMIGRATION QUESTION?

You should contact the International Students and Scholars Office as they have many counselors on staff, whose job it is to answer immigration questions. The Graduate Admissions Office does not answer immigration related inquiries. If you want to contact International Students and Scholars Office, the e-mail address is: iss@oia.osu.edu

HOW DO I TRANSFER MY I-20 FROM ANOTHER UNIVERSITY TO OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY?

The website of the International Students and Scholars Office http://oia.osu.edu/ provides information on this topic. Their e-mail address is iss@oia.osu.edu

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE VISA INTERVIEW AT THE U.S. EMBASSY?

The Office of International Affairs; International Students and Scholars Office has excellent information for new and prospective students regarding how to obtain a student visa for study in the United States. Go to http://oia.osu.edu/ for more information.


LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION.   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I CORRECT A RECOMMENDER'S INFORMATION?

To send a reminder email to your recommender, correct a recommender's information, or check the status of your letters of reference, go to https://www.applyweb.com/apply/osu/grad_files/menu.html, under "Manage your Account", select "Review Your Activity." From here you may access your application to resend the email to your recommenders or make corrections. Make sure that your recommenders are looking for the email. It could get caught in their spam or junk mail filter. Use the "Edit recommender" feature to update the recommender's information. A new message is automatically sent when you save the change to the recommender's email address.
Important to note: If a recommender has already noted online they "accept" your request for a letter, it is no longer possible for you to make any edits.



AFTER YOU ARE ADMITTED [Return to top of page]

| Accept/Decline/Defer Admission | Admissions Process | Arrival Information | Bring Family Members | Financial Documents | Housing | Immigration Visa Issues | Miscellaneous | Registration/Orientation |



ACCEPT/DECLINE/DEFER ADMISSION   [Return to Subject List]

HOW CAN I DEFER MY ADMISSION TO A FUTURE TERM?

1) If your application was approved for admission, any request to change your admission to a different term must be approved by your graduate program. If approved, the graduate program office will notify the Graduate Admissions Office. For graduate program contact information: http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gri.asp

2) If your application was not completed in time for your desired term of admission, or was not approved for admission, it is necessary to submit a new on-line application and fee to be considered for a future term. To reapply, visit the website: http://gradapply.osu.edu.

The Graduate Admissions Office typically maintains transcripts and test scores received for one year; therefore, it may not be necessary to re-submit all application materials. Even so, with any re-application, it is still the applicant's responsibility to confirm with Graduate Admissions and their intended Graduate Program(s) whether application materials previously submitted are still available and current.

HOW DO I ACCEPT MY OFFER OF ADMISSION?

1. Activate your Ohio State username. If you have not already done so, visit http://my.osu.edu to activate your Ohio State Username.

2. Accept your admission

For programs not requiring a tuition deposit, accept or decline your admission on-line by clicking the “Application Status” link at www.osu.edu/futurestudents.

For programs requiring a tuition deposit, submit a check or money order for the indicated amount along with your completed Acceptance Statement by the due date indicated. Return the statement and check in the enclosed window envelope. Please do not return a photocopied statement as this cannot be processed. Be sure the Admissions address on the Acceptance Statement shows through the window.

Please Note; You will not be able to register for classes if you do not accept your admission.

HOW DO I DECLINE AN OFFER OF ADMISSION?

1. Activate your Ohio State Username:
If you have not already done so, visit http://my.osu.edu to activate your Ohio State Username.

2. Decline your admission:

For programs not requiring a tuition deposit, decline your admission on-line at http://appstatus.osu.edu

For programs requiring a tuition deposit, return the statement indicating your intent to decline in the enclosed window envelope. Please do not return a photocopied statement as this cannot be processed. Be sure the Admissions address on the Acceptance Statement shows through the window.

IS MY ADMISSION STILL VALID IF I RETURN THE ACCEPTANCE STATEMENT AFTER THE DEADLINE PRINTED ON THE FORM?

The Graduate Admissions Office will not rescind your admission if we receive your Ohio State Acceptance Statement after the deadline printed on the form. Call your graduate program to know if your admission is still valid.

This does not extend to offers of financial aid, such as University Fellowships or associateships. If you were offered an associateship from your graduate program or a Fellowship from the University, it is very important to adhere to the deadlines written in the offer letter. We recommend that you keep in close contact with your graduate program regarding the acceptance of financial aid offers.

You cannot register for classes until you have formally accepted your admission.

WHAT IS A "PROVISION?"

Students admitted as regular, special, and conditional may also be held in provisional status for official transcripts and/or degree statement(s) that were not received at the time of admission. Provisional documents are listed in the Admission Notice and are to be submitted by the first day of the first term of enrollment. If the provision has not been satisfied by the 15th day of the first term, a provisional warning email is sent to the student. A hold will be placed on the student's record during the sixth week of the term that will inhibit further registration if the provision is not satisfied by that time.


ADMISSIONS PROCESS..   [Return to Subject List]

HOW LONG IS AN ADMISSION VALID?

If you are admitted for a quarter, you must attend and pay fees that specific quarter, or your admission is canceled.

In some instances your admission may be defered. Please consult your graduate program for permission to defer your admission to a future term.



ARRIVAL INFORMATION   [Return to Subject List]

HOW CAN I ARRANGE A HOMESTAY OR AIRPORT PICK UP?

Ohio State University has nearly 1,000 student organizations. In some cases someone from your country’s student organization, an international or religious student organization, may be able to arrange temporary housing for your first night. Contact your organization to see if they might be able to help you. (http://www.ohiounion.osu.edu/studentorgs/orgs.asp)

In the event that no ethnic, international or religious student organization can provide airport pick-up or temporary housing, please refer to the Office of International Student and Scholar website at http://oia.osu.edu/international-students/pre-arrival-information.html

HOW DO I ARRANGE AIRPORT PICK-UP?

As tens of thousands of students attend Ohio State University, we do not offer an airport pickup service. It is very easy, however, to reach campus from the airport by taxi or by the public bus system (COTA http://www.cota.com/ ).The COTA bus route is #052. The International Students and Scholars Office http://oia.osu.edu/ offers advice on how to get to campus from the airport.

SHOULD I BRING HEALTH/MEDICAL RECORDS WITH ME?

If you are an international student, it is a good idea to bring a record of your immunizations. During your orientation program at the International Students and Scholars Office, there is a scheduled international health screening at the Wilce Student Health Center. The website of the International Students and Scholars Office provides information on this topic http://oia.osu.edu/international-students.html The e-mail address is iss@oia.osu.edu

WHAT ARE SOME HOTELS IN THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY AREA?

There are many hotels in the Ohio State University area. http://oia.osu.edu/life-at-ohio-state/living-in-columbus/temporary-housing.html

Most hotels are a 30-45 minute walk to the OSU campus on busy streets with limited sidewalks. Van service is listed if it is available. Inquire about any special rates offered to Ohio State students.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I ARRIVE ON CAMPUS?

Domestic students are advised to report to their Graduate Program Office upon arrival. Many graduate programs have an orientation program. There is also a general orientation given at the Graduate School each Fall Quarter. See http://www.gradsch.osu.edu/ for details. If you plan to live on-campus, please be aware that residence hall space fills up quickly, so you should complete arrangements for on-campus housing before arrival in Columbus. The office of Housing may be reached at (614)292-8266. Off-Campus Housing may be reached at (614)292-0100. http://offcampus.osu.edu

International students who arrive in Columbus on a weekday between 8am and 5pm, should first come to the International Students and Scholars Office http://oia.osu.edu/ It is located on the first floor of Oxley Hall, 1712 Neil Ave. Columbus, OH. ISS is open Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm, except during the summer when the hours are 7:30am - 4:30pm


BRING FAMILY MEMBERS   [Return to Subject List]

HOW CAN I GET F-2 VISAS FOR MY SPOUSE AND CHILDREN TO ACCOMPANY ME TO THE UNITED STATES?

If you were reccomended for admission, all you have to do is send the Graduate Admissions Office evidence of adequate funding for the living expenses and health insurance of your dependent(s), we will issue dependent I-20's for your family. See http://admissions.osu.edu/apps/pdfs/ig-affad.pdf

The U.S. embassy will issue F-2 visas to your spouse and children if you present the dependent form I-20 and proof of financial support for your family.


FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I COMPLETE THE AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT FORM?

If you were academically admitted, you should have received the affidavit form.

1. Fill out the biographical information on the first page. Please include your OSU Student ID number. Include the biographical information of all family members who will accompany you to the United States. In order to make accurate visa documents, we need passport copies for every family member.


2. Find your budget amount on the attached International Graduate Student Budget


3. Sponsors must promise to provide at least the estimated budget amount, every year for the duration of your studies at Ohio State.
To indicate full support, simply check the box that reads "Check here if you will provide full financial support for the applicant’s educational and living expenses for the entire length of study at Ohio State." Under the signatures in the "Affidavit of Financial Certification" section.

If you have multiple sponsors they must promise to provide a total of two years of funding for a masters program or three years of funding for a PhD program. You or your sponsor must write how much they are prepared to annually provide in the section titled "Sponsorship Information."


4. You and all sponsors must sign and date the form in English.

5. After completing the form, attach bank statements and please email it to the attention of "Financial Review", at gradadmissions@osu.edu


Please Note: The Affidavit of Support form must be signed by whomsoever is providing a bank statement. If you have multiple sponsors, each sponsor needs to provide a set of financial documents and sign and date the Affidavit of Support form. Reviewers will be checking to see if your funder has promised either "Full Support" or at least 2 years of support for a masters or at least 3 years of promised support for a PhD degree. However, your certified bank statement only needs to contain the equivalent of one year's estimated budget amount. In short unless the reviews see one year's funds on deposit and a promise of support for all years, you cannot be admitted.

Additional clarifications include:
-The date of financial support documents must be dated no more than one year prior to the date that classes begin.
-The available funding must be liquid; i.e., property titles, statements from chartered accountants, or salary statements are not accepted documentation.
-A Government or Sponsoring Agency (i.e., organization, institution, or employer) must provide the following information on a sponsorship letter:
• Are they paying all tuition and fees? How much?
• Are they covering your living expenses? How much?
• How long is your sponsorship valid?
• Will the sponsor be willing to provide extra support for dependent(s) or English preparation courses, if applicable? If so,how much?

I RECEIVED AN EMAIL INFORMING ME I WAS ADMITTED AND ASKING ME FOR FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS? WHAT DO I SEND?

An email was or will be sent to you containing a blank Affidavit of Support form for you to complete and return along with a bank statement or sponsor letter. The Affidavit of Support is a signed promise by a person(s) or sponsor to support you throughout the duration of your studies and the bank statement is proof of funds available to cover the cost of the first year of your program's academic and living expenses at Ohio State(http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/IGcosts.htm). Financial documents should be faxed to the attention of Financial Review at (614) 247-1886.

Attached to the email will be information on how much it costs to live and pay tuition at Ohio State for one year. The bank statement you submit should contain the equivalent to your estimated costs for one year of study.

I RECEIVED AN EMAIL TELLING ME TO SEND SUPPORTING FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS. WHERE DO I SEND FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS?

The fastest methods to submit financial documents are via e-mail or fax.

*Fax your documents to (614)247-1886 attention Financial Review. Or you may mail them to the following addresses:

REGULAR POSTAL MAIL:
Graduate Admissions Office
The Ohio State University
PO Box 182083
Columbus, OH 43218-2083

SPECIAL DELIVERY/EXPRESS MAIL:
Graduate Admissions Office
SAS Building
281 West Lane Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43210-1132
U.S.A.

*You can e-mail scanned financial documents to Graduate Admissions at gradadmissions@osu.edu.

WHAT ARE INTERNATIONALS REQUIRED TO SEND IF THEY ARE RECOMMENDED FOR ADMISSION, BUT NOT FUNDED BY OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY?

We need to receive a bank statement and an Ohio State affidavit of support form. An email will be sent to you containing a blank Affidavit of Support form which should be completed and returned,along with, a bank statement or sponsor letter. Sponsors must pledge to support a student throughout the duration of your studies. The bank statement or sponsor letter must contain or indicate support enough to cover the cost of the first year of your program's academic and living expenses at The Ohio State University. Please note: Both the Affidavit of Support and bank statement must be in the same person's name. The affidavit must be dated and signed by both the student and sponsor(s). Financial documents can be sent to gradadmissions@osu.edu


HOUSING   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I APPLY FOR ON-CAMPUS HOUSING?

To apply for graduate student university housing, visit http://housing.osu.edu/gradpro.asp, to complete an online application. Please be advised, all who apply are not guaranteed a space. After completing the application, the Housing Office then emails housing lease offers according to when students apply until all spaces are filled. The earlier the application, the greater chance a space will be available. Offers typically are sent several months before your first term begins.

HOW DO I CONTACT THE HOUSING OFFICE?

Housing information can be obtained by contacting the Office of Residence and Dining Halls at their web site. http://housing.osu.edu

HOW DO I GET INFORMATION ON FINDING AN APARTMENT OR ROOMMATE?

The Office of Off-Campus Student Housing exists to provide services and information to students of the Ohio State University who do not reside in the campus residence halls. Among other services, this office provides listings of apartments for rent on their website.

Office of Off-Campus Student Services
The Ohio State University
3106 Ohio Union
1739 N High St
Columbus, OH 43210
Tel. 614/292-0100; FAX 614/292-4786
website address: http://offcampus.osu.edu
Email address: ocss@studentlife.osu.edu

Clubs are another way to find a roommate or apartment. Nationality clubs may be found on the International Students and Scholars Office Web site http://oia.osu.edu/pdf/IntlOrgs.pdf, or go to the Ohio Union Student Organization web site http://ohiounion.osu.edu/get_involved/student_organizations to connect with other groups on campus.


IMMIGRATION VISA ISSUES.   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I PAY THE SEVIS FEE?

Please visit the Office of International Affairs website at http://oia.osu.edu/international-students/visa-information/sevis-fee.html, for information on paying the SEVIS Fee.

WHEN DO I RECEIVE A VISA DOCUMENT AND NOTICE OF ADMISSION?

If your graduate program has not informed the Graduate Admissions Office that you will receive funding, you will be sent an email message. This email informs students that they have been academically admitted; however to finalize admission, it is necessary to send documents proving adequate financial resources to attend The Ohio State university. NOTE: Sometimes these emails are sent by the Graduate Admissions Office before graduate programs conclude their funding decisions. Consequently before sending financial documents, it is advisable to check your funding status with your graduate program.

The Graduate Admissions Office will then compare your bank documents, sponsor letter, or university funding against the estimated budget. (http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/IGcosts.htm) to determine whether you have enough funding to pay living expenses and tuition at Ohio State as required by U.S. Law. If your documents pass financial review, the form I-20 or DS-2019 will be issued. If they do not pass financial review, you will be notified to provide additional proof of funding.


MISCELLANEOUS   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I ESTABLISH RESIDENCY IN THE STATE OF OHIO?

Please contact the Student Service Center for residency rules. Residency is explained at the University Registrar's site, http://registrar.osu.edu

HOW DO I GET GRADUATE TRANSFER CREDIT FROM ANOTHER INSTITUTION?

The program to which you are admitted will determine if your previous graduate level coursework will apply to your program of study at Ohio State University. The Graduate Admissions Office does not make that determination. Likewise, we do not do course-by-course evaluations of graduate level courses.

The Request for Transfer of Graduate Credit form which can be found online at http://www.gradsch.ohio-state.edu/Depo/PDF/TransferCredit.pdf. The form requires a signature from your Graduate Studies Committee Chairperson in your graduate program. Registration Services will review the request to ensure that the proposed coursework is graduate-level, that the student was in a graduate program when the coursework was taken, and that the grade earned was at least a B.

MUST I PURCHASE OSU HEALTH INSURANCE?

Health care costs in the United States are very expensive. For this reason, it is mandatory that international students and their families carry health insurance. For further information about health insurance plans, please visit the Student Health Center website. http://shi.osu.edu


REGISTRATION/ORIENTATION   [Return to Subject List]

HOW DO I REGISTER FOR CLASSES?

All newly admitted Graduate Students must accept their offer of admission before registering. There are two ways to accept your admission. Some programs send an acceptance fee statement with your notice of admission, which requires a tuition deposit or acceptance fee. Most graduate students are not assessed a fee and they can accept their admission online at appstatus.osu.edu. To accept, click on the Accept/Decline link and follow the instructions. You will be assigned an enrollment appointment some time after you accept online or after the receipt of your acceptance fee and statement. Students must contact their graduate program office or advisor to know for which classes to register. Often Graduate Programs have a "Handbook" online that lists all courses required in a specific program or track. The Graduate School can answer many questions about the actual registration process. This "New Student To Do list" contains very useful information about registration; http://www.gradsch.ohio-state.edu/Depo/PDF/New_To_Do.pdf Contact information for the Graduate School is as follows; The Ohio State University Graduate School, 247 University Hall, 230 N. Oval Mall, Columbus OH 43210 Phone: (614) 292-6031, Fax: (614) 292-3656


Upon arrival, international students must go to the International Students and Scholars Office to check-in and receive orientation. The International Students and Scholars Office is located on the first floor of Oxley Hall, 1712 Neil Ave. and is open Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm, except during the summer when the hours are 7:30am - 4:30pm.

I WAS PROVISIONALLY ADMITTED, MAY I BRING IN MY DOCUMENTS AND HAVE THE GRADUATE ADMISSIONS OFFICE STAFF MAKE COPIES OF THE NEEDED DOCUMENTS ?

No. (Unless you studied abroad, and have one of a kind documents). We do not make photocopies of official documents. We consider documents to be official if they are sent to us directly by the issuing institution and arrive in our office in a sealed envelope. If you were provisionally admitted, you must provide official certified, or attested copies of all marksheets, graduation certificates, diplomas or degree certificates needed to fulfill the provision of your admission.
We consider a transcript to be official if it is sent by the applicant in the envelope sealed by the issuing institution. Transcript envelopes that show any signs of tampering will not be considered official. Official documents have either a colored stamp or raised seal affixed to them. When the policy of the institution prohibits issuing the transcripts directly to another institution, a photocopy of the original document certified by an official of that educational institution, an embassy office, the Ministry of Education, or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs may be submitted for review. If you are in possession of the only original transcript your institution issues, you may submit a certified photocopy of that document for our review. Please note you will be required to present the original document prior to enrollment.
We strongly recommend that you obtain copies of the needed documents before leaving your country. If you are provisional for a U.S. final degree confirmation, or other transcript from a U.S. school, simply order a transcript to be sent to us directly from the Registrar's Office of your previous institution.
Documents submitted to the Graduate Admissions Office in support of a graduate application may not be returned or forwarded to another institution. Application documents are destroyed annually therefore do not send us original one-of-a-kind documents.

We strongly reccomend that you obtain copies of the needed documents before leaving your country. If you are provisional for a U.S. final degree confirmation, or other transcript from a U.S. school, simply order a transcript to be sent to us directly from the Registrar's Office of your previous institution.

Documents submitted to the Graduate Admissions Office in support of a graduate application may not be returned or forwarded to another institution. Application documents are destroyed annually.

WHERE CAN I FIND A LIST OF WHICH COURSES ARE BEING OFFERED AT OHIO STATE?

The Ohio State University's course offerings list and master schedule can be found on the website of the University Registrar. http://registrar.osu.edu/courses/index.asp

WHY CAN'T I REGISTER? I HAVE ACCEPTED MY ADMISSION.

Enrollment windows open several months before a quarter begins, but you cannot register until several days after you have accepted admission depending on the timing of your acceptance.



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