International Admission Process
Global Cowboys Start Here
At Oklahoma State University, international graduate students join a supportive academic community with access to nationally recognized programs, experienced faculty, and resources designed to help them succeed. This page will guide you through the application process, English proficiency requirements, financial documentation, and next steps after admission.
Supporting Your Journey
The Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) supports OSU’s international community by helping students and scholars understand and comply with federal regulations, providing guidance on their academic and personal development, and promoting cultural exchange and engagement across campus and in the Stillwater community.
Application Steps
Review the admissions requirements for your desired program
Each program determines its own admission requirements. Some have specific requirements for international students in addition to the Graduate College’s requirements. Please review the program requirements carefully.
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Complete any pre-qualifying exams or coursework
Among other requirements, some programs require submission of a test score, such as the GRE, GMAT, or MAT (Miller’s Analogy Test). It is important that you contact the program about their admission requirements to determine which tests are required. All reports are shared with any program to which you apply.
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Submit evidence of your English proficiency
International applicants must submit evidence of English proficiency via completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Duolingo English Test (DET), or Pearson Test of English (PTE). Scores are valid for two years.
Some graduate programs may require a score above the minimum listed or may not accept all tests listed below; contact your program of interest for more information.
Minimum Required Scores:
- TOEFL iBT: 79
- Beginning January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT will use a new scoring scale. The new minimum score for admission is 4.0. Valid scores from the previous scoring scale will still be accepted.
- IELTS Academic: 6.5
- Duolingo English Test: 115
- Pearson Test of English: 53
- TOEFL iBT: 79
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Gather your supporting documents
Every program requires official transcripts, and many also ask for items like letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, writing samples, or a résumé/CV.
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Complete the online application
Upload all required documents to the correct sections of the application system. Before submitting, review your application to make sure your information is accurate and complete. Missing or incorrect materials may delay review.
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Pay the application fee
A $75 fee is required for international student applications. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Payment is made in the application system using an electronic check or credit/debit card. Checks or money orders mailed to our office are not acceptable.
Fee waivers are not available to international students, except to current OSU students or alumni, who are eligible for a single application fee waiver.
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Check your application status
After submitting your application, log in regularly to check your application status.
Respond promptly to any requests for missing materials or additional information. Your graduate program will review your application and make an admission recommendation. The Graduate College will complete the final admission review.
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Submit financial documentation for I-20 or DS-2019 processing
If you plan to study at OSU using an F-1 or J-1 visa, you must submit the Confirmation of Financial Resources and supporting financial documentation.
Your application may be reviewed before this documentation is submitted. However, after admission, OSU cannot complete the I-20 or DS-2019 process until the required financial documentation is received and approved. Submitting these materials early can help prevent delays.
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Complete admitted student steps
Once admitted, review your admission information and complete the required next steps for international students.
This may include accepting your admission offer, completing the international student check-in, preparing immigration documents, connecting with your advisor, and enrolling in classes.
We’re here to help
Contact the Graduate College with any questions about the admissions process. We will make every effort to respond as quickly as possible. Most emails are answered within 24 hours of receipt. Program-specific questions should be directed to the relevant graduate program.
Telephone: 405-744-6368
Email: grad-i@okstate.edu