International Students

Application Requirements

We know that applying to a school as an international student can be complex and confusing. Students with questions are welcome to email us at graduate.admissions@rochester.edu, or schedule an appointment with an admissions representative.

All applicants must submit the following:

  • A statement of purpose
  • CV or resume
  • Transcripts from any previous institution attended
  • Letters of recommendation

The program you are applying to may have additional requirements. You can visit the programs application page for more program specific information.

Any materials not in English must include a professionally transcribed English translation.

English Translations

If your transcript is not in English, you must have your transcript professionally translated. You must have both the translation, and your original transcript uploaded under the transcript section of your application. The translation must also state that it is an accredited translation.

Please send all documents and letters in support of your application in English. If necessary, you can send supporting materials in original formats supplemented by English translations.

English Proficiency Test

All international students whose native language is not English are required to provide proof of English language proficiency through the submission of official test scores from one of the following exams. Scores more than two years old from the application deadline are not valid.

The University accepts scores from:

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL or TOEFL iBT Home Edition
  • Duolingo

You can have the testing center send your IELTS scores either electronically or have them mailed directly to our institution. Please check with your local testing center for how your scores can be sent.

To electronically send your results select University of Rochester Graduate Studies – AS&E as the university.

To physically send in IELTS scores please use the following address:

University of Rochester
Graduate Studies – AS&E
500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd
P.O. Box 270401
Rochester NY 14627

TOEFL scores can be submitted using the code 2928 (a department code is not necessary).

Duolingo scores can be sent directly to the University of Rochester at no cost.

Waiver Policy

The English proficiency test requirement is waived for citizens of the following countries whose native language is English:

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Commonwealth Caribbean Nations
  • Ghana
  • Ireland
  • Kenya
  • Liberia
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • Singapore
  • South Africa
  • Uganda
  • United Kingdom
  • Virgin Islands

The requirement may also be waived if a student has completed at least three years of full time and in-person postsecondary study in one of the countries listed above or the United States. We reserve the right to require further demonstration of English proficiency, even if you have received your degree from one of the above-mentioned countries.

If you would like to be granted a waiver for these exams, please email graduate.admissions@rochester.edu.

Three Year Degrees

If you are applying with a three-year degree from a foreign institution, you will need to provide a WES evaluation stating that the degree you were awarded is equivalent to a US four-year bachelor's degree.

During the application process you can upload your unofficial WES certification in the transcript section.

Admitted students need to request WES to send their evaluation to our University at the below address:

University of Rochester
Graduate Studies AS&E
500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd
P.O. Box 270401
Rochester, NY 14627

Application Review Process

Applications are reviewed by each department after the program’s application deadline has passed. The review process is holistic, meaning that all components of your application are considered. Admission decisions are typically released between February and March, though some may be issued later depending on the program.

See our Frequently Asked Questions page for more information on the graduate admissions process.

Non-Discrimination Policy

The University of Rochester provides equal opportunity in admissions and student aid regardless of sex, age, race, color, creed, disability, sexual orientation, and national or ethnic origin. Further, the University complies with all applicable nondiscrimination laws.

Questions on compliance should be directed to the school or department and/or to the University’s Intercessor, University of Rochester, Box 270039, Rochester, NY 14627-0039. Phone: 585-275-9125. You can also find more information on the University of Rochester’s policy online.