Frequently Asked Questions
Is the application for Graduate admission different from the application for undergraduate admission at Utah State University?
Yes, when you apply online, be sure to select "Graduate School" in the drop-down box. Click here to learn how to apply online.
Can the application fee be waived or deferred until I arrive at Utah State University?
No, we will not process or evaluate your application in any way until the $55 application fee is paid. There are no exceptions to this policy.
Can I pay the application fee by credit card?
Yes, we accept VISA, MasterCard, and Discover credit card payments for the application fee. You will be prompted to pay when you complete your online application. You'll need to provide the card type, number, expiration month and year, and the name on the card.
How can I check the status of my application?
You can check the status of your application by logging on to Banner using the same A number and pin number you used to apply. Then you can open your completed application and view its current status.
When your application is complete, it will be forwarded to the academic department for evaluation. Some departments may require additional credentials. You will need to check with the department to which you are applying for more information. Different departments also have different evaluations processes. We cannot predict how long the evaluation will take. Based on the recommendation of the academic department, an official letter of admission or denial will be mailed to you from the dean of the School of Graduate Studies.
As an international student, how much money should I bring when I come to Utah State University?
International students are required to verify that they have adequate funding available for graduate studies before they can apply for a student visa (see table on expenses). It is recommended that a student bring enough money to pay the expenses for at least the first semester. After arrival, a checking account can be opened so various expenses can be paid conveniently and safely.
Keep in mind that the cost of living in Logan, Utah, is approximately 12% below the national average. Use the Cost of Living calculator to compare the costs between cities in America.
How can I get an assistantship?
Graduate assistantships and scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis by the individual academic departments. After admission, you should contact the department to which you have been admitted, to apply for an assistantship.
If I send my grades, my test scores, and a resume showing my experience, will you tell me if I can be admitted to Utah State University?
We do not have a preadmission process. Your admissibility cannot be evaluated by the academic department until a complete application package is received. We cannot estimate your chances of admission or receiving a graduate assistantship. Your completed application will be forwarded to the academic department for evaluation and you will be notified in writing as soon as a decision is made.
What is the deadline for applications?
While many departments have specific application deadlines, other departments admit students throughout the year. The time it takes to process an application is primarily dependent on the speed with which the School of Graduate Studies receives letters of recommendation, transcripts, and test scores. In some cases, this process may take 6-8 weeks. Applicants should plan accordingly.
As soon as an application is complete, a recommendation is made by the appropriate department to the dean of the School of Graduate Studies, who must approve all admissions. No notification of acceptance or rejection other than that from the dean of the School of Graduate Studies is official.
Can I apply online?
Yes, click here to learn how to apply now.
What is the institutional code for the GRE, GMAT, and TOEFL?
4857 is the institutional code we have been assigned by Educational Testing Services. The institutional code and the department code will be provided for you at the testing site when you take the examination.
I have obtained a 3-year bachelor's degree. Can I apply for graduate study at Utah State University?
Maybe. Please contact the School of Graduate Studies directly about the possibilities. Currently with additional credentials outlined in the Bologna Agreement, Utah State may consider your degree sufficient to meet our requirements. There are other criteria that may be considered in addition to the 3-year degree. If the Graduate School should determine that course taken for the 3-year degree are insufficient to meet the minimum requirements, you may be required to take additional coursework.
How long will I have to complete my degree and how long will my coursework be valid?
A master's degree must be completed within 6 years of the time of admission.
A doctoral degree must be completed within 8 years of the time of admission.
Coursework for both degrees is valid for 8 years. Please refer to the General Catalog for revalidation of coursework that is beyond the 8-year time limit. Refer to the Degree Requirements for detailed information.