Washington University has students representing all 50 U.S. states and more than 85 countries around the world. International students considering application to Washington University for graduate study should have a general familiarity with academic practices and university customs in the United States. All international students are required to present evidence of their ability to support themselves financially during graduate study.

International students whose native language is not English must submit score reports from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or other documentation of English language skills. Information on this test is available from the ETS website. The test should be taken in time for results to reach Washington University directly from ETS before the application deadline.

The Office for International Students and Scholars at the university serves as an excellent resource for newly admitted students.

University-wide Graduate Student Groups

Washington University houses the McDonnell International Scholars Program, which recruits outstanding graduates of partner institutions from around the world for Ph.D. or professional degree programs at Washington University in St. Louis. These scholars have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, experience the cultural and political life of America, learn about other societies, and meet major figures from business, government, academia, and the nonprofit sector.

Admitted Students

Paperwork for admitted international students is handled jointly by the program to which application is made, the Graduate School, and the University’s Office for International Students and Scholars.