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Last Updated: Aug 07, 2024, 10:49 AM

Thank you for considering Southern Illinois University for your graduate education. We are excited to help you embark on this transformative journey and support you in achieving your academic and professional aspirations.

If you are applying to a degree program, please choose your major carefully from the list of programs, as some departments offer more than one degree at the Master's level. All application materials must be submitted directly to your department. You may apply to multiple programs but must submit separate applications, application fees, and sets of required paperwork to each program.

While the Graduate School in general does not have an application deadline, many departments do. Please contact your department directly for application deadlines and to see if applications are only accepted for certain semesters.

Each department sets their own admission requirements. Please contact your department directly for assistance. Once you are enrolled as a graduate student, you are required to maintain an overall "B" average (3.0) in your graduate credit coursework to remain in good academic standing.

All departments require a $65 nonrefundable application fee. This must be paid by credit card at the time you submit the online application. The application fee is not waivable.

Before beginning the application process:

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Step-by-step guide detailing the graduate admissions process

1. Research Programs

Explore the various graduate programs offered at Southern Illinois University Carbondale to find the one that aligns with your academic and career goals.

2. Review Admissions Requirements

Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for the program you are interested in, including GPA, test scores (such as GRE or GMAT), letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and any additional materials.

3. Submit Your Application

Complete the online application through the Graduate School's website. Provide accurate and complete information, including your personal details, academic history, and contact information.

4. Pay the Application Fee

All departments require a $65 nonrefundable application fee. This must be paid by credit card at the time you submit the online application. The application fee is not waivable.

 

5. Transcripts

Request official transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended. Ensure that they are sent directly to the Graduate School at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

What is an “official” transcript or test GRE score?

Official means the transcript is sent directly from the registrar of your school to the SIU Registrar's Office at trnscrpt@siu.edu or to the Graduate School at gradschl@siu.edu.  We will accept an electronic transcript, or a hard copy can be mailed to us. We will accept an original transcript delivered in the original sealed, never-opened envelope from the institution only as official.

Official transcripts are required for a newly admitted student to register for classes in the 2nd term. Prior to 1st term registration, an “in progress” or “partial” official degree transcript is required from the Registrar's Office. Prior to 2nd term registration, a  final official transcript showing degree conferred is required from the Registrar's Office. We may need one or more official undergraduate transfer transcripts as well – this additional requirement would be stated in the conditions of admission in your welcome email.

Unofficial transcripts are used by the Graduate School to calculate your GPA. Transcripts you upload to your application are considered unofficial.  

SIU Carbondale students do not have to provide official SIU Carbondale transcripts. We review official SIU Carbondale transcripts through our secure record system. Please upload an unofficial copy of your SIU Carbondale transcript to your application for faster processing.

6. Test Scores

If required by your chosen program, send official test scores (such as GRE or GMAT) directly to the Graduate School.

Official GRE scores are scores that are sent directly from ETS to the academic program or to the Graduate School. Official GRE scores are REQUIRED before admission to be considered for the Alternative High Acheiver Tuition Rate. For more information on the rate, please visit the High Achievers Alternate Tuition Rate webpage.

7. Letters of Recommendation

Request letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic abilities and potential for success in your chosen program. Provide the necessary contact information of your recommenders through the online application system.

8. Statement of Purpose

Write a compelling statement of purpose that describes your academic background, research interests, career objectives, and how the graduate program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale will help you achieve those goals.

9. Application Status

Monitor the online application portal to track the status of your application. Ensure that all required materials have been received.

10. Admissions Decision

Once the admissions committee reviews your application, you will receive an official admissions decision via email or postal mail. This decision may include admission offers, conditional offers, or denial.

11. Acceptance and Enrollment

If accepted, carefully review the admission offer, including deadlines, funding opportunities, and any conditions or requirements. Accept the offer by the specified deadline to secure your spot in the program.

12. Submit Required Documents/Forms

Complete any additional forms or submit any required documentation, such as an official enrollment confirmation or immunization records, as specified by the Graduate School.

13. Financial Aid and Assistantships

If you are interested in financial aid or graduate assistantship opportunities, explore and apply for those options through the Financial Aid Office and your specific graduate program.

14. Orientation and Advising

Attend orientation sessions and meet with your academic advisor to plan your course schedule and discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

15. Enroll and Begin Your Graduate Studies

Congratulations! Complete the enrollment process by registering for classes and prepare to embark on your exciting journey as a graduate student at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Minimum Requirements

You must meet minimum general Graduate School requirements to be eligible to be considered for admission by a department. To be eligible to be considered for admission to a graduate program, the following minimum GPA's are required:

For admission to a Master's program:

  • 2.7 (on a 4.0 grading scale) on approximately the last two years of your Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum GPA of 3.00 on all previous graduate coursework

For admission to a Ph.D. program:

  • 3.00 on all previous graduate level coursework

Processing times vary greatly according to department. For some programs, you may need to apply 8-10 months in advance, while others may admit you in 1-2 months. To be safe, students should apply as early as possible.

Non-Declared Admission

Any student not meeting the above minimum GPA requirements, please see Non-Declared Admissions. Once you have earned at least 9 semester hours of graded graduate coursework with a "B" average, you are then eligible to apply for admission into a degree seeking program of study.

Note: It is important to follow the instructions provided by the Graduate School and your specific program regarding application deadlines, required materials, and any additional steps or requirements.

If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to the Graduate School or your program's admission office for personalized guidance.

Good luck with your application and future studies at Southern Illinois University Carbondale!