Application Deadline-Fall 2021 -NOON March 5, 2021
The application is completely online, including the submission of transcripts, resume, interview, etc. To complete the application, you will need to upload the following documents (meaning you will need electronic/digital copies before you start the application):
–Electronic copy/scan of your passport (Just the picture page- NOT the entire passport. If you do not have a passport, you should apply for one ASAP- that means TODAY as you will need to start the visa application soon after learning of your admission.)
–Electronic Copy of your transcript which you can order online here Transcripts (http://arr.usc.edu/services/transcripts/etranscriptrequests.html ) You should have the transcript e-mailed to your USC e-mail address so that you have a copy to upload. DO NOT send it to the IEP office.
–Electronic copy of your Resume- We only require a resume- no cover letter is required.
–Letter of Recommendation (which MUST be on company/school letterhead/stationary), and can be scanned and uploaded by the applicant to the application website OR e-mailed directly to the International Programs Office. You do NOT need to submit a recommendation from an academic source (you can have an employer/supervisor submit the letter), but it cannot be a family member, and should be someone whom you have been affiliated with (work, school, volunteer) within the past 2-years and who can speak about your abilities and character.
If your recommender cannot or does not wish to provide you with a copy of the letter, they may e-mail the letter to uginternational@marshall.usc.edu. Uploading them as part of your application is the preferred manner. Only 1 letter is required and will be accepted. Letters can be addressed to IEP Selection Committee. Letters are due no later than 5:00 pm March 5, 2021.
-Essays As part of the application you need to complete 3 essays. Each essay should be 1000 words. You will want to write them ahead of time and cut-and-paste them into the application. The prompts are:
Essay 1: In 1000 words or less, describe why you chose your top three host schools focusing on your academic, professional, and personal goals. You should be as detailed as possible, addressing all schools equally. Examples for choosing your top three schools could be (but not limited to): school culture, coursework abroad, teaching styles, extracurricular opportunities, foreign language courses, networking/career opportunities, etc
Essay 2: How have you prepared for your program abroad? What makes you an ideal candidate for the program(s) you selected?
Essay 3: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our global society in which we have never before experienced in our lifetime. Please discuss how the pandemic has affected you and also what you have learned through those experiences, and how they will inform/impact your semester abroad?
-Interview You will need to also complete a mandatory interview. You will be e-mailed instructions on completing an online interview after the application deadline on March 5, 2021.
Please note: There will be a MANDATORY Orientation for all applicants held on March 11, 2021 8:00-10:00 pm (Pacific time). A zoom link will be sent to all applicants. Please be sure to make the proper arrangements to attend.
Please visit our Covid-19 FAQ page HERE
If you have any questions not answered in the information above, please contact the Undergraduate International Exchange Program via email at uginternational@marshall.usc.edu.