International Students

Master of Science in Business Analytics

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International Students 

The MS in Business Analytics program has many international students. As a STEM-certified program, our international students benefit from the 24-month STEM extension of post-completion OPT, increasing their total work authorization eligibility to up to 36 months.

USC's Office of International Services

OIS is the primary resource for USC's international students. This office has the most updated information regarding visas, events specifically for international students, and employment. They also have great information on pre-arrival, arrival, and life in Los Angeles! All new students should sign up for their newsletter.

USC's Graduate Admissions Office

The Graduate Admissions Office website, https://gradadm.usc.edu/, is an amazing resource for international applicants and students to help address frequently asked questions and concerns. Visit their FAQ page for international students!

International Student FAQs

Admissions & Eligibility

Who is considered an international applicant?

All applicants that are not United States nationals, and will be entering, or have already entered, the United States with an F-1 or J-1 student visa, should apply as an international student. Applicants who already reside in the United States and hold other non-immigrant visas (for example, E2, H2 or L2) are also considered international students.

Permanent residents of the United States, naturalized U.S. citizens, and U.S. citizens residing abroad and attending a university outside the United States are not considered international students.

*For more information see here

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When is the application deadline for international students?

The final deadline for international students may be a bit earlier than for domestic students. This is to ensure time for visa processing.

Please visit our Admission page for all updated deadlines.

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What is the language requirement?

For the TOEFL we require a 100 or higher with each band score above 20. 

For the IELTS you need a score of 7 with no band score less than 6.

Official scores must come directly from the testing service and be dated within 2 years (24 months) prior to the start of your intended first term at USC*. To determine if USC requires TOEFL/IELTS scores for the country of study, please check here.

*Exact date is subject to change; See the USC Academic Calendar for when classes begin for your desired term.

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How do I know if I am exempt from language testing?

Most international applicants will need to submit English proficiency scores (TOEFL or IELTS). The only possible exemptions to this rule can be found here: https://gradadm.usc.edu/lightboxes/international-students-english-proficiency/.

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What are the minimum scores for the TOEFL and IELTS?

TOEFL/IELTS scores are only valid for 2 years.

TOEFL:

  • 100+ overall
  • 20+ on each band

IELTS:

  • 7+ overall
  • 6+ on each band
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I have a 3-year Bachelor's degree, can I apply?

Degree evaluation is done by the Office of Graduate Admission.

For country specific requirements please visit: http://gradadm.usc.edu/lightboxes/international-students-country-requirements/.

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Does USC accept WES evaluated transcripts?

USC does NOT accept WES evaluated transcripts.

If you are admitted, then you will submit your transcript(s) to IERF for degree verification.

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Is the MS in Business Analytics STEM-eligible?

Graduates of the MS in Business Analytics program are eligible for STEM OPT Extension.

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Financing Your Degree

For financial documentation, how much money do I need to have?

The cost of attendance at USC changes from year to year. The amount required for financial documentation is the estimated cost of living and studying in Los Angeles for one year, not the cost of tuition for the entire program.

The current required amount for our program and more information on financial documentation can be found at: https://gradadm.usc.edu/lightboxes/international-students-financial-documentation/

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What if I need help paying for school? Are there scholarships?

Master of Science in Business Analytics program offers limited amount of scholarship to admitted students. Candidates will be considered holistically and assessed based on merit, diversity and need. Students who want to be considered for scholarship must answer an additional essay question within the application for admission. There is no separate application for the scholarship.  

Domestic and international students are eligible. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for priority scholarship consideration.

Many of our students pay for their degrees using savings or loans. For more information on financial aid that is specific to international students, please see USC's Financial Aid website.

 

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