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Applying
Requirements for International Students
The Department of English welcomes qualified applications from outside the US. Applying internationally, however, is a bit more complex. International students must meet standards, just as others, for admission. However, in most cases no effort will be made by the Graduate School to determine a grade-point average, since it is virtually impossible when dealing with the variety of different and unfamiliar grading systems. This precludes the use of the usual formula for determining whether a student is qualified for admission. Instead, the admissions committee and eventually the Graduate School will decide on the basis of whether the student has what appears to be a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent, an acceptable academic background, and acceptable scores on the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE).
Language
Applicants whose native language is not English must submit a score of at least 550 (paper test) or 213 (computer test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). This is a Graduate School minimum; the English Department encourages higher scores. Those applying for Graduate Teaching Assistantships must submit a score of at least 50 on the Test of Spoken English (TSE).
Applying
Applications from international students will not be considered until all test scores, including GRE and TOEFL, have been received by the Graduate School. All forms and supporting materials should be sent to the Graduate School at least three months in advance of proposed entrance. The required $50 application fee cannot be waived, deferred, or delayed. The fee must be paid by traveler's check, money order, or check drawn on a US bank. Checks from foreign banks are not acceptable. The fee is not refundable.
Finances
The international student must have sufficient funds to cover all fees, transportation, and living expenses. Currently (2003-2004) this amount is set at US$26,745, with adjustments for a spouse or other dependents. The Graduate School has no funds for scholarships or fellowships and cannot guarantee other forms of financial aid. Therefore, an Official Statement of Finances and certified evidence of a sponsor's financial capability must be submitted. Forms are available at the Graduate School or from the Graduate School web site.
Insurance
All international students are required to subscribe to Plan II of the Student Iinsurance Program or provide evidence of equivalent coverage. Information is available at the Auburn Medical Clinic.