How to Apply

The application process is entirely online. Please complete and/or upload all of the items listed below to your application account.

At USF College of Arts and Science, your graduate application is reviewed by faculty and staff from the program to which you are applying. We review applications holistically, and the best way for us to understand your background and your academic and professional goals is for your supporting documents to reflect your own writing, not AI-generated content. Please refrain from using AI-generated content in your application materials.

Bachelor's Degree

A Bachelor's degree in any field is required. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended. Experiences working with migrants and migrant organizations strengthen an application, as does proficiency in a second language.

Test Requirements

The GRE is not required.

For international applicants, an English Language exam score (TOEFL, IELTS or PTE) is required.

Transcript (Academic Record)

Upload a copy of your transcript from each university and college attended. Transcripts from any transfer schools and study abroad programs must be submitted since Bachelor's Degree institutions typically do not list transfer and study abroad courses with grades. If still enrolled in your Bachelor's program, submit a copy of your transcript showing in-progress courses. If admitted, an official transcript with proof of graduation is required. USF undergraduates upload their unofficial transcripts for admission review and do not need to send an official USF transcript.

Statement of Purpose

A 500-word, double-spaced, typewritten statement that describes your educational background, personal experiences, work experiences, and professional goals as related to migration studies. Please also describe how you hope to contribute to address the challenges of transnational migration with a Master of Arts in Migration Studies.

Resume or CV

Your current resume or CV lists and describes your educational history, work or job history, coursework related to migration studies, and any other experiences relevant to your pursuit of graduate studies – including internships, published articles or other published materials, volunteer/community service experience, study or work outside of your home country, and any interests or activities related to migration studies.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required to complete your application. Additional letters are accepted, but they are not required. At least one must be from an academic reference (e.g. professors or research advisors). Academic letters should address your academic ability and readiness for graduate study; professional letters should highlight your relevant experience and potential for growth.

To request a letter, enter your recommender's contact information in the online application. This will trigger an email with upload instructions sent directly to them. You do not need to wait for your recommender to submit their letter before submitting your application.

International Applicants

There are additional items and instructions for international applicants.

Notification of Admission Decision

The application review starts after the February 1 priority date. The next review of applications begins after the April 1 date. Admission decision notification begins four weeks after these dates. Applications are accepted after April 1.