A warm welcome to the College of Communication (COM) at Boston University!

Applying to graduate school from abroad is an exciting, major step, and we’re thrilled you’re considering BU COM. We deeply value the global perspectives international students bring to our campus, and we’re committed to supporting your success from your application through your career launch.

Explore the resources below for information tailored for international applicants. If you have any questions, please email us at comgrad@bu.edu.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Why International Students Thrive at BU COM

At BU COM, our diverse student body and faculty create a rich and dynamic learning environment where you’ll build a global network and gain the skills you need in today’s interconnected world.

During your time in grad school, especially one as diverse and inclusive as BU, keep your options open to exploring something that you haven’t tried before in your academic or professional journey. You could end up discovering a completely new field and find yourself loving it!

Shanaya Udeshi, MS Public Relations

Application Requirements for International Students

Applying from abroad involves a few additional steps tailored to international credentials. Use this section as your guide alongside our general Application Instructions and Frequently Asked Questions pages.

We encourage you to look at the curriculum/courses for our graduate degrees to find the program that best aligns with your goals. Our graduate degrees are listed at the bottom of this page, and when you visit the webpage for the graduate program(s) you’re interested in, you can find the curriculum/courses on the “degree requirements” tab or in the BU Bulletin.

Here are a few notes on the application process:

  • You may apply to up to two COM graduate programs.
  • Applicants must pay an application fee for each program they apply to.
  • If you apply to more than one program, you need to tailor your application materials to each individual program. Explain why you are interested in that specific program and how your skills and experiences make you a good fit. Applications with generic language and/or very similar personal statements for multiple programs will be at a disadvantage.

Step-by-Step Application Checklist

  1. Complete the Online Application.
  2. Submit Transcripts: Provide unofficial transcripts from all previously attended universities/colleges. Transcripts that are not in English must be officially translated into English. We typically do not require a U.S. equivalency evaluation (see our FAQs for more information). While a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale is generally expected for successful applicants, we review all applications holistically and do not have minimum GPA requirements.
  3. English Proficiency: Submit scores from a recognized English proficiency test (see details below).
  4. GRE Scores (if required): Submit official scores ONLY if you are applying to our PhD in Emerging Media Studies. Our other programs do not require GRE scores.
  5. Letters of Recommendation (2 for Master’s; 3 for PhD): Recommendations should ideally come from professors or supervisors who can speak to your academic abilities, research potential, and/or professional skills. More information is available here.
  6. Personal Statement/Essays: This is the most important element for demonstrating your passion, fit, and potential for success at BU COM. Start your compelling personal statement by addressing the specific essay prompts provided. You’re strongly encouraged to share your unique perspectives and experiences, including any challenges you have overcome and how they have shaped your goals. Ensure your statement clearly articulates your academic background, research (if applicable), interests, career goals, and your specific reasons for choosing your program at BU COM. This is your primary opportunity to tell your story and demonstrate why you are a strong candidate. Note: If the official prompts prevent you from fully discussing your background or specific reasons for choosing your COM program, please feel free to reach out to us about submitting a supplementary statement.
  7. Kira Talent assessment: This is designed to capture your authentic communication style, so please complete it without the use of scripts, AI tools, or outside assistance. We want to see how you naturally express yourself, as strong communication skills are essential in COM. We understand it’s natural to feel nervous, so we encourage you to use the available practice questions to familiarize yourself with the format. Some practice questions may be easier or harder than the actual assessment questions. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers; we’re interested in how you think and communicate!
  8. Resume/CV: Your most up-to-date resume or CV (we have no preference which format you use) helps us to learn more about you, beyond what might be in other parts of the application. More information on creating a resume can be found on COM’s Career Services website, and information on a CV is on BU’s Center for Career Development website.
  9. Pay the application fee.
  10. Financial Documentation (if applying for a visa): After admission, provide documentation demonstrating your ability to fund your studies at BU if you decide to matriculate at BU.
Application Deadlines

Our priority application deadline for Master’s programs is February 1. Master’s applications are rolling until our final deadline, May 1.

Our PhD in Emerging Media Studies deadline is January 15.

Please ensure that all documents, including transcripts and test scores (if required), are received by these dates. We recommend submitting your application well in advance of the deadline to allow ample time for processing.

English Proficiency Requirement

Applicants whose native language is not English and/or who received their undergraduate degree from a non-English speaking institution must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting scores from one of the following tests. We recommend taking the exam at least 20 days prior to the deadline to ensure we receive it on time.

1. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT)

Minimum score: 100 (for tests taken before January 2026) or 5.0 (for tests taken after January 2026). We accept TOEFL MyBest Scores to meet the total score of 100 or above. BU COM code: 3087

2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Required band score: 7.0.  IELTS scores can be sent electronically to our E-Delivery account, “Boston University Graduate Programs.” 

3. Duolingo

An alternative option to the TOEFL and IELTS exams for this application cycle is the Duolingo English Test, a test that can be taken online, on-demand from your home computer. We require a minimum Duolingo score of 130.

  • After taking the exam, select Boston University Graduate & Professional Programs as a score recipient. You’ll also need to email our admissions office at comgrad@bu.edu with a screenshot of your results and the exact date you took the Duolingo test.
  • The cost of the Duolingo Exam is $49 USD.
  • Most questions about the exam can be found on the Duolingo FAQ page.

Waiver note: Exemptions are generally granted if you are a native English speaker or have earned a degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction.

Funding and Financial Information

Merit Scholarships
  • International students are automatically considered for merit scholarships.
  • Over 80% of matriculating students receive a scholarship, ranging from $2,000 to $38,000+ per academic year.
  • We strongly recommend applying by the February 1 deadline for priority scholarship consideration. Master’s applications are rolling until our final deadline, May 1.
  • Visit COM’s financial aid and scholarships page for more information.
Visa and Financial Guidance
  • Visa Information: Most admitted international students obtain an F-1 or J-1 student visa. A general overview of the visa process and required documents is available on BU ISSO’s website. (Please note: we cannot provide legal advice on visa applications.)
  • Cost of Living: Review the estimated breakdown of living expenses (housing, food, transportation, etc.) here. Remember, all international students at BU COM are considered for merit scholarships, up to $38,000+ per academic year.
  • Funding Responsibility: Please note that students are responsible for securing funding for their studies, including tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. More information is available on ISSO’s website.

Pre-Arrival & Student Life

Your Journey to Boston

We provide resources to ensure a smooth transition:

  • Visa & Immigration: Review the detailed ISSO website on the visa process and application procedures: “Documents and Procedures” here; “How to apply for a visa” here.
  • Housing: Find information on on-campus and off-campus housing options and Boston’s various neighborhoods.on this site.
  • Health Insurance: Visit the Student Health Services website for health insurance information and requirements.
  • Orientation: In addition to ISSO orientation, BU COM has its own orientation activities. Admitted students will receive more information after submitting their deposit. Additional resources that may be helpful as you prepare to come to Boston are here.
  • Peer-authored International Graduate Student Guide: Consult this incredibly helpful student authored guide, which covers everything from settling down to navigating your BU journey. It’s a great example of the peer support and strong international student community you’ll find at BU!

Contact Us

For any questions about the application or COM programs, please reach out to BU COM’s Graduate Affairs office at comgrad@bu.edu. We’re here to help!