A global perspective belongs here.

Applying to graduate school in another country is a big decision.

New city. New academic system. New opportunities.

We’re glad you’re considering Boston University College of Communication (COM).

At COM, international graduate students are an essential part of our community. You’ll learn alongside classmates from around the world, gain new perspectives, build lasting connections, and prepare for careers across a global media and communication landscape.

Whether you’re interested in advertising, public relations, journalism, media science, film and television, or emerging areas of communication and technology, you’ll find people ready to support you from application through graduation.

Whatever brings you to COM, your perspective will become part of what makes our community stronger.

Why international students choose COM

A global community from day one

Moving to a new country comes with logistical questions, cultural adjustments, and plenty of unknowns. You won’t have to navigate them alone.

Boston University is home to students from more than 140 countries, creating a vibrant, multicultural community where different perspectives, cultures, and experiences enrich classroom conversations and campus life.

Support from application to graduation

From admissions questions and academic advising to visa guidance and campus resources, you’ll have access to services designed specifically for international students.

COM’s Graduate Affairs team works closely with BU’s International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) to support you through enrollment, immigration documentation, and your transition to life in Boston.

Build experience while you study

Many international students choose graduate study in the United States to combine academic learning with professional experience. Depending on your visa status and eligibility, opportunities may include internships, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), career workshops, experiential learning, and access to Boston University’s extensive professional network. Students in eligible STEM-designated programs may also qualify for the STEM OPT extension.

Boston: a premier global hub

Boston brings together students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals from around the world. As a global center for higher education, research, healthcare, technology, media, and innovation, the city gives graduate students access to employers, internships, industry events, and professional communities across sectors.

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 in Public Relations

Important application deadlines

Because applying from abroad requires additional planning for transcripts, English proficiency testing, visa processing, and travel arrangements, we strongly encourage you to submit your materials as early as possible.

  • Most residential master’s programs: Priority deadline: February 1; final deadline: May 1. Some programs have different deadlines or rolling admission, so be sure to check your program’s page for details.
  • PhD in Emerging Media Studies: Final deadline: January 15.

English proficiency requirements

If English is not your native language or your undergraduate degree was earned at an institution where English was not the primary language of instruction, you’ll generally need to submit official English proficiency test scores with your application.

We recommend taking your exam at least 20 days before your target application deadline to allow time for scores to arrive.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT):

  • For tests taken before January 2026: minimum required score of 100
  • For tests taken in January 2026 or later: minimum required score of 5.0 on the updated TOEFL scale
  • Score policy: BU COM accepts TOEFL MyBest Scores to meet the minimum score thresholds.
  • BU COM code: 3087

International English Language Testing System (IELTS): minimum required overall band score of 7.0 

Duolingo English Test: minimum required score of 130; Duolingo FAQ page

Waiver policy note: Proficiency testing exemptions are generally granted automatically to native English speakers and applicants who completed a full degree program at an accredited institution where English is the official, primary language of instruction. For complete verification and score submission instructions, please see our Application Instructions.

Application requirements

International applicants follow the same application process as domestic applicants, with additional requirements related to English proficiency and academic records earned outside the United States.

We recommend reviewing our Application Instructions and Frequently Asked Questions pages for detailed requirements and timelines.

To apply, you’ll need:

  1. Online application
  2. Academic transcripts (with certified English translations where applicable)
  3. Current resume/CV
  4. Personal statement
  5. Letters of recommendation (number varies by program)
  6. Official English proficiency documentation (if applicable)

Your pre-arrival checklist: moving to Boston

Once you’re admitted, we’ll help you prepare for life at BU and in Boston.

  • Secure your immigration documents and visa: Start this process as soon as possible after admission. Review financial documentation, I-20 procedures, and visa requirements through BU’s ISSO, including its “Documents and Procedures” and “How to apply for a visa” resources. COM can provide institutional support, but cannot offer legal advice on federal immigration matters.
  • Arrange housing: Explore on-campus and off-campus housing options, along with resources for navigating Boston’s neighborhoods on the university’s housing site.
  • Submit required health documentation: Complete all required health records and immunizations, and review BU’s student health insurance requirements at the Student Health Services website.
  • Attend orientation: Before classes begin, you’ll participate in orientation programs through both COM and ISSO.

Helpful student resources

Contact us

Questions about applying to COM as an international student? Reach out to the COM Graduate Affairs team at comgrad@bu.edu. We’re here to help you navigate the process.