International Students
An international applicant is anyone who is not a United States citizen or permanent resident. If you fit this definition, please check the UW Graduate School information website for important information about admission and application requirements.
For SMEA application required documents and deadlines, please see the SMEA Admissions section.
Statement of Financial Ability
International applicants must be able to submit a statement of financial ability. This statement will be available upon submission of their application. The School of Marine and Environmental Affairs is not able to guarantee funding of international students.
Testing
GRE requirement for 2026 is TBD.
All international applicants must complete an approved English Language Proficiency Exam. The exception is applicants from Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom, and those who have received a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited U.S. institution or from an institution in the countries listed. These applicants are exempt from an approved English Language Proficiency Exam. IELTS test scores are no longer considered for admission as of June 1, 2017.
We accept two forms of the TOEFL, Duolingo, and Academic IELTS. Visit the UW Graduate School English Language Proficiency Requirements page to learn more.
| These specific English Language Test scores are the only versions accepted for admission to the Graduate School. Other tests or versions do not qualify. | TOEFL iBT | TOEFL MyBest | Duolingo | Academic IELTS |
| Minimum Required Score (ELP Not Satisfied) – effective starting Winter 2025 admissions |
80 | 80 | 110 | 6.5 |
| Recommended Score (ELP Satisfied) – effective starting Winter 2025 admissions |
92 or higher | 92 or higher | 125 or higher | 7.0 or higher |
Optional Practical Training
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary work authorization that provides F-1 students with an opportunity for hands-on work experience related to their academic field of study. Students are eligible for up to 12 months of full-time practical training per degree level. In addition, because SMEA’s Master of Arts in Marine Affairs degree and the Concurrent Degree between the Jackson School of International Studies and SMEA are STEM Designated Degrees, graduates may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT employment authorization. For additional information on F-1 benefits like OPT, please visit UW International Students Services’ website, iss.uw.edu.