Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline for international students?

  • November 15

 

What is the deadline for US students?

  • November 15

 

How can I find out my application status?

  • Please visit the Graduate and Professional Admissions site to check your application's status.
     
  • After submitting your application, you will receive an email from OSU with an OSUID and internet username that you will use to log in.

 

Do you need my GRE scores?

  • No, you do not need to submit your GRE scores.
     
  • We do not require GRE scores for application to our graduate programs, nor will be use the scores for funding purposes.
     
  • Some individual faculty members may be interested in learning about your GRE scores and they will ask you directly through email.

 

I am a student at an English speaking university, can my TOEFL/IELTS scores be waived?

  • If your institution is in a country on this list, then you are exempt.
     
  • If you receive funding as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, you will have to take a speaking test in order to be certified to teach.

 

Do you accept IELTS scores?

  • Yes, as with TOEFL scores, your IELTS scores should be sent directly to the university.

 

Where should I send my test scores?

  • TOEFL: Institution code 1592
     
  • IELTS: Ohio State University

 

My test scores will not make it by the application deadline, can I still apply?

  • Yes, test scores may be received up to two weeks past the deadline. 
     
  • Due to the limited availability of testing dates and the turnaround time for scores to be sent, we allow for a small amount of flexibility.

 

My letters of recommendation will not make it by the deadline, will my application still be considered?

  • No, unlike with test scores, letters of recommendation are your responsibility. 
     
  • It is up to you to coordinate with your letter writers and give them enough time to submit them by the deadline.

 

I am fully funded by a scholarship from my country’s government, do I still have to apply by the November 15th deadline?

  • Yes. You must apply by the November 15th deadline regardless of your funding situation.

 

My GPA is below 3.0, can I still apply?

  • Yes, however, our incoming cohorts average at least a 3.5.

 

Do you have a direct-to-PhD program?

  • Yes, we welcome students without a Master's degree to apply to our PhD program. 
     
  • You can specify PhD in the online application system. 

 

Can I visit the department?

 

When will I find out if I was admitted?

  • Admission decisions are typically made, with students notified, by the end of February. 
     
  • This is a guideline, not a rule.

Still have questions?

All inquiries about the application process and the Geography program more generally should be directed to the Graduate Program Coordinator at branham.118@osu.edu or by telephone at (614) 292-2514.