International Students
The O’Donnell School of Public Health welcomes learners from across the globe. The diverse experiences of our students contribute to a rich environment of cultural exchange and learning in our programs. The UT Southwestern Office of International Affairs is a great resource and partner throughout the admissions and education journey.
Before you get started with the M.P.H. application process, here are some details to know:
Visas
International learners who are not already eligible to study in the U.S. and require visa sponsorship generally apply for F-1 student visas. After you receive an offer of admission, UT Southwestern Office of International Affairs will contact you with detailed instructions and will guide you through the visa process.
Test Scores
English Language Test Scores
International students who received their bachelor’s degree from a country where English is not the main language or an official language must take an English language test. We accept the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and the Duolingo English Test (DET). Your test scores must be valid at the time of application.
GRE
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for the application, but it is recommended. Some concentrations require evidence of math proficiency. If math is not reflected on your transcript, we encourage submitting GRE scores.
Transcript Evaluation
Applicants who have graduated from a college or university outside the United States must submit acceptable evidence of U.S. degree/course equivalency. All coursework taken at the institution must go through a “Course-by-Course” evaluation for United States institution equivalence by World Education Services (WES). Please note that this process can take several weeks. To avoid any delays, we recommend starting this process as soon as possible. Please osph@utsouthwestern.edu us with any questions.
Scholarships & Funding
M.P.H.
International applicants are encouraged to complete their application with letters of recommendation by Feb. 15 for consideration for merit scholarships. These scholarships are competitive, so it is important to ensure that your application is complete and submitted in a timely manner for consideration. Scholarships are applied toward tuition and fee costs but will not cover the full cost of attendance.
Non-U.S. citizens are not eligible for federal financial aid and are responsible for funding tuition and living expenses. The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health lists recommendations for financing a public health degree.
Funding Requirements for F-1 Visas
In order for UT Southwestern to issue the I-20 form, a student must be admitted to the program and provide evidence of adequate financial support to cover the full cost of attendance during the two-year program. The Department of Homeland Security requires appropriate documentation. While the cost of attendance is an estimate and tends to be higher than what most students spend during their two years of education, it is still required to demonstrate support for this amount. International students are not eligible for the same loan and grant programs as domestic students.
Graduate Assistantships
A small number of graduate assistantships for M.P.H students become available each year, but these are competitive positions and not guaranteed.
Check with the Office of International Affairs for your particular visa situation. Students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa are permitted to work on their own campus up to 20 hours per week. Unauthorized employment is illegal and will seriously jeopardize your stay in the U.S.
Questions?
If you have questions, please contact us (osph@utsouthwestern.edu).
