Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is one of the fastest-growing public universities in the Midwest, offering high-quality graduate programs, affordable tuition, and excellent research opportunities. For international students seeking U.S. scholarships, STEM programs, or career-focused master’s degrees, SIUE provides an accessible and supportive pathway to a world-class education.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about SIUE graduate admissions, including application requirements, English proficiency scores, financial documentation, I-20 issuance, program-specific deadlines, and opportunities for competitive scholarships.

Whether you’re applying for Fall, Spring, or Summer intake, this step-by-step resource will help you submit a strong application and improve your chances of receiving financial aid or graduate awards.

Why Choose SIUE for Graduate Studies?

SIUE is highly recognized for its STEM programs, business degrees, health sciences, and professional graduate pathways. International students benefit from:

• Affordable tuition compared to many U.S. universities

• Scholarship opportunities such as the Competitive Graduate Award

• High post-graduation employability, especially in Computer Science, Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, and Business Analytics

• A safe and vibrant campus close to St. Louis, Missouri

• Supportive international student services for visa, housing, and employment

Because SIUE offers programs considered valuable in today’s job market, such as Data Science, Computer Engineering, Public Health, Nutrition, Cybersecurity, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, it’s a top choice for students seeking career-oriented education.

SIUE Graduate Admission Requirements for International Students

International applicants who require a non-immigrant student visa (F-1) must meet several academic and immigration-related criteria.

1. Academic Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a U.S. four-year undergraduate degree from a recognized, accredited institution.

Each graduate program may require additional materials such as:

• Letters of recommendation

• A personal statement or statement of purpose

• Resume/CV

• Portfolio (for programs like Art Studio or Art Therapy Counseling)

• GRE or GMAT scores if required

2. English Proficiency Requirements (Minimum Scores)

To demonstrate English proficiency, applicants must meet ONE of the following minimum test scores:

• TOEFL iBT: 79

• IELTS Academic: 6.5

• PTE: 53

• Duolingo English Test: 120

These scores ensure you are eligible for I-20 issuance for your U.S. student visa application.

3. Required Application Materials

To complete your SIUE graduate application, you must submit:

• Completed online application form

• Non-refundable application fee of $40

• Official or unofficial academic transcripts for review

• English proficiency score

• Program-specific requirements (if applicable)

Once approved for admission, you must also submit:

• Official transcripts from all institutions attended

• Financial documents, required for your I-20 or DS-2019

Financial documentation is essential for proving you have adequate funds for tuition and living expenses—an important requirement for F-1 student visa approval.

4. Submitting Test Scores

Send official test scores using the following codes:

• GRE: 1759

• GMAT: 3T9-CD-05

• TOEFL: 1759

• IELTS / PTE / Duolingo: Select SIUE from the institution list

Applicants can upload unofficial score reports temporarily, but official scores are required before final admission and the issuance of the I-20.

Application Deadlines for International Graduate Students

Understanding SIUE’s deadlines is crucial because STEM programs close early, and seats fill quickly.

General International Deadlines

Students seeking full consideration for admission or scholarships should apply by the priority deadline. All STEM programs, including Computer Science, Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, and Information Systems, close on the priority date.

Program-Specific Deadlines (Graduate)

Some graduate programs have fixed deadlines:

• Art Therapy Counseling (MA): January 15

• Psychology (MS): January 15

• Speech-Language Pathology (MS): January 15

• Art Studio (MFA): February 1

• Education Doctorate (EdD): February 1

• Nutrition and Dietetics (MS): February 1

• Pharmaceutical Sciences (MS): February 1

• Social Work (MSW): February 1

• Public Health (MPH): March 1

• History (MA): Feb 1 (Fall), Nov 1 (Spring)

These programs often accept limited cohorts, so early application increases your chances of securing a seat and qualifying for graduate assistantships or academic scholarships.

Scholarships and Competitive Awards for International Graduate Students

One of the most important high-CPC keywords for scholarship blogs is “graduate scholarships for international students in the USA.” SIUE offers competitive funding opportunities, especially for strong applicants.

Competitive Graduate Award (CGA)

• One of the most prestigious awards

• Covers full tuition and provides a monthly stipend

• Deadline: January 15 at 4:30 PM

• Highly competitive and ideal for students applying to STEM, business, and research-based programs

To be considered, applicants must submit a fully complete application by the deadline.

Deferring Admission

If admitted students cannot reach the U.S. on time, they may request a one-semester deferral.

• For Spring 2026, the deferral deadline is October 1.

• Students may need to submit updated financial documents for a new I-20.

Final Tips for a Successful SIUE Graduate Application

To maximize your chance of getting into SIUE—and potentially winning scholarships—follow these tips:

1. Apply before the priority deadline (especially for STEM programs).

2. Prepare financial documents early to speed up I-20 processing.

3. Submit all official transcripts and test scores promptly.

4. Keep checking your email for missing documents notifications.

5. Apply early if you want to be considered for the Competitive Graduate Award.

6. Upload a strong personal statement focusing on your academic goals and career plans.

Conclusion

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is an excellent destination for international students who want an affordable, high-quality graduate education in the United States. With clear admission requirements, multiple scholarship opportunities, and strong academic programs—especially in STEM, Business, Health Sciences, and Social Work—SIUE empowers students to achieve their academic and professional goals.

Whether you’re applying for Fall or Spring, planning to secure competitive funding, or preparing for a U.S. student visa, this guide provides everything you need to submit a strong and timely application.