1. U.S. Master's Program Start Dates
1. Fall Intake
The fall intake usually starts in August or September every year. Fall is the main admission season, with the highest number of students admitted and the most comprehensive range of programs available.
2. Spring Intake
The spring intake usually starts between January and March every year. The number of students admitted is smaller, and the available programs are less comprehensive. Not all schools offer a spring intake.
2. U.S. Master's Application System
There is no unified system for applications across U.S. universities, and the opening times for each system vary slightly.
3. U.S. Master's Application Deadlines
The application deadlines for U.S. Master's programs are not unified. The deadlines vary greatly depending on the school and program, usually ranging from November to May of the following year. Some programs use a rolling admission system, where applications are reviewed in batches, typically every 1-2 months.
4. U.S. Master's Fall Application Timeline (Reference)
Before September | Test Preparation (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT) |
September - October | Document Preparation (including study plan, recommendation letters, resume) |
October - December | Complete Application Form |
January - May (of the following year) | Wait for Admission Notification |
May - July (of the following year) | Visa Application |
July - August (of the following year) | Official Enrollment |
5. U.S. Master's Application Document Checklist
- 1. University Transcript: Request official transcripts in both Chinese and English from your university.
- 2. Graduation Certificate or Enrollment Certificate: Request official copies of your graduation certificate or enrollment certificate in both Chinese and English from your university.
- 3. TOEFL or IELTS Score Report
- 4. GRE or GMAT Score Report
- 5. Resume
- 6. Recommendation Letters: Generally, 2-3 recommendation letters are required, provided by professors or supervisors from your current or previous employers.
- 7. Study Plan or Personal Statement (SOP or Personal Statement)
- 8. Passport Copy
- 9. Financial Proof: International students are required to provide financial proof to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their education and living expenses in the U.S. The amount required typically needs to cover all expenses for one year of study.