Application Timeline & Requirements

Key Dates

*The international deadlines are earlier than the general ones on purpose — they build in time for visa processing. Applying by these dates, not the general deadline, is the most important scheduling advice for an applicant based in China.

Requirements

Application fee: $50 USD

GRE: not required for any Rossin College graduate program. English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, PTE, or Cambridge): required of all international applicants unless waived (e.g., 2+ years of study/work in an English-speaking country). Unofficial scores accepted for application submission and initial review, with official scores required upon admission.

English Proficiency Minimum Scores (If Not Waived)

Scores expire 2 years from test date and must remain valid through I-20 issuance. Applicants with test scores that do not meet the above minimum requirements will still be considered for admission, but additional English language requirements will be included.

Transcripts: must be in the original language with an official English translation attached. A credential evaluation (e.g., through World Education Services) may be required if degree equivalency isn't clear from internal review.

Decision timeline: Master's, 2-3 weeks after a complete application. PhD, decisions mostly issued January–February for fall admission.

Steps

1. Identify your program and submit a request for information
2. Apply online through Lehigh's graduate application portal
3. Submit all required documents (resume, transcripts, English proficiency, recommendation contacts, statement of purpose)
4. Receive your decision; accept and return your offer letter
5. Begin the I-20 process with OISS — financial documentation, then visa application