Students interested in applying for admission to graduate programs at Francis Marion University should write or call the Graduate Office for information and an application packet, which contains necessary forms and instructions for applicants.

The University encourages all qualified students to apply. Equal educational opportunities are offered to students regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, physical disability, sexual orientation or age.

For information on specific admission requirements, please consult the information provided with each graduate program in this section of the catalog.

LEGAL RESIDENT DEFINED

Charges for tuition and fees depend upon the student's status as a resident or non-resident of South Carolina. A non-resident pays a higher rate of tuition and fees than a legal resident of South Carolina.

For fee purposes, the state's Code of Laws defines South Carolina residents as independent persons who reside in and have been domiciled in South Carolina for a period of no less than 12 months with the intention of making a permanent home therein, and their dependents. Those who meet these criteria may be considered eligible to pay general university fees at state-supported higher education institutions at in-state rates. Eligibility begins with the next academic semester after expiration of the required 12 months.

Exceptions to the 12-month requirement may be made for independent persons and their dependents who locate in South Carolina for full-time employment and for military personnel and their dependents. A student who believes he/she meets the state criteria should contact the Admissions Office at least two weeks prior to registration.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

International graduate students must have a proficiency in the English language that will enable them to succeed in their studies at Francis Marion University. The measure of that proficiency will be the successful completion of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) at a score of 550 or higher (paper and pencil version) or 213 (computer version).

International students must also submit a financial statement indicating proof of ability to pay all expenses while attending Francis Marion University for a year as well as transportation expenses to and from their home country.

The University requires an official statement from a bank, employer, sponsor, or some other official affidavit of support. Applicants can expect to use one-half the total each semester. Financial certification should come directly from the source. No facsimiles will be accepted.

TRANSIENT STUDENTS

Degree-seeking students enrolled in graduate studies at institutions other than Francis Marion University who wish to take graduate courses at Francis Marion University must complete the following requirements:

1. Submit a graduate application for admission and pay the nonrefundable graduate application fee.
2. Submit a transient permission form from the Academic Officer or Registrar of that institution.

SENIOR CITIZENS

Applicants 60 years or older wanting to take graduate courses for credit or personal enrichment (audit status) need to contact the Office of Financial Assistance for the requirements for being classified as a senior citizen. Although general University fees are waived for eligible senior citizens, all other fees must be paid.

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