UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in International Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Application deadline: January 31, 2027 for Autumn admissionApplication Deadline
- Minimum IELTS score: 6.5 overallEnglish Requirement
- TOEFL iBT score below 92 requires additional English coursesEnglish Proficiency
- GRE scores are required for some Jackson School M.A. programs (inquire directly)GRE Requirement
- Writing sample must be in EnglishApplication Document
- Recommendations must be in EnglishApplication Document
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in International Studies program at the University of Washington offers a comprehensive graduate education focused on international affairs. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for advanced research or careers in the field. The program emphasizes critical analysis of global issues, policy, and diverse cultural contexts. Students will engage with faculty expertise in various international studies specializations.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall is required. For TOEFL iBT, a score below 80 is not considered, and scores below 92 may require additional English courses.
- When is the application deadline for the Master of Arts in International Studies?
- The application deadline is January 31, 2027, for Autumn admission.
- Are GRE scores required for this program?
- GRE scores are required for some Jackson School M.A. programs, so you should inquire directly with the program to confirm if they are necessary for International Studies.
- What application documents are needed, and do they need to be in English?
- You will need to submit a Statement of Purpose, Personal History Statement, Writing Sample, unofficial transcripts, and recommendation letters. All supporting documents, including the writing sample and recommendations, must be in English.
- What are the tuition fees for this program?
- Please refer to the University of Washington's Graduate Tuition Dashboard for current tuition rates for international graduate students.
- Are there any scholarship opportunities available for graduate students?
- Merit-based Assistantships offering a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and insurance are available, and all applicants to research track master's programs are considered for Fellowships.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree or equivalent is required for admission.
TOEFL iBTBelow 80: not considered. Below 92: considered, but requires additional Academic English Program courses.
IELTSMinimum 6.5 overall (requires additional Academic English Program courses). Recommended 7.0 overall.
TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Washington's Graduate Tuition Dashboard for current rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Washington's Graduate Tuition Dashboard for current rates.
LivingEstimated annual cost of attendance information is available for first-year undergraduates; graduate student costs may vary.
Academic English Program (AEP) courses are an additional cost for students with lower English proficiency scores.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the UW Graduate School application portal.
2. Upload Unofficial TranscriptsUpload unofficial copies of transcripts from all previously attended institutions. Official transcripts will be required later if admitted.
3. Submit Statement of PurposeWrite a 2-3 page (1.5-spaced) statement detailing your background, experience, academic interests, goals, and why the Jackson School is a good fit for you. Include your language background.
4. Submit Personal History StatementWrite a 1-2 page (1.5-spaced) statement addressing any relevant background, experiences, and how they have shaped your interests and goals.
5. Submit Writing SampleSubmit a writing sample in English. This can be a strong paper or an entire undergraduate thesis. An ad-hoc paper on a social science subject is also acceptable.
6. Request Recommendation LettersArrange for letters of recommendation to be submitted electronically by your recommenders. Letters must be in English.
7. Submit Test ScoresIf required, have GRE or TOEFL/IELTS scores sent electronically to the University of Washington (Code: 4854). Check with the program regarding GRE requirements. Minimum IELTS is 6.5; minimum TOEFL iBT is 80 (below 92 requires additional courses).
Scholarships
Assistantships (Research/Teaching)Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, medical and dental insurance
FellowshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall is required. For TOEFL iBT, a score below 80 is not considered, and scores below 92 may require additional English courses.
When is the application deadline for the Master of Arts in International Studies?
+
The application deadline is January 31, 2027, for Autumn admission.
Are GRE scores required for this program?
+
GRE scores are required for some Jackson School M.A. programs, so you should inquire directly with the program to confirm if they are necessary for International Studies.
What application documents are needed, and do they need to be in English?
+
You will need to submit a Statement of Purpose, Personal History Statement, Writing Sample, unofficial transcripts, and recommendation letters. All supporting documents, including the writing sample and recommendations, must be in English.
What are the tuition fees for this program?
+
Please refer to the University of Washington's Graduate Tuition Dashboard for current tuition rates for international graduate students.
Are there any scholarship opportunities available for graduate students?
+
Merit-based Assistantships offering a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and insurance are available, and all applicants to research track master's programs are considered for Fellowships.