Admitted Graduate Students

Congratulations on your admission to Syracuse University and the College of Visual and Performing Arts! As an admitted student, you most likely have many questions about the process from now until when you start your studies. Syracuse University offers a Graduate Admissions Checklist that will help ensure that your admission acceptance is complete. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact the VPA Office of Recruitment and Admissions at 315.443.2769 or  .

Admitted Student Virtual Events

Sessions are intended for admitted students only. Please register for the session with the email you used on your Syracuse University application.

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Admitted Graduate Student Checklist

Review this checklist carefully for all of your next steps.

1. ADMISSION NOTIFICATION

You will receive an official admission notification from Syracuse University via email. To keep track of your application status or upload any additional materials, please ensure you have access to our Application Portal. Once logged in, you can check all updates regarding your application, including the admission decision once it’s made.

2. ACCEPTANCE DECISION

Review the admission letter carefully to understand the terms and conditions of your admission. Any scholarships or funding offers may be sent as an additional communication.

3. ADMISSION ACCEPTANCE FORM AND GRADUATE TUITION DEPOSIT

• Log in to the Syracuse University Application Status Portal. Locate and complete the Admission Acceptance Form provided within the portal. This form signifies your intent to accept the admission offer.
• In the same application status portal, find the option to submit the $500 Graduate Tuition Deposit. This deposit may be required to secure your place in the program and is typically non-refundable.
• Once your Admission Acceptance Form and Graduate Deposit have been completed and submitted, you will be matriculated.

4. PROOF OF FUNDING DOCUMENTATION – INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ONLY

Collect all required financial documentation to demonstrate your ability to cover the costs of your education and living expenses while in the United States. This documentation often includes bank statements, sponsorship letters, or financial guarantee letters. Students can submit their proof of funding documentation at any time, but the I-20 and other visa eligibility documents will not be processed until the Admission Acceptance Form and Graduate Deposit has been submitted.

5. VISA DOCUMENT ISSUANCE – INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ONLY

• Soon after matriculation, the University will issue your visa documents (such as the I-20) as long as they have received the appropriate financial proof that will cover the cost of attendance for your program for the first full year.
• After receiving the I-20 and other required documents, you can initiate your student visa application. Contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for specific instructions on applying for a student visa (typically F-1 or J-1).

6. SUBMIT YOUR FINAL, OFFICIAL DEGREE-BEARING TRANSCRIPT AND REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

By the end of their first semester of study, all graduate students must submit an official transcript, bearing the appropriate signatures and seal from the issuing institution, directly to Syracuse University in a sealed envelope. Unsealed documents, which may have been in the hands of students, are not considered official.

7. DEMONSTRATE PROOF OF QUALIFYING HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE

• Learn more about the student health insurance requirement.
• If you already have health insurance coverage you can waive this requirement through the link above as well.

8. OBTAIN ALL REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS AND FILE THE HEALTH RECORD FORM

• Health Services provides a patient portal for students to securely upload required immunizations and complete needed health screenings. (NetID and password required to access the portal.)
• Records are due prior to your arrival on campus.

9. PRE-ARRIVAL ORIENTATION

The University may provide pre-arrival orientation sessions or materials to help you prepare for your transition to Syracuse University and, if applicable, the United States. Be sure to participate in these if available.

10. TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

Plan or book your travel to Syracuse, New York, considering your program start date and any orientation sessions. International students should make sure to carry all essential documents, including your passport, I-20, and visa.

11. ARRIVAL AND ORIENTATION

Arrive in Syracuse before the start of your program as specified in your admission materials. Attend any mandatory orientation sessions organized by the University to get acclimated to your new environment.

12. ACADEMIC REGISTRATION

Complete any remaining academic registration requirements, such as course selection and meeting with advisors. You will receive information on registration through your Syracuse University email. You should be checking your email daily for important updates and announcements.

Course registration is completed online in your MySlice account. You can also find your registration date and time in MySlice under “Enrollment – Enrollment Dates.” You should register as soon as you can as classes can fill up quickly.

The Late Registration/Schedule Adjustment period can be found on the current academic calendar. You will need Bursar Clearance before registering during this period if you did not previously register for a course prior to the start of the semester. There is a $35 late fee. Schedule adjustments may also be made during the Late Registration period. Please email with any questions.

13. STUDENT ID AND SERVICES

Obtain your student ID card and explore the various student services and resources available on campus.

14. START YOUR GRADUATE PROGRAM

Your academic journey begins! Attend your classes, participate in research or coursework, and make the most of your experience as a graduate student at Syracuse University.

It’s important to communicate closely with Syracuse University’s Graduate Processing Team, the VPA Office of Recruitment and Admissions, the VPA Office of Academic and Career Advising, and International Student Services (if applicable) throughout this process to ensure a smooth transition to your graduate program. Keep an eye on your email and the application status portal for updates and instructions from the University.