Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine is proud to welcome international students to our MS in Pathology program. To support you throughout the admissions process, we’ve outlined key resources and requirements specific to international applicants.
Why Us?
As an international student, you’ll find that CWRU offers a welcoming, diverse, and resource-rich environment designed to support you. With 24% of students in graduate and professional programs coming from international backgrounds, CWRU stands out as a truly global institution. The university provides a variety of resources to ease your transition, such as the Center for International Affairs, which offers visa support, cultural programming, and dedicated advisors to help with any challenges you may face. What’s more, CWRU Department of Pathology is ranked #11 nationally and boasts an expert faculty with expertise in four key areas: cancer biology, immunology, infectious disease, and neurodegeneration. The surrounding city of Cleveland offers a low cost of living, access to numerous cultural institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Orchestra. Choosing CWRU means choosing a community that will support your ambitions, help you feel at home in a new environment, and prepare you for a successful future anywhere in the world.
We're Here for You!
Navigating graduate education while adjusting to a new country can be challenging. The Office of International Student Resources & Engagement, located within the Center for International Affairs, is here to help make your move to Cleveland as smooth as possible. Our team offers guidance on housing, visa processes, and more. Be sure to check out our following resources for additional information:
Submitting Transcripts and Degree Information
All applicants must have the equivalent of a four-year, US bachelor's degree conferred prior to the start of the term of admission.
Submit unofficial transcripts for all colleges or universities attended. Transcripts or degree certifications in languages other than English must be accompanied by an English translation. If accepted, the School of Medicine will need official copies of both the English and original language versions submitted, not just the English version. Scanned copies sent by email or PDF are not considered official; official copies must be in a sealed envelope from the university or come via encrypted email directly from the university.
Transcript Evaluation
On occasion, applicants may need to have their transcripts evaluated. Common reasons to have your transcripts evaluated include GPA or degree equivalency (such as a 3-year degree or National Diploma/Higher National Diploma), English translation, or authentication of the documents. We suggest a course-by-course evaluation by a NACES organization such as World Education Services (WES) or SpanTran. Evaluations range from $170 to $220, and their highly trained experts will work with you to create an evaluation that you can later submit to jobs or colleges.
English Proficiency
International applicants must submit a score report for an English proficiency exam. Score reports are valid for 2 years from the date of testing. The accepted exams and minimum scores are:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Internet-Based: 100
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Paper-Based: 600. If you are submitting a paper-based score, you must also take a spoken English test with a short writing assessment prior to admission. Please contact mcbd@case.edu.
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 7.0
- Pearson Test of English (PTE-Academic): 68
*We do not accept the Duolingo Exam, the IELTS Indicator, the TOEFL Essentials Exam, or the TOEFL MyBest Scores.
Exemptions are approved for i) Canadian citizens or ii) applicants who have received a bachelor's or master's degree from a US academic institution. In these circumstances, the English proficiency exam is waived after the online application has been submitted. For questions regarding this policy, please contact us at mcbd@case.edu.
Relocation and Living Resources
Visas
International Student Services (ISS) will process all paperwork related to your travel and stay in the U.S. You will hear from ISS after you receive your official acceptance letter (via email) from the School of Graduate Studies and Accept our offer of admission. Note that the second page of your admissions offer letter contains step-by-step information on starting your visa process in Terra Dotta. ISS will not start your visa unless you have accepted the offer from Graduate Studies in the online application system. ISS will communicate with students via Terra Dotta for processing your paperwork.
Housing
On-campus housing is not available to the graduate student population; however, CWRU does own various properties located around campus that meet the needs of graduate students.
For more information about CWRU-owned properties and living arrangements, visit:
If you have questions about renting apartments in the US, or if you are having difficulties with a landlord, management company, or roommate, you can contact ISS staff at international@case.edu, and one of the ISS staff will get back to you. For more information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Work Authorization
Students in lawful F-1 status may work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks without affecting their visa status, as long as it doesn’t interfere with academic responsibilities.
Pathology students, as STEM students, are eligible for up to three years of Optional Practice Training (OPT) related to the student’s field of study, usable pre- or post-graduation. The application requires a VISA Office workshop, complete paperwork, and USCIS approval before employment begins. For further details, students are encouraged to attend VISA Office workshops and consult an advisor for specific guidance.