1. Graduate admissions
  2. Current or former Ohio State master’s, PhD or graduate certificate students

Graduate admissions Special application instructions for current or former Ohio State master's, PhD or graduate certificate students

Current and former Ohio State master's, PhD or graduate certificate students may apply to a new graduate program by completing the Intra-Graduate Transfer (IGT) process. 

The information on this page applies to you ONLY if:

  • You are CURRENTLY or were FORMERLY in an Ohio State master's or PhD degree-granting program or Ohio State graduate certificate program,
  • And you wish to apply to a new Ohio State master's, PhD or graduate certificate program.

Exceptions: 

The Inter-Graduate Transfer application should NOT be used by:

  • Current and former Ohio State graduate NON-DEGREE students wishing to apply to a master's, PhD or graduate certificate program. Instead, apply as a new graduate applicant.
  • Former Ohio State graduate NON-DEGREE students wishing to reenroll in another graduate non-degree program. Rather than reapplying, submit a Permission to Reactivate Enrollment Eligibility form.

Before you apply

  1. Find your program and check for requirements and application deadlines.
  2. Select your references and prepare required materials.
  3. If you're a current Ohio State student, talk to your program coordinator to gain a clear understanding of the transfer process.

To apply

  1. Find the apply tab under your program listing. If your program is accepting applications, an "Apply" link will be available.
  2. Log in to our application system. If you are currently or recently enrolled (within three terms), you may use your Ohio State credentials. If not, create a new account.
  3. Under "Select Application," select Current or former OSU master's or PhD student.
  4. Complete the application.
    Note:
    1. The application will automatically invite your references to write your recommendation letters. Add, edit or remind references.
    2. You will not be charged an application fee.
  5. Check the status of your application at appstatus.osu.edu. You won't be able to see the status of your required items, so please keep track to ensure required items are submitted on time. (You can always contact Graduate and Professional Admissions with questions.)

What comes next

The application to transfer or apply to a new program requires the approval of the Graduate Studies Committee in the new program.

The Graduate School will verify student-provided information pertaining to academic performance and may require additional materials from the student before review.

If the Graduate Studies Committee approves your application, it will specify the admission classification and the courses already completed that will count toward your degree. The Graduate Studies Committee must notify the Graduate School of the admission classification and courses to count prior to the effective autumn, spring or summer term of transfer.

Current students, be aware:

Current graduate associates should speak with their advisor and supervisor about any potential impacts to their appointment.

Graduate School fellowships (Section 10) do not automatically transfer with students who are approved for transfer into a different graduate program. Doctoral candidacy status (Section 7) does not transfer to a new graduate program.

It is the student's responsibility to understand the ramifications of a transfer upon any financial support.