Policy Updates from the Graduate School
This page will continue to be updated with new policy changes from the Graduate School due to this year's academic disruption and the current public health crisis.
University resource websites with Frequently Asked Questions:
- Restarting Binghamton website
- Restarting Binghamton Graduate Student FAQs
- International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) website
Admissions
Deferrals
Applicants who wish to defer their offer of admission should be in contact with both
their academic department as well as the Graduate School to request a deferral. Applicants can request that their admission be deferred up
to one year.
English Proficiency Exams
In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Graduate School at Binghamton University
has temporarily approved the use of the Duolingo English Test as proof of English
proficiency through the 2022 application cycle.
A minimum score of 105 is required.
Information on the Duolingo exam can be found here.
A verification email will be sent to you a few days after completing the exam containing a link to send your score to Binghamton University. Please send your scores to gradadmissions@binghamton.edu.
Information about additional application requirements for international students is available online.
Form I-20 for International Students
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has
temporarily approved the use of electronic I-20s. The Office of International Student
and Scholar Services (ISSS) will provide a scanned copy of new I-20s directly to international
students via email.
The electronic I-20 serves as a valid document for the purpose of applying for a visa and entering the US. ISSS will hold all original I-20 documents on campus for pick up once students arrive in Binghamton. Please be sure to visit the ISSS office upon arrival.
ISSS has posted a letter of explanation online. We recommend printing both the letter and a copy of the scanned I-20.
Enrolled Students
Policy on Grade Point Average (GPA)
Graduate students must have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 to receive their graduate degree. The GPA requirement will not be adjusted and S/U courses do not count toward GPA
calculation.
Temporary Electronic Withdrawal Form
Student Records has created a temporary electronic withdrawal form for both undergraduate
and graduate students. The graduate student withdrawal form is required if you wish
to drop ALL fall or spring semester courses or to withdraw from Binghamton University
in good standing. Please select the appropriate reason for withdrawal, which now includes
an option for Medical (COVID-19).
The electronic form is available online.
Please be sure you have read the policies on graduate student withdrawal in the Binghamton University Bulletin and the Graduate School Manual.
- Speak to your department chair or graduate director to clarify your student status and funding status.
- If you are an international student, you must also speak with an International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) representative about the withdrawal.
- If you are a financial aid recipient, you must also contact Financial Aid and Student Records to discuss the effects of the withdrawal.
