Children's Literature (MA) + Library and Information Science (MS)

Learn more applying to Simmons University as an International Student.

Can I submit electronic transcripts?

Yes! We accept both electronic and mailed transcripts. Regardless of format, these documents need to be submitted to our office directly from your institution. If your institution is able to securely email their transcripts, they can be sent via email to [email protected]; or through a service such as Parchment, eSCRIP-SAFE, or National Student Clearinghouse.

If my supporting documents must be mailed, what address should I use?

Please be sure to specify the SLIS Admission Office in the address:

SLIS Office of Admission
Simmons University
300 the Fenway
Boston, MA 02115
USA

Can I submit my online application before all of my required materials are received?

Yes, and we encourage it! Once you submit your application, you will be able to log in to the self-service center to check the status of your application and to see if your materials have been received. Prior to submitting your application you cannot check your status online.

What should I do if my recommenders did not receive an email requesting a letter?

First, suggest your recommender check her/his spam folder. Since the notifications come from an automated system the messages often end up in spam. Not there? Contact us and we can resend the notification. You can also resend invitations from your self-service center.

How quickly are my application materials processed?

Once you submit your application, we will look for any previously received materials to attach to your application. It usually takes 3-5 business days, especially during peak application times, for our office to process and attach materials. We'll mark the materials as received by the date they arrived in our office, not the date we add them to your application.

If an interview is required or recommended for the program I’m applying to, do I need to complete the interview prior to the deadline?

No. Our interviews are conducted by faculty and program directors. They typically have limited availability, so we only require your other supporting materials prior to deadlines and if your interview is scheduled after a deadline, you’ll still be considered "complete" by that date.

Will I be notified when my application is complete?

Yes, you will receive an email once your application is complete and under review.

How long will a decision take after my application is complete?

We begin reviewing spring applications in October, and fall applications in January. Once we begin reviewing applications, you will receive a decision within 3-4 weeks from your completion date.

Will my decision letter be emailed or mailed?

Your decision letter(s) will be released through your application portal. You will receive an email notice that your application status has been updated to 'Decision Released,' and you will be prompted to log into your application portal to view your decision.

Can I take classes before I apply?

Yes, we have a pre-matriculated option each fall and spring semester. Anyone with a completed bachelor’s degree and at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA is eligible to apply to take up to two courses prior to starting the degree program. Course options are based on space availability in classes and we typically announce the classes in August for the fall semester (September start) and December for the spring semester (January start). Please contact our office for more information.

Do I need to submit the FAFSA by the priority admission deadline?

No. Students interested in applying for federal financial aid, which is awarded in the form of loans, may do so at any point by submitting the FAFSA and the Simmons University Student Information Form to the Simmons University Office of Student Financial Services. Contact their office via email at [email protected] or by calling 617-521-2001.

Upon acceptance, eligible applicants receive automatic consideration for merit-based scholarships. Most merit-based scholarships are awarded based on the overall strength of an application for admission, and no separate application is required.