kennyfol2000For many international students, particularly those from countries where the Higher National Diploma (HND) and lower undergraduate classifications like the 2.2 Third Class are common, the prospect of continuing education in the United States can feel daunting. However, while many people feels it seem challenging, it isnt at all as there are several prestigious universities in the USA that recognize and accept applicants with a 2.2 Third Class degree or an HND for their Master’s programs. This article explores 10 such institutions that offer accessible pathways for students from diverse academic backgrounds to pursue graduate studies.
Before we reveal the top 10 universities that accepts third class and HND for their masters and even direct PHD program, lets talk about the documents you need to start processing.
Documents Needed For Application Into A US University
- School Result
- School Transcript
- GRE Result ( You will need to write a GRE exam )
- Wes Evaluation ( If you finish with HND though it is not compulsory but its always good to do WES evaluation so that your result can be converted to a 4.0 grading system used in the US )
- Your CV
- SOP
When all listed above are ready, you can then apply to as many school as possible and reaching out to professors of each of the school. Also note that as an international student, you have access to a fully or partial funded scholarship.
Universities in the US that Accepts Third class and HND for Masters Program
1. University of Southern California (USC)
Located in Los Angeles, the University of Southern California (USC) is a globally recognized institution that offers various graduate programs across multiple fields. USC has a flexible approach when it comes to graduate admissions, allowing students with lower undergraduate classifications like a 2.2 Third Class or HND to be considered for their Master’s programs. USC places significant emphasis on work experience, extracurricular activities, and a strong personal statement. The university also offers pathways through its graduate preparatory programs for students who may not meet the traditional requirements but demonstrate the potential for success in their graduate studies.
Key Programs: Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Public Administration
Admissions Criteria: A 2.2 Third Class or HND can be considered with supporting evidence such as work experience, personal statements, or additional qualifications like professional certifications.
2. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is a top public research university that welcomes a diverse student body. It offers graduate programs that allow for flexibility in admission requirements, especially for international students. The University of Arizona understands that international grading systems and qualifications can vary widely, and they are willing to evaluate applications from students with a 2.2 Third Class degree or an HND. Applicants with a Third Class may need to demonstrate additional experience or qualifications, particularly in their chosen field of study.
Key Programs: Computer Science, Engineering, Education, Business Administration
Admissions Criteria: In cases of a 2.2 Third Class or HND, students may need to submit a strong application package, including a compelling statement of purpose, relevant work experience, and letters of recommendation.
3. University of Bridgeport
The University of Bridgeport, located in Connecticut, is one of the more inclusive institutions in the USA that offers graduate programs for international students, including those with a 2.2 Third Class or HND. This university has been known for accepting students who may not meet the traditional graduate admission requirements. Bridgeport’s graduate programs in fields such as business, engineering, and healthcare are particularly open to students with non-traditional academic backgrounds.
Key Programs: Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Education
Admissions Criteria: Students with a 2.2 Third Class or HND will need to provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and possibly work experience in a related field. Additionally, a personal interview may be part of the process.
4. University of New Haven
The University of New Haven, located in West Haven, Connecticut, offers a range of graduate programs that are open to international students with a 2.2 Third Class or HND. The university is particularly strong in engineering, computer science, and criminal justice, fields that often value hands-on experience in addition to academic performance. While a 2.2 Third Class degree may not be competitive for all programs, the University of New Haven evaluates applicants holistically, considering professional experience and academic potential.
Key Programs: Engineering, Business Administration, Cybersecurity, Criminal Justice
Admissions Criteria: In addition to an academic transcript showing a 2.2 Third Class or HND, applicants should present a well-rounded application, including a statement of purpose, work experience, and strong recommendations.
5. Hofstra University
Hofstra University, located in Hempstead, New York, is another top institution that accepts students with a 2.2 Third Class or HND for its graduate programs. Hofstra has a reputation for offering flexible admission requirements, particularly for students from international education systems that do not always conform to U.S. academic standards. Students with lower undergraduate classifications can be considered for admission to the Master’s program as long as they demonstrate academic potential through additional documentation like work experience, professional certifications, or a strong personal statement.
Key Programs: Business Administration, Engineering, Education, Public Relations
Admissions Criteria: A 2.2 Third Class or HND is acceptable, but students must demonstrate academic aptitude through other means, such as professional experience or extra academic achievements.
6. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas, located in Lawrence, Kansas, is known for its inclusive approach to graduate admissions. While the university typically accepts applicants with a 2.2 Third Class or HND for its Master’s programs, they also emphasize the importance of a strong personal statement, relevant work experience, and a willingness to succeed in an academically rigorous environment. The university’s graduate school reviews each applicant’s entire profile, considering all aspects of their education and experience rather than just their undergraduate GPA.
Key Programs: Engineering, Public Administration, Computer Science, Business Administration
Admissions Criteria: A 2.2 Third Class or HND is considered on a case-by-case basis, and applicants may need to provide additional documentation such as work experience, internships, or academic achievements.
7. DePaul University
DePaul University in Chicago offers an inclusive admissions process for international students, making it a popular choice for those with a 2.2 Third Class or HND. The university values professional experience, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement, which can all be important factors in compensating for a lower undergraduate classification. DePaul’s flexible approach allows students who have not met traditional GPA requirements to still gain admission, especially if they show potential in their chosen field.
Key Programs: Computer Science, Business Administration, Information Technology, Marketing
Admissions Criteria: While a 2.2 Third Class or HND is accepted, applicants should submit a compelling application, including a statement of purpose, professional work experience, and letters of recommendation.
8. University of South Florida (USF)
The University of South Florida, located in Tampa, offers graduate programs in various fields and has a reputation for supporting international students. USF evaluates applicants holistically, considering the entirety of an applicant’s academic and professional background. This flexibility allows applicants with a 2.2 Third Class or HND to apply and be considered for admission. Additionally, USF offers various support services to ensure that international students succeed in their graduate programs.
Key Programs: Engineering, Business Administration, Public Health, Education
Admissions Criteria: Applicants with a 2.2 Third Class or HND must provide academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a personal statement, and potentially work experience or internships relevant to their chosen field.
9. University of Memphis
The University of Memphis is another top university that accepts international students with a 2.2 Third Class or HND for graduate programs. Memphis is committed to providing opportunities for students with diverse educational backgrounds. Students who may not meet the traditional academic qualifications are often considered based on other criteria, such as work experience and their ability to demonstrate potential for academic success.
Key Programs: Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Social Work
Admissions Criteria: A 2.2 Third Class or HND is considered for admission, and applicants are encouraged to submit additional materials such as a personal statement, resume, and professional experience in relevant fields.
10. University of Hartford
The University of Hartford is a private institution in Connecticut that welcomes students from various educational backgrounds, including those with a 2.2 Third Class or HND. The university places an emphasis on academic and personal growth, offering a range of graduate programs designed to support students with diverse experiences. International students are encouraged to apply and can gain entry based on their overall academic and professional profile, rather than just their undergraduate GPA.
Key Programs: Business Administration, Engineering, Music, Psychology
Admissions Criteria: Applicants with a 2.2 Third Class or HND can be considered based on their academic record, professional experience, personal statement, and recommendations.
Conclusion
For international students with a 2.2 Third Class or HND looking to pursue a Master’s program in the United States, many top universities offer pathways to higher education. These institutions recognize the diversity of academic qualifications from around the world and evaluate applicants holistically, looking at not just undergraduate performance but also work experience, professional qualifications, and potential for success. By carefully preparing a strong application with supporting documentation like letters of recommendation, personal statements, and relevant work experience, students can secure admission to some of the best universities in the U.S. and take the next step in their academic and career journey.
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