College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

About the school

Founded in 1946, Portland State University (PSU) has consistently ranked among the top universities for its impactful research and dedication to community betterment. PSU is among the nation's most innovative public universities, and ranks 8th on U.S. News & World Report's list of top Service Learning schools.

PSU’s notable alumni include Mel Brown (godfather of Portland jazz music), Isaka Shamsud Din (civil rights activist and artist), Charles Moose (first Black police chief of Portland), and Margaret Carter (first Black woman elected to the Oregon state legislature).

PSU is located in the heart of Portland, Oregon, granting students convenient access to internships, cultural activities, lively music, food scenes, and community-engaging activities. The vantage location also fosters close ties between students and local industries, creating a seamless bridge between academic learning and real-world application.

Where is the school located?

Life at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

With a strong emphasis on community involvement and sustainability, PSU provides a nurturing environment for international students, encouraging personal growth and meaningful connections. From special international student life teams to organisations of international students to cultural events and sports activities, there's something for everyone.

The university offers diverse on-campus housing options, from studio and suites to two bedroom units, available on a shared or single-room basis. The housing includes furnished and unfurnished spaces with modern amenities. The campus authorities can also assist you in finding a suitable roommate.

Several off-campus housing options are available around the premises. You can compare on and off-campus housing prices to make an informed decision. On average, off-campus accommodation may cost around $1,631 (including furnishing and transportation costs). These costs would vary depending on the location.

The campus offers various dining options and meal plans. You will find a selection of eateries around the campus, including a dining centre and food courts. Students can relish flavourful, wholesome meals from global cuisines to local delicacies and stay fuelled and active.

The campus is equipped with health and wellness centres to ensure students’ physical and mental fitness. The recreational centres allow students to schedule activities such as hiking, intramural sports, swimming and spa, group fitness training, and many more.

PSU students can access subsidised transit passes, bicycle parking garages, parking permit options, including carpooling and even free streetcar facilities.

Additional benefits of studying at the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

According to Best Value Schools, PSU is Oregon's most affordable research university. As per Niche.com, PSU is one of the most diverse universities in the nation. PSU ranks No.1 in Best College Locations in Oregon and offers the “Best College Food in America 2022”, according to Niche.com.

Admissions criteria

As an international student applying for graduate programmes at PSU - College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you must consider the additional admission requirements for specific programmes apart from having a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 out of 4.0. Some programmes may require writing samples, a portfolio, a statement of purpose (SOP), a letter of recommendation, or GRE /GMAT scores. Applicants with 9 or more letter-graded graduate credits must have a bare minimum graduate GPA of 3.0, which supersedes the UG GPA.

• SOP: May be required by specific programmes
• Letter of recommendation: May be required by specific programmes
• Academic transcripts (translated into English): Required
• Standardised test scores (GRE/GMAT/LSAT): May be required by specific programmes
• Proof of proficiency in English test score: Required (If you're a non-native English speaker or have not completed your graduation from an English-speaking country)
• Minimum scores required: TOEFL (IBT) min score: 80 (overall), sub-scores: 18 in reading and writing IELTS (Academic) min score - 6.5 (overall), sub-scores: 6.5 in reading and writing Academic PTE min score: 60 Duolingo min score: 120
• Proof of finances: Required
• Resume/CV: May be required by specific programmes
• Minimum scores/UG GPA: 2.75 Listed below is the estimated expenditure potentially incurred by international students over a year while pursuing their graduate programmes:

For on-campus students: Housing and food Student loan fee Books and materials Transportation Other living expenses Personal expenses

For off-campus students: Housing and food Books and materials Transportation Other living expenses Personal expenses

Job placements

PSU - College of Liberal Arts and Sciences offers robust job placements and comprehensive career services through workshops and networking events such as Job Search 101, internships, job search platforms such as Handshake, career counselling services, and resources to prepare for interviews, write resumes, and build networks. The university provides tailored support for students' professional growth by hosting annual career fairs. One important career fair worth attending is All Majors Career Fair: This fair helps international students gain insights into various industries, network with potential employers, and explore job or internship opportunities.

• Top employers: Intel, Nike, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Google, Adidas
• Median salary: $51,000 2 years after graduation

Prodigy Finance international student loans

Prodigy Finance offers borderless financing to international students. There is no need to provide guarantors, collateral, or cosigners. Furthermore, there are no hidden fees! Our loan facilities include no penalties for early repayment and a 6-month grace period after graduating from full-time study.

Realise your dream with a Master’s programme from Portland State University - College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Learn more about Prodigy Finance - if you have further questions, you can also join a webinar, visit our FAQs, or chat to a student mentor about their study abroad experience.

The purpose of this page is to provide prospective students with basic information about the school and a selection of courses offered by the school. Whilst we have carefully compiled the overview, Prodigy Finance does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, mistakes, omissions or outdated information in the guide and we encourage prospective students and other readers to consult the school's website for further information. Prodigy Finance does not have any affiliation or contractual arrangement with the school, unless stated. If you are a student and need more information about applying for a loan, please contact us at info@prodigyfinance.com. Any other queries about this page can be sent to schoolsupport@prodigyfinance.com.