What documents are required for my application to a US master's program, including academic records, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency?

For your US master's application, you will generally need to submit academic transcripts, a degree certificate, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a resume and English proficiency scores, though exact requirements vary by university and department. Some universities accept unofficial documents at the application stage and only request official copies after you are admitted.

Core Documents for a US Master's Application

Documents You Will Need Later, for the Visa

• Form I-20: issued by your school after admission, this is required before you apply for your F-1 visa.
• SEVIS fee (I-901): paid separately, before your visa interview.
• Financial documentation: proof of funds is usually required before your school issues the I-20, and again during your visa application.

My Advice

Do not assume you are automatically exempt from TOEFL or IELTS just because your bachelor's was taught in English; many universities require a formal medium-of-instruction certificate from your college to grant that exemption. Prepare your full document checklist university by university rather than using one generic list, since requirements around GRE, recommendation letters and test exemptions genuinely differ between programs.