Home to some of the world’s most admirable universities, the USA is unquestionably a popular study destination and an educational hotspot.
Thousands of international students apply to the USA every year for various courses and programs.
While most people believe that only students with excellent academic scores can apply to the US, let’s break this myth.
Many students study in the US with backlogs at the best universities.
A backlog has been considered a setback by many aspiring students, thus making them miss out on many opportunities. But that’s not the case.
The USA educational system is opening up to students with backlogs, not making it a setback for students in building their careers.
While it is clear that backlogs don’t stop you from pursuing MS in the US, you will need a backlog certificate to get an admission.
A backlog certificate states the number of backlog papers and the number of attempts you made to clear your exam. This certificate is to be submitted to your desired university while applying.
Also Read: Backlog Certificate: What It Is and How to Get One
List of US Universities Accepting Backlogs, Number of Backlogs Allowed for MS in the USA and the Application Process
Backlogs are simply caused by a student’s inability to pass an exam. Other reasons, such as irregular attendance, or absence from an exam due to personal or health issues, may simply be marked as absent. However, second attempts can easily clear backlogs, provided you work harder and remain focused.
Some of the deciding conditions for students with backlogs in US universities are:
- GPA/CGPA: Possessing a high GPA/CGPA will automatically act as a primary factor for assessment, regardless of your backlogs. To achieve a high CGPA despite your backlog, it is important to score well consistently, as you will be evaluated based on it.
- Course or subject of backlog: The other important factor for admission is to clear your backlog soon. Especially if you wish to pursue the same subject or course that you failed earlier. However, the backlog will cause no harm if you apply to a different course.
- Time: The time taken to clear backlogs, such as a semester or the number of years and the number of attempts, is a crucial factor too. For instance, if you have a single backlog that was cleared in the first attempt can increase your chance of being accepted.
- Status of backlog: The final condition during your admission is the number of active or inactive backlogs. A backlog certificate will indefinitely declare all related records. Some US universities do not accept active backlogs for applications.
It is necessary to mention here that prestigious USA universities, such as the Ivy League, do not accept students with active backlog status. Hence, students must produce a no-backlogs certificate to make the admission process effortless.
Find US universities that match your profile and backlog history – AI-powered, free. Explore on GradRight
How Many Backlogs Are Allowed for MS in the USA?
A master’s or MS in the US is a popular choice of study in the US. But, if you have backlogs, check out how many backlogs are allowed for MS in the US. To study MS in the US with backlogs, a minimum of 5 backlogs to a maximum of 15 backlogs are allowed. Do keep in mind that the educational sphere of the US is highly competitive; this is why it is not always the first choice for every university in the USA to accept backlogs. While MS in the USA with 15 backlogs is entertained considerably, any applicant with more than 15 backlogs won’t be considered in any US university. Nonetheless, students with backlogs can keep their worries aside now and apply to the US universities listed below.
Best USA Universities Accepting Backlogs for MS
Note: The list below reflects publicly available information. Always verify current backlog acceptance policy directly with the university admissions office before applying for 2026 intakes.
‘Golden State University, California’ has been removed from the list below – this institution does not appear in standard SEVP/DHS-certified university databases. Please verify and replace with a confirmed accredited institution before publishing.
| University | Backlogs Accepted |
| Marist College, New York | Up to 5 |
| Wichita State University, Kansas | Up to 5 |
| Kent State University, Ohio | Up to 5 |
| Clarkson University, New York | Up to 5 |
| Gannon University, Pennsylvania | Up to 5 |
| Murray State University, Kentucky | Up to 8 |
| Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, Texas | Up to 8 |
| Florida Institute of Technology, Florida | Up to 8 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago | 5-10 |
| Pace University, New York | 5-10 |
| University of South Dakota, Vermillion | 5-10 |
| Missouri State University, Springfield | 5-10 |
| California State University, San Bernardino | 5-10 |
| Rowan University, New Jersey | 10-15 |
| Pittsburg State University, Kansas | 10-15 |
| Old Dominion University, Virginia | 10-15 |
F1 Student Visa 2025-26: Critical Updates for Indian Students
(1) Approval rate decline: Indian student F1 visa approvals declined approximately 69% in mid-2025. Apply with a strong financial profile and complete documentation.
(2) Visa Integrity Fee (October 2025): A mandatory $250 SEVP Visa Integrity Fee is now required, in addition to the $185 MRV fee. Total visa cost is approximately $785 including the SEVIS ($350) fee.
(3) I-20 and backlogs: If you have active backlogs at the time of admission, the university will NOT issue your I-20 form. Clear all backlogs before your I-20 is issued.
(4) OPT after graduation: MS graduates in STEM fields are eligible for 3 years of OPT (12 months standard + 24 months STEM extension). Backlogs do not affect OPT eligibility after graduation.
Applying for MS in the US with Backlogs
15 backlogs is the maximum number of backlogs you are allowed to study MS in US universities. While backlogs are a hindrance to admission abroad, a few factors compensate to help you get selected at the US university of your choice.
Some of the best ways to patch your backlogs with your excellence are:
- Participate in co-scholastic activities such as seminars, conferences, or any other competition.
- Engage in any other extra-curricular activities such as volunteering, community service, educational clubs, hobbies and passion etc.
- Succeeding in scoring a GRE score of 315 to 325 will considerably aid the student application process.
Despite your backlogs, outstanding GRE/GMAT scores increase your chances of getting selected at reputed universities. A backlog will not hold you back if you are a candidate with an outstanding profile, impressive academic scores, personality, catchy communication skills, and leadership qualities.
The application process for a student with a backlog is similar to that of any other application. The only difference is your application is the highlight of your backlogs. However, don’t hesitate to be honest in your application. This will help you defend your backlogs. Hiding your backlogs during your application process will only raise questions in the future, leading to the rejection of your admission.
Even if your backlog might make you nervous, being honest and positive about your future is the best way to approach your career.
Mandatory Documents Required for MS in USA with Backlogs
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- CV/Resume
- Bachelor’s Degree or any equivalent certificates, mark sheets
- Letter of Recommendation
- GRE/GMAT scorecards
- IELTS/TOEFL scorecards
- Statement of Purpose
- Certificates of extra-curricular activities
- Proof of Funds
- Backlogs clearance certificate
The important note to make here is that if you fail to clear your backlogs by the time of admission, the university will not issue the I20 form that will help you get a visa.
The university and visa interviews are the most important interviews to move abroad. Your first impression is the last impression. As you face these interviews, you will have to justify your backlogs. This is why you must prepare a solid response well ahead of the interview.
It is equally important to convince the interviewers of your seriousness in the field of academics. Talk about what caused your setbacks, how you have improved yourself and why you are fit for admission regardless of your backlogs.
We trust in your capabilities, so connect with GradRight advisors to help you with your admission abroad. Visit gradright.com.
Compare education loans from 18+ lenders for your US study journey. Explore Loans on GradRight
Also Read: Backlog Certificate Guide: What It Is and How to Get One
Also Read: UK Universities Accepting Backlogs 2026
Also Read: Australian Universities Accepting Backlogs 2026
Also Read: Universities in Canada Accepting Backlogs 2026
