Physics is the fundamental natural science that seeks to understand how the universe works at all scales—from subatomic particles and quantum phenomena to galaxies and cosmology—using observation, experimentation, and mathematical reasoning. It provides the theoretical foundation for understanding matter, energy, forces, and motion, with applications ranging from everyday technologies to cutting-edge innovations in computing, energy, and materials science.

Admission to the graduate program normally requires a GPA of 3.0 or higher overall and in physics at the time of admission (normally at the beginning of the junior year). Application may be made using the standard form for graduate admission available through the SSE website (sse.tulane.edu) and payment of the $45 application fee. Only one letter of recommendation is required, and the GRE is not required for this 4+1 program. Application for the PhD program is separate from the 4+1 program.

We accept students from many foreign countries, including China and India.

The GRE General Exam is required for all applicants. The GRE Physics subject exam is strongly recommended, but not required, for applicants to the Physics Ph.D. Program. The TOEFL exam is required for all applicants who are non-native English speakers.

We have no minimum required GRE scores. We do have a minimum TOEFL score of 80. The test scores are used, along with other indicators such as GPA and recommendation letters, to make relative comparisons of applicants. We look for a complete picture in the application to find the students who we think will fit in best in our department. Test scores are just one part of that picture.

Every applicant is automatically considered for a TA, RA, or fellowship. Most admitted students are offered a TA position. Fellowships are available for exceptional applicants in the Physics program. RA positions may also be available in some research groups.

We usually receive over 100 qualified applications. Approximately 20% are offered admission.

Our staff is not able to provide individual advice or review your qualifications, other than through the admissions process. We encourage you to submit an application and assure you that every application will receive full consideration in due time.

We can accept unofficial TOEFL and GRE scores, such as photocopies of ETS score reports, at the time of your application. We will use the unofficial scores to make the admission decisions. However, if you are admitted and decide to enroll at Tulane, you will need to submit the official ETS scores.

All graduate students are required to carry health insurance, either through the Tulane plan or privately. In the Tulane plan, the student is responsible for paying a 50% portion of their health insurance, which is about $669 per semester. The School of Science and Engineering subsidizes the other 50% of the health insurance premium.

Please see the Research section of our website for a description of the research groups in our department.

Graduate students in the department receive financial assistance through teaching assistantships, research assistantships, tuition scholarships, University loans, and Louisiana Board of Regents Fellowships.

Research assistantships are provided by a student's faculty research advisor and are available at the advisor's discretion. Stipend amounts and durations are decided by the advisor, although the research assistantship is normally accompanied by a tuition waiver.

A small number of summer teaching assistantships are normally available, and are usually reserved for students with special circumstances.