Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to apply?

There is no application fee to apply to our PhD program.

Do I need to send you official copies of my transcript?

No, we do not require official transcripts to apply to a program. If you are accepted into the program, you will have to request official transcripts to be sent to Tulane School of Science and Engineering before you register for your graduate coursework. The address and information required to submit official transcripts is included in the letters of admission.

Can I use my unofficial undergraduate transcript if I will be graduating in the near future?

Yes, you can use your current transcript. You must submit your transcript with the degree posted prior to beginning your graduate program. If you have not graduated with your bachelor's degree, your admission will be revoked, as you cannot work on your graduate degree unless you have already earned your undergraduate degree.

Can I submit my application if the recommenders have not uploaded their recommendation letters?

Yes, you need to submit your application. The application deadline applies to the applicant and not the recommenders/references. Your references/recommenders will be able to respond and upload their recommendation letters to your application after the deadline date.

Do I need to take the GRE?

The Chemistry Department and the School of Science and Engineering do not require GRE scores in order for you to submit your application for review by the department. However, you are allowed to report your GRE score if you took the GRE and wish to report your scores.

As an applicant from outside the USA, do I need to take the TOEFL or IELTS?

A TOEFL or IELTS score is recommended, but not required to submit your application. You do need to supply some form of ESL proficiency either by earning your Bachelor's or Master's degree from a US Institution or other English speaking program of study. We do not accept Duolingo test results.

ESL Proficiency Requirement: TOEFL - Score 90 OR IELTS - Score 7 OR Undergraduate Degree Education taught at English Speaking University.

Should I review the department websites?

Yes, you should take time to review the information regarding the graduate programs and admissions requirements that are found on our website. Each department may have additional information that they require during the application process.

When is the deadline for applications?

Deadlines for the Chemistry Department change each year. The upcoming dates can be found on the SSE deadline schedule. The deadline time is 11:59 PM Eastern time zone on the date that is given for the program.

When will I receive an updated status on my application?

You can check your status using the status portal that is created once you submit your application. The Chemistry Department begins making offers for fall admissions beginning in December of the year preceding the matriculation date. Most graduate admissions decisions are made on or before April 15th. (April 15th is the decision deadline that is common across many universities).

What type of funding can I receive?

All graduate students that are admitted are supported with a Teaching Assistantship stipend and are awarded a tuition waiver. Some highly qualified applicants may receive a limited service Fellowship offer.

Do you accept students for the spring semester?

We admit most students for the fall semester. However, a few students are typically admitted for the spring semester.

Can you apply to more than one program?

Yes, you can apply to more than one program. You will need to complete an application for each program. The Chemistry Department currently has a joint Chemical Physics program with the Physics Department.