Frequently Asked Questions Application Policy and Procedures Application Fee Supporting Materials Transcripts Standardized Tests Tracking Your Application Decisions, Deferrals and Reapplying Miscellaneous

When will I receive a decision on my application?

Notification of decisions for all Ph.D. applicants generally takes place by March. The notification of M.A. decisions varies by department and application deadlines. Although some M.A. decisions are sent out in early Spring, decisions may be rendered as late as July. Notifications are sent by the Office of Admissions of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and not by the individual departments.

What constitutes an official offer of admission?

Only the Dean of the Graduate School has the authority to make an offer of admission. A letter or email from a faculty member is not an official offer of admission. Only when you receive the official offer signed by the Dean of the Graduate School are you considered fully admitted.

Are admissions decisions made on a rolling-basis?

Ph.D. decisions are not made on a rolling basis. In some cases, admission to Free-standing MA programs may be rolling.

How can I apply for advanced standing?

Applicants do not apply for advanced standing. If you are admitted, the faculty will determine if advanced standing is warranted after you have enrolled. For more detailed information please click here.

If I am admitted, may I defer my admission?

No. The Graduate School does not grant deferrals of admission; you must reapply.

How do I reapply to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences?

If you are reapplying for the next academic year you must submit a new application and all new supporting documents,  with the exception of GRE and TOEFL tests scores which are kept on file in the admissions office for up to one year. 

Does GSAS require a deposit if I'm accepting the offer of admission?

No. GSAS does not require a deposit to hold your place in the program.

How will GSAS notify me of my admissions decision?

All notifications will be done via email.

Whom do I contact if I have questions about my admissions decision?

The Admissions Office is unable to provide that information since the decision-making process is solely the domain of the Faculty Admissions Committee at the department. If you want specific information, you should contact the department to which you applied. However, please be aware that it is not incumbent upon the department to provide this information. They may elect no to do so.