Application FAQs

Deadline

Application deadline for the PhD Program 

Graduate Students in the PhD program begin in the Fall semester, and we don’t actively recruit a Spring Class.

Applications should be submitted with a priority date of December 1.  For full consideration, materials must be received by December 15.  Applications received thereafter will be reviewed, but may not receive full consideration due to space constraints.

Application deadline for the MS Program 

Although MS degrees can be obtained en route to the PhD, we don’t recruit an annual class of MS-seeking students.

GRE Exam

Is a GRE score required for admission?

The GRE scores are no longer required for admission. However, if you have taken the GRE, you may still submit your scores and they will be included with your application.

What is the school code for the University of Florida?

5812.

English Proficiency

What are the minimum English proficiency requirements?

The TOEFL or IELTS exam is required of applicants from countries where English is not the primary language. International students are exempt from the English proficiency requirement if you are from one of the countries listed here: http://www.admissions.ufl.edu/apply/international/countries.html.

Exemptions are granted if applicants:

  • Have successfully completed one academic year in a degree-seeking program at a UF-recognized/accredited university or college in the United States.
  • Have successfully completed one academic year in a degree-seeking program in a country where English is the only official language.
  • Have successfully completed one academic year in a degree-seeking program at a non-US institution in which English is the only official language of instruction (requires Graduate School approval).
  • Hold an earned equivalent of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degree from a UF-recognized/accredited college or university in the United States.
  • Hold an earned equivalent of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degree from a country where English is the only official language.
  • Hold an earned equivalent of associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degree from a non-US institution in which English is the only official language of instruction (requires Graduate School approval).

The University of Florida is required by Florida law to ensure all teaching faculty, including International Teaching Assistants (ITAs), are proficient in English. The three approved tests for oral proficiency are the TOEFL iBT (speaking ≥23), the IELTS Academic (speaking ≥7), and the UF SPEAK Test (≥45), which may be administered in an online format to students who are offered admission to the program. Duoloingo scores are not accepted.

For more information regarding international admissions, please click here.

Financial

All students in good standing are supported through teaching and research assistantships. Details will be provided in your offer of admission letter. International students must demonstrate English proficiency as explained above.

Can the application fee be waived?

The application fee is required by the university and cannot be waived by the department.

Does your department require the fellowship/assistantship application form?

No. Students admitted to our program will receive a graduate stipend (with the exception of those who come with their own funding, i.e. government scholarships, etc.).

Are master’s students supported?

Although MS degrees can be obtained en route to the PhD, we don’t recruit an annual class of MS-seeking students.

Do I need to provide a certificate of financial support when I submit my application?

No certificate of financial support is required with your application.

Application Supplements

How many transcripts should I provide?

Please provide one official transcript to:

University of Florida,
Department of Admissions Office
PO Box 114000,
Gainesville, FL 32611-4000.

For priority shipping, please mail to:

University of Florida
Department of Admissions Office
201 Criser Hall
Gainesville, FL 32611.

Can I upload a PDF of my transcript to my online application for review?

Yes, you can upload a scanned copy of your transcript(s) for review. For international students, be sure to include your degree certification when applicable. If made an offer to join our program, original documents must be received by UF Admissions prior to the start of your second semester.

Do I send a copy of my transcript to the department?

No.

Can I call to check to see if my transcripts have arrived?

Please allow 4-6 weeks for the Admission’s Office to process your transcripts. You can review the missing items by returning to your online application. You can obtain confirmation from your carrier (Federal Express, DHL, etc.) that the transcripts and supporting material have been received. If you have questions regarding your transcripts, please click on the “Contact Us” button in your online application.

Can recommenders send letters directly to the department?

Yes, however, it is preferable they submit their letter to your online application.

Can I submit other supplements online along with the required statement of purpose?

Yes, you can now submit a PDF version of other documentation you would like reviewed along with your application.

Faculty Support

Do I need to contact faculty and indicate my interest in their group?

No. Support from an individual faculty member is not required for admission.  The department has a graduate selection committee that reviews all applications.  You are welcomed and encouraged to contact the faculty if you are interested in their research.

Can I call the department to check the status of my application?

The recruiting season is a very busy time for our office. We prefer that you monitor the status of your application through the application website.