FAQ Graduate Admission | University of Pittsburgh Department of Chemistry

Can I submit a paper application?
            We are no longer accepting paper applications. You can apply online by visiting our web page at www.chem.pitt.edu. Click on "Education" and then "Interested in Applying?". Follow the instructions for either domestic or international applications.

What is the University of Pittsburgh's school code for GRE score reports?
            2927

What is the department code for GRE score reports?
            0301 -- General Chemistry. This code is sufficient to reach our department. You do not need to break it down into divisions of chemistry.

What is the department code for TOEFL score reports?
            62

Will you accept photocopies of GRE and TOEFL score reports?
            Yes. We will verify the scores with ETS.

Should I send my supporting application material to the department or graduate admissions?
            Everything should be sent to the following address:

            Graduate Program Administrator
            University of Pittsburgh
            Department of Chemistry
            234 Chevron Science Center
            Pittsburgh, PA 15260

Must I send original transcripts or will you accept copies until I am admitted?
            Yes, you should make arrangements to have original official transcripts sent to the department.

Must I have a TOEFL test score report if I get a degree from a U.S. institution?
            No, you will not need a TOEFL if you have a Bachelors or Masters degree from a U.S. school.

Do you require a recommendation form?
            No. There is a form online that can be used. Alternatively, your recommender can send a signed letter on letterhead stationery.

What is the QPA requirement?
            The university requires a 3.00 QPA or higher in the most recently earned degree for you to be awarded a Teaching Assistantship.

What are the minimum GRE, subject GRE and TOEFL requirements?
            We do not have a minimum score requirement for the GRE and subject GRE. The Admissions Committee evaluates your entire file. We do, however, have a minimum for the TOEFL. You must receive a minimum of 600 (paper), 250 (computer) or 100 (IBT). TOEFL scores over two years old are not acceptable.

Must I take the subject GRE?
            We do require the general and subject GRE tests to be taken. Failure to take the subject test will severely decrease your chances of being admitted, as almost all applicants take the exam and report a score.

When will decisions be made?
            The Admissions Committee does not start evaluating files until after the deadline of February 1^st.

Is my file complete?
            Complete files include:

            Online application
            Personal statement
            Official transcripts from each school attended
            3 letters of recommendation
            General GRE, Subject GRE and TOEFL scores (if applicable)
            Supplemental Application (if applicable)

How will I know if my file is complete?
            Once the committee starts evaluating files, emails will be sent to the applicants that have incomplete files. Specific information will be requested in order to complete your application. It is to your advantage to get this information to us as soon as possible.

What is the size of your department?
            Our department consists of the following:
                        ~29 Research Faculty
                        ~6 Lecturers
                        ~180 Graduate Students
                        ~35 Postdocs
                        ~40 staff

How many students will be admitted?
            It is very hard to determine how many students will be admitted in any given year. This largely depends on the quality of the applicant pool.

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Education | Graduate | FAQ Graduate Admission

Frequently asked application questions