Psychology | College of Liberal Arts
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Admissions FAQs

PhD Program

Application

  • Do you require a writing sample?

    Yes, we do require a writing sample. It should be a 10-20 page, academic writing sample (e.g., senior or master’s thesis, term paper, publication).

  • What is the average GPA for admissions?

    You must have at least a 3.0 upper-division GPA. This typically includes junior and senior level classes and any graduate coursework. Our typical admitted student has a 3.5 GPA or higher.

  • Are International students required to take the TOEFL or IELTS exam?

    We require the TOEFL (Please do not submit the IELTS exam). You must have at least a 79 on the internet-based test (iBT). The institution code for UT Austin is 6882. International applicants who are from a qualifying country are exempt from this requirement. Additionally, applicants are exempt from the requirement if they possess a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. institution or a qualifying country. The requirement is not waived for applicants who have earned a master's—but not a bachelor's—degree from a similar institution.

  • Do you offer spring admission?

    No, we only admit students for fall semesters.

  • Who should write letters of recommendation?

    We require three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation are one of the most important pieces of your application. They should come from faculty that know you and can speak to your abilities. Help your recommender’s write a strong letter by giving them plenty of time and providing them with materials about you (CV, personal statement, etc).

  • How many students are admitted each year?

    Our admissions process is highly competitive. We receive over 600 applications each year, with around half applying to the clinical program. We accept less than 5% of the applicant pool. Faculty select students who are highly qualified on all admission criteria and who have expressed an interest in research that is congruent with their research programs.

  • I don’t have any research experience. Can I still apply to your program?

    Prior research experience is necessary to have a competitive application. Since we work using the mentorship system, a good match between faculty and student is based on the fit of the research of the faculty member and the previous experience that the applicant has had. We recommend that you look into acquiring experience through local universities, internships, lab work, etc.

  • I don’t have a background in Psychology. Can I still apply to your program?

    We do not require that your undergraduate degree be in Psychology. Our graduate students have a variety of majors; however, you should have adequate preparation in psychology (This typically includes upper-division psychology courses, a course in statistics, and a course in experimental methodology) as well as research experience.

  • I am interested in a Counseling program. Should I apply to your Clinical program?

    No. Our Clinical program is a “clinical scientist” model, focused on research. Our goal is to train academics and researchers. Those interested in the “clinical practitioner” model should look into the programs offered through The Department of Educational Psychology. They offer both the MA and PhD in Counseling.

  • Can the application fee be waived?

    U.S. citizens and permanent residents pursuing your first graduate degree, may be eligible for a fee waiver. We have a limited number of fee waivers available for International applicants.  If you need help paying the application fee, submit the International Application Fee Waiver Form by October 26, 2022. You must be applying to work with a faculty member from the approved recruiting list on our admissions page, demonstrate good research fit, and have a documented financial need.

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