Frequently Asked Questions
ALL APPLICANTS
What are the average GRE scores of incoming students?
The average GRE scores for the most recent incoming class were: Verbal 477 (54%); Quantitative 739 (80%); Analytical 4.0 (36%).
Is the GRE Chemistry Subject test required?
No, but it is recommended and may enhance your application.
Can I send copies of my GRE scores? What if I have not received my official scores?
If you have not received your official scores, you may send copies of your scores. However, in order to officially be accepted into the PhD program, you must submit official scores.
For how long are my GRE scores valid?
GRE scores are valid for up to 5 years.
When is the application deadline?
In order to be guaranteed financial support, applications must be received by January 15th. We will accept applications beyond this date, but financial support is not guaranteed.
How do I apply to the program?
All applications are submitted to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences via the following link (http://www.bu.edu/grs/academics/admissions/index.html).
Where should I send my supplemental application materials?
Transcripts, letters of recommendation and other supplemental application material should be mailed in one packet if possible, for the fastest possible processing, to the Admissions Office at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, 705 Commonwealth Avenue, Room 112, 705 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Is it possible to waive the application fee?
The application fee cannot be waived.
What level of support is offered?
All students who submit their applications prior to the January 15th deadline are guaranteed support for their first year as teaching fellows. A select number of outstanding first year students are also selected as Deans Fellows. Please see http://www.bu.edu/chemistry/gradadmissions/support/index.html for more details
When will you make admission decisions?
We generally begin reviewing applications in late December and expect to begin making offers by the end of January.
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
What is the minimum TOEFL score required for admission?
The minimum scores are set by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. We will consider all applications and will eventually conduct telephone interviews with prospective students to gauge their English language proficiency.
For how long are my TOEFL scores valid?
TOEFL scores are valid for up to 2 years.
Can I send copies of my TOEFL scores?
You may send copies of your scores, however, in order to officially be accepted into the PhD program, you must submit official scores.
Is it possible to contact current students in the chemistry department from my country?
Yes. In order to contact students, please e-mail Sarah Coenen, the Graduate Academic Administrator (scoenen@bu.edu).
Didn’t find the answer to your question here? The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences also maintains a highly informative FAQ on their website (http://www.bu.edu/grs/academics/faq/index.html). If you do not find your answer on this page or the GRS FAQ (above), please contact Sarah Coenen, the Graduate Academic Administrator (scoenen@bu.edu) for further information.