What is the deadline for admission with financial support?
The priority deadline for admission with departmental support is January 15. If a student does not require financial support, we may consider applications for summer or fall admission as late as August.
What is needed to apply?
We require transcripts of undergraduate and graduate work along with three letters of recommendation and a Personal Statement. For PhD students, we require a close match of student and advisor interests. A campus visit is encouraged, but international applicants may be interviewed via Zoom.
Is it necessary to secure a supervisor before applying?
Yes. For PhD applicants, identifying and communicating with a potential advisor is essential for a successful application.
Is funding available for Master’s students?
Generally, we do not offer full financial support for Master’s students, except in rare or exceptional cases. We offer Master’s programs for working professionals in Environmental Geosciences. Master’s students without support are eligible for hourly work in the department.
What is a Personal Statement?
This is a professional document (1–2 pages) outlining your research interests, goals, and preferred faculty advisors. It should clearly state what you wish to study, why, and with whom. Background information and the development of your academic interests are welcome, but the focus should remain on your research direction.
Do I need a WES evaluation or is an English-language transcript sufficient?
If your university transcript is in a language other than English, please have your international college transcripts evaluated by a NACES-approved translation service such as World Education Services (WES) so that Rutgers may begin your credit evaluation.
Can I submit unofficial transcripts with my application?
Yes, unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial review. However, official transcripts will be required for final admission.
How can I request an application fee waiver based on merit or financial hardship?
Prospective students should first contact a potential advisor. If the advisor supports the request, they may write to the Graduate Program Director (GPD) recommending a waiver. The GPD can then approve and cover the fee using departmental funds.
When can I start my application?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. For full consideration with support, submit by January 15 for fall admission. We recommend contacting potential advisors during the fall semester.
Are GRE and English proficiency tests required?
We do not require the GRE.
International applicants who earned degrees in non-English-speaking countries must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. A minimum TOEFL score of 80 is expected. Applicants who studied in the U.S. may be exempt.
What funding opportunities are available for PhD students?
We offer competitive 5-year support packages for top PhD applicants, including Teaching Assistantships (TA), Fellowships, and externally funded Graduate Assistantships (GA), subject to availability. We strongly encourage applicants to reach out to potential faculty advisors to discuss funding options. Advisors may also assist in securing external fellowships such as the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP): https://www.nsfgrfp.org
Where can I learn more?
Please visit our website https://eps.rutgers.edu/academics/graduate/graduate-program for detailed information. Our teaching assistantships and most fellowships are provided by Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences. You will be applying to the Rutgers School of Graduate Studies through the Rutgers Graduate and Professional Admissions portal https://rutgers.my.site.com/ApplicantPortal/AppPortalCustom