Frequently-Asked Questions about Admission
What GRE scores are required for admission to the PhD program?
Successful applicants at the PhD level generally post GRE scores (combined) of 1200 or higher and a writing score above 3.5.
What GRE scores are required for admission to the MA program?
Successful applicants at the MA level score 1150 or higher (combined verbal and quantitative scores) and a writing score above 3.5.
What additional exams are required for non-English speaking students for admission to the MA program?
Students whose native language is not English should submit scores on either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Minimimum scores are:
- TOEFL - 550 (PBT) or 80 (iBT)
- IELTS - overall band score of 6.5 with no individual band below a 6.0
What essays required as part of the application?
As part of the online application, applicants must submit responses to the following questions:
- What specialty in geography do you wish to pursue, and why?
- Describe the aspects of your education that will enable you to pursue this specialty.
- What additional training do you feel you can obtain at Arizona State University to realize your education and career goals?
- Please provide other information (for example: research experience or information which might be drawn from your resume) that you feel we should consider in your application for admission.
A personal statement does not substitute for responses to these questions.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Owing to the time it takes to process applications, we recommend that you complete your application by January 15, 2010 for best consideration of acceptance. For Ph.D. applicants, you should complete your application by this date in order to be considered for financial aid from ASU.
