Transparent Admissions Policies

Evaluation of applications by the Admissions Committee

Our admissions evaluation process follows 3 core tenets, using specific metrics to define excellence in each area:

1. Likelihood that the applicant can successfully complete the academic requirements to obtain a PhD from the NGP
   • Cumulative GPA and grades in STEM courses
   • Research and other work experiences
   • Writing skills
   • Reference feedback
2. Programmatic match with individual’s professional goals:
   • Relevance of coursework
   • Alignment of research interests and experience
   • Stated commitment to research
   • Reference feedback
3. Potential to contribute to institutional core values (provide link to iCare values):
   • Leadership
   • Reliability/dependability
   • Team work and service
   • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

These are the core assessment areas but our evaluations extend to consider other critical factors, including but not limited to considerations that cross categories: resilience, recovery from setbacks, effective adaptation to changing/stressful environments/situations

Facts about our Admissions Process

• There is no GRE score requirement
• There is no “triage” line for consideration
• Every application received before the deadline is read by faculty on the admissions committee
• The admissions committee has both faculty and student members
• Consistent evaluation rubrics (scores based on core tenets) are used for all applicants