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Frequently Asked Questions
Please read first before starting the application process.
- How do I apply?
All students must apply using the Department of Chemistry on-line application system. Hard-copy applications are no longer accepted. If you use the Texas Common Application system, your application will be delayed. You are required to also complete the Department of Chemistry on-line application.
- What do I need to submit to apply to the Chemistry Graduate Program?
a. Apply Texas Online Application – www.applytexas.org
b. Chemistry Graduate Online Application - www.chem.uh.edu/Graduate/faq.shtml (at bottom of the page)
c. GRE exam scores (all applicants):
-send unofficial copies to Chemistry Department Graduate Advisor (see address below)
-send official copies send to University of Houston
d. TOEFL scores (international students only):
-send unofficial copies to Chemistry Department Graduate Advisor (see address below)
-send official copies send to University of Houston
e. 3 letters of recommendation:
-Please ask your references to send their letters via regular mail to Chemistry Department Graduate Advisor (see address below) or email to mbulloc3@mail.uh.edu.
-You should waive (or decline to waive) the confidentiality statement at the bottom of the recommendation form.
f. $75.00 application fee (international students only)
g. Official Sealed Transcripts from all colleges and universities attended (see mailing address below)
- What is the Chemistry Department address that I should send my unofficial GRE scores, TOEFL scores, $75.00 application fee (international applicants only), official sealed transcripts, and letters of recommendation to?
Graduate Advisor
University of Houston - Chemistry Department
4800 Calhoun Road
136 Fleming Building
Houston Texas 77204-5003
- Is there a minimum TOEFL score?
Yes – the minimum scores are as follows.
213 – Computer Based Test
550 – Paper Based Test
79 – Internet Based Test
6.5 – IELTS
These minimum scores are set by the University. Applicants with scores below these minimums will not be admitted.
- Is there a minimum GPA?
Yes – for domestic applicants your Overall and Chemistry GPA should be at least 3.0 out of 4.0 (B average).
- What is the deadline for application?
The admissions committee usually meets 3 – 4 times, mid-January, mid-February, mid-March, and early April, and makes admission offers soon after each meeting. At each meeting we examine complete files. The earlier we receive your application, the sooner we can evaluate your application. Applications received after March 1st are at a distinct disadvantage.
- What about financial assistance?
ALL students who are admitted into the Graduate Program in the Department of Chemistry are AUTOMATICALLY given a teaching assistantship. The monthly stipend for this assistantship is ~ $1900. There is no need to apply for financial aid once you are admitted to the graduate program in the Department of Chemistry.
- How many students are admitted each year into the Graduate Program in the Department of Chemistry?
This number varies from year to year, but typically the Department of Chemistry makes ~ 40-50 offers. Typically 25-35 students accept our offer. We usually receive 150 – 200 applications per year.
- What are my chances of being accepted into the Graduate Program in the Department of Chemistry?
Each application is examined individually with respect to the other applicants.
- I have not taken / do not have my GRE and/or TOEFL scores yet. Can I still apply?
Yes, but you must arrange for ETS (Educational Testing Service) to send us the scores directly. The ETS code for the Department of Chemistry at the University of Houston is 06870 - University Park Campus. We will not, however, be able to decide on your application until we receive your scores.
- What about the application fee?
The application fee is $75 for international applicants. There is no application fee for domestic applicants. This fee cannot be paid on-line or by credit card. You must send a check or a money order payable to the Department of Chemistry.
- What criteria are used to admit students?
The Graduate Committee looks at a student’s grades, recommendation letters, and GRE and TOEFL scores. The student’s personal statement is also read.
- Is the TSE, Test of Spoken English, required?
No. The TSE is not required.
- Is the Chemistry subject GRE required?
No. The Chemistry subject GRE is recommended, but not required.
- Can I apply for the Spring semester?
No. The Department of Chemistry no longer admits students in the Spring semester. All graduate students must start in the Fall semester (mid-August).
- Will contacting individual faculty members help me get admitted?
No. ALL admission decisions are made by committee and not individual faculty.
- What about choosing a research advisor?
If you are admitted, you have until the beginning of your second semester (end of January) to find a research advisor. Thus, you will have nearly five (5) months after arriving at the University of Houston to find a research advisor.
PLEASE NOTE THAT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE VOLUME OF
APPLICATIONS, WE ARE UNABLE TO PROVIDE SPECIFIC
ANSWERS REGARDING UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS.
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