To apply to the SDS doctoral program, download the application (PDF), fill it out, and mail it in. You will also need to have letters of recommendation accompanied by a Graduate Appraisal Form. The deadline to apply for the term beginning fall of 2010 is December 15, 2009. Read on for some frequently asked questions.
Application basics
- How do I get an application?
Click on the links at the right to access the Graduate Application and Graduate Appraisal Forms needed to apply to our doctoral programs. There is no method for applying online.
- What should be in my application?
The application form lists all of the required information. You must submit the completed application form, official transcripts of all college or university work to date, an official copy of your GRE scores sent to us from ETS, three letters of recommendation, a Graduate Appraisal form completed by each of your recommenders, a 2-page essay, a check or money order for the $45 application fee, an official copy of your TOEFL scores if English is not your first language, your resume/vita and (optional) a sample of your writing.
Transcripts: Transcripts must arrive in the original, sealed university envelopes with the registrar's signature/stamp across the seal of the envelope. If transcripts are sent open or unsealed, they will not be considered official.
TOEFL scores: If English is not your native language, even if you have lived or studied in the United States, you must submit an official copy of your TOEFL scores. These scores must be sent to us directly by ETS to be considered official.
- Where should I send my application materials?
Graduate Admissions, Department of Social and Decision Sciences
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Avenue, BP 208
Pittsburgh PA 15213-3890.
- Can I send some of my application materials separately?
Please send all of your materials together: application, payment, letters of recommendation. Sending application materials separately will delay the processing and review of your application. However, if necessary, letters of recommendation can be sent separately.
- What are you looking for in the application materials?
We consider your GPA, research experience, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and other available information in our admissions decisions. We accept the candidates with the best background and fit to the department. We don't have cut-off scores for GRE, GPA, or TOEFL, but our program is highly competitive.
- If I applied last year, can you just use the same application this year?
If you are applying for the second time, please send us a new application.
Deadlines and fees
- Can I pay my application fee by cash, credit card, or wire transfer?
No. We accept only a check or money order, or a bank draft for international students. Your application fee must accompany your application.
- Can the application fee be waived?
No. We cannot waive the application fee.
- When is the deadline?
All application materials should be received by December 15, 2009. Application materials received after this date will be considered only subject to space and funding availability.
GRE, TOEFL
- What are the institution and department codes for the GRE?
Our GRE institution code is 2074. Our GRE department code is 2299.
- What are the institution and department codes for the TOEFL?
Our TOEFL institution code is 2074. Our TOEFL department code is 92. Note: For internet-based TOEFL exams, our Department Code is 80.
- Can I send a photocopy of my GRE or TOEFL scores?
No, you must have official scores sent to us from ETS.
- Do you accept other language proficiency tests besides TOEFL?
No, we accept only the TOEFL language test.
- If I took the GRE or TOEFL more than once, which scores will count?
We count the latest scores.
- Do you ever waive the GRE for applicants who have already taken the GMAT or the TOEFL for international applicants who have studied in the U.S.?
No, we don't waive the GRE or the TOEFL requirements.
- When do GRE and TOEFL scores expire?
ETS keeps GRE scores for 5 years, and TOEFL scores for 2 years. We require that ETS send us your scores; if ETS no longer has your scores then you will have to retake the test(s).
- I've lived and/or studied in the US. Do I still have to take the TOEFL?
Yes. If English is not your native language, even if you have lived or studied in the United States, you must submit an official copy of your TOEFL scores. These scores must be sent to us directly by ETS to be considered official.
How will I know when...
- How will I know that you received my application?
You will receive an email message from us within 2-4 weeks of receiving your application packet.
- When will I find out whether or not I got into the program?
Final admission decisions will be made by April 15, 2010.
Program statistics
- How many people apply to your graduate program?
We usually receive 60-80 applications each year.
- How many students do you usually admit to your graduate program?
We usually admit 4-5 graduate students each year.
Graduate student stipends
- Do you offer a stipend and tuition coverage?
Yes. We offer a 9-month stipend and tuition coverage. Over the summer, our students tend to find work as research assistants.
General program questions
- What is the difference between the BDR program and the Joint Program between BDR and Psychology?
Both programs are similar, but students in the Joint Program are also admitted to the Psychology program. The BDR program includes a number of elective courses. Students in the Joint Program with Psychology take their elective courses in the Psychology Department.
- How do I apply to the Joint Program between BDR and Psychology?
Students interested in the joint Psychology/BDR program are invited to apply at the end of their first year of SDS graduate studies. The application involves a short proposal for a second year paper and dissertation that is truly joint between the two departments, as indicated by co-chairs. The application will have to be approved by both departments. Students who graduate from this program will receive a joint degree from BDR and psychology.
- If I don't have a background in one of your main disciplines, can I still get in?
Yes. Many of our department members were originally trained in only one of the disciplines. In the graduate program, you will be given the opportunity to take classes in these disciplines.
- Can I study in the program as a part-time student?
No. Our PhD program is full-time, so students are not able to study part-time.
- Who should I contact if I have a question that was not addressed in this FAQ?
Please contact the Department of Social and Decision Sciences: (sds-phd@andrew.cmu.edu).
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Application deadline is December 15, 2009.
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