1. Is financial aid available to international students?
Most students are admitted with offers of financial support, either in the form of an assistantship or, for highly qualified individuals, fellowships. A list of additional sources of funding is provided by the Graduate School. Financial aid, in the form of government-backed loans and/or grants, is not available to international students.
2. As an international student, am I required to take the TOEFL exam?
The TOEFL exam is a required part of the admissions process for international students whose first language is not English. Purdue requires a 550 minimum score on the paper-based test, a 213 minimum score on the computer-based test, or a 77 minimum score on the new iBT test. Most successful applicants to the School of Pharmacy Graduate Programs have TOEFL scores in excess of 600.
3. How soon will I hear about my application status?
Different schools and departments have different timelines for responding to applicants. While we make every effort to ensure that our applicants receive a response in a timely manner, some departments do not make admissions decisions until they know the amount of financial support that they will have available, which is typically after February 1.
4. Do you offer a Ph.D. in Economics?
We offer a Ph.D. degree in Pharmacy Administration with a concentration in Pharmaceutical Economics. This degree program is not associated with Purdue's School of Management. This program is not intended for those who seek a Ph.D. in Economics. The School of Pharmacy does not offer a Ph.D. in Economics.
5. I cannot afford the application fee. Can it be waived or can I pay the fee after you review my file and I have been admitted?
No. The application fee must be paid before your application will be reviewed.
6. I only have one set of transcripts from my native country. Do I have to submit originals?
Yes, the Purdue University Graduate School requires original, official transcripts; photocopies and notarized copies are not acceptable. Students may request the originals be returned to them after graduation by submitting a written request to the graduate school. If the transcript does not show that the degree has been awarded, then you must provide official copies of your diploma, both in the original language and an official English translation.
7. How long will it take to obtain a M.S. or a Ph.D. degree?
The normal length of time to obtaining a Ph.D. degree is five years. This varies among students and departments. For departments that offer a M.S. degree prior to the Ph.D., the length of time to both degrees is approximately five years.
8. Can I apply off-line?
No, an electronic application is the only way to apply. However, before completing that application, make sure that you meet the minimum application criteria for the department to which you are applying.
9. Can I pay the application fee by credit card?
You may pay by credit card when you submit your application. If you do not have a credit card, the $55.00 fee must be paid by check or money order payable in U.S. dollars as specified in the Graduate school instructions about the application fee in their FAQ. Your application will not be reviewed until it is complete and the application fee has been paid.
10. If I do not have the money to pay the application fee, can someone else pay it for me?
Yes, they can. However, they must make certain that your name and ID number (if known) are on the check to ensure that the check is credited to the proper account. The fee must be paid before you can complete the on-line application.
11. What are the deadlines for applying for an international student?
A completed application must be received six weeks before these dates:
Semester for entering program
Students that are outside of the U.S.
Students already attending an institution within the U.S.
Summer*
March 15
May 1
Fall
May 15
July 15
Spring*
October 15
December 1
*The department of MCMP only admits students in the Fall.
