Late GRE Scores

What happens if my GRE scores come in after the deadline?

I've been asked a couple times what happens if GRE scores are not received until after the deadline. The answer to this will depend on a few details, such as how late they are received, but generally I would say that this is all determined by the program. How each program views late submission of items will differ but you want to keep in mind that the earlier they have a complete view of your application the better. If we are talking a matter of days, I would not be concerned with this but if you are concerned please contact your program coordinator. 

GRE Scores on the Berkeley-specific application

I have been receiving many emails in regards to the fact that their official scores are not showing up as received. Just this year the graduate division implemented the new online application system you are currently using, and while it's a great system, there are still a lot of unknowns. As is turns out, your scores will never show officially received by Berkeley if you sent them to the 4227 GRE code...BUT DON'T WORRY! This is the correct code, and as long as your scores show received on the SOPHAS application, then you are just fine. The problem stems from the fact that we had to create a new GRE code to be sent to SOPHAS which the Berkeley online application system does not recognize. We apologize for any confusion but rest assured, if you sent your scores to 4227 and SOPHAS shows they are received, then you are fine.

Do I need to compensate for SOPHAS processing time and turn my application in early?

I've been receiving many emails asking about SOPHAS processing time and whether you need to turn your application in early to compensate for this time, and the answer is NO.

SOPHAS does mention this processing time so that's applicants have an understanding that there is not an immediate turn around when submitting the application, however this is also creating some confusion. The only deadline date you need to remember is December 2, 2011. We are aware of this time and have built it into our review process. Keep in mind that all materials need to be at SOPHAS by this date but there is no need to submit early to compensate for processing.

UPDATE: 9/28/12- Due to several issues last year we are now recommending turning in the SOPHAS application by early November, if possible. There is no penalty if you turn in your application on December 3rd (the 2012 deadline) however if SOPHAS does need to to fix something on your application, with the initial 3-4 week verification time and an additional 3-4 weeks after you fix the problem then it can too late for review by the time we receive your application. Please note turning it in early does not mean we will review your application before the December 3rd deadline, only that it will allow you time to make sure your application is received on time.

Should I apply to graduate school straight from my undergraduate institution or should I take time to work for a year or two?

When weighing the decision to apply to graduate school straight from your undergraduate institution or gain work experience, it is a good idea to research the programs you are interested in applying to. Some programs will find work experience quite beneficial, some may require a minimum number of years of work experience, while still others may say that work experience is completely unnecessary. I highly recommend contacting the program coordinators for the program you are interested in as the are invaluable resources when it comes to knowing exactly what makes a competitive applicant.

When should I submit my application?

We are often asked if there is any advantage to submitting an application early and my answer is that the advantage is entirely to the applicant. Preparing to submit your application early will give you the time to check for completeness and give you a buffer should anything be delayed. There is no advantage in terms of how the admissions committee will view you. This is because SOPHAS will not release your application to us until after the application deadline. Once the deadline passes, SOPHAS will verify your information and then release your application to UC Berkeley's School of Public Health. So my advice is start preparing early, double check everything and submit by the deadline.

Merit-based funding support

I see that you have some merit-based support. How do I apply for those awards?

At UC Berkeley's School of Public Health we have a handful of merit-based scholarships available to those who have shown academic excellence. How do I get nominated for one of these scholarships you ask? Well, there is no specific nomination process or extra work needed to be nominated. When the admission committee is reviewing files, they are also looking for possible candidates for financial aid. They already know what pools of money they have available to them and will mark applications as being good for this scholarship, or good for that fellowship. So the quick answer is....submit the strongest application possible. This includes submitting a focused statement of purpose, strong letters of recommendation, good GRE scores and good grades. 

PhD Applicants: What to know before you apply.

Though each program is different, and I recommend talking to an individual program coordinator, there are some generalities when it comes to filling out the application.

1. Research - Have an idea what you would like to do when you get here. It doesn't have to be a fully formed thesis, just know what direction you'd like to explore. Which leads nicely to...
2. Faculty - It's a good idea to research the faculty and have a couple ideas of who you'd like to work with. Make sure they are doing research which falls in line with what you'd like to be doing. I like to say that you'll be using their research as a springboard for your own.
3. Statement of Purpose - This is where you let us know about who'd you like to work with and what you'd like to do. This helps the admissions committee direct your application and shows you've done your homework.

So what if you have many faculty who you'd like to work with, or a handful of ideas that all seem really promising as research projects? This is where I recommend talking to the program coordinators. They will know their faculty best, and be able to help you think critically about who and what you'd like to do while at Berkeley. It may even be possible to be co-advised or pursue an interdisciplinary track to your research.  Remember, we understand you're in the application phase and fully expect that your ideas may change throughout your graduate career, you just need to consider the best fit for yourself.

How do I make up for a shortcoming in my application?

A very common question asked is, "How do I makeup for low GPA/GRE/experience in my application? Is it even worth applying?" The answer is YES!

Just as in life, you need to focus on the good. If you have a low GPA, be sure to study hard for the GRE's, pick letter writers you know will write glowing recommendations, and shine a spotlight on any work/volunteer experience you might have. Often there is an explanation for the shortcoming and this can be touched on in the Personal Statement. But again, keep your explanation succinct and focus on how you overcame this obstacle.  While there is no guarantee that this will gain you admissions it is a good tactic for focusing your application to give yourself the best chance possible.