Frequently Asked Questions for Prospective Students
What is the minimum GPA Required for admission to the UF graduate physics program?
Applicants with a GPA* below 3.25 should be really exceptional in some other area (e.g. research) to be given full consideration. University of Florida Graduate School regulations prevent us from admitting applicants with a GPA below 3.0.
Is there a minimum GRE Score on either the general test or subject test?
The University of Florida Graduate School sets a minimum score of 1000 for the combined V+A (verbal + quantitative) score on the GRE general test. There is no official minimum on the GRE subject (physics) test, but we have rarely accepted anyone below 540. Note the general GRE is required from all applicants for admission, and the physics GRE is strongly recommended. We will consider your application in the absence of a physics GRE score, but you will be at a disadvantage with respect to students who have presented this score.
Is there a minimum TOEFL score?
The minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score for admission is set by the University of Florida Graduate School at 550.
Do I have to take the TSE before I arrive?
We would prefer you take the Test of Spoken English (TSE) before you arrive, if not, you may take it upon arrival.
Will I receive a scholarship if I am accepted?
The Department of Physics at the University of Florida provides a living stipend to all students admitted to the graduate program. Currently this stipend is US $19,000 for teaching assistants and $16,500 for grading assistants (who have not yet passed the TSE). On very rare occasions we have accepted students who financed the intial year(s) of their graduate study, but we discourage this. Fellowships which enable students to concentrate on studies and research are available in limited number, and all applicants will automatically be considered for such fellowships without having to make a separate application.
How many students do you usually accept each year?
In recent years we have accepted between 25 and 30 students each year. In all years in the graduate program there are currently 124 students.
What percentage of International students do you accept?
A rough average over the last several years gives approximately 50% international students.
Do I have to pay the $30 Registration fee?
You must pay the $30 registration fee or your application cannot be considered. We do not waive fees for students under any circumstances. If you have a friend in the United States, he/she can pay your fee for you.
How many years do students in the UF program typically take to complete their degree?
5.5 years, on average
What is a Ronald McNair Scholars?
The UF McNair Scholars Program, named in honor of Dr. Ronald E. McNair (an African-American engineer, scientist and astronaut who perished in the 1986 explosion of the space shuttle Challenger) exists to support undergraduate college students from low-income, first-generation and underrepresented backgrounds in their progress towards a doctoral degree (US citizens only). More information is available at: http://gradschool.rgp.ufl.edu/diversity/mcnair.html
What is the FAMU feeder program and am I eligible?
The Florida A&M University (FAMU) Feeder Program matches qualified FAMU graduates, interested in pursing advanced degrees (particularly doctorates), with one of the three to five admission/financial aid packages reserved for them at 47 graduate degree-granting institutions each year. If you qualify for this program, additional details are located at: http://gradschool.rgp.ufl.edu/diversity/famu-feeder.html
What is distance learning?
Courses for credit taken over the worldwide web. The physics program does NOT offer such courses as part of its graduate program.
What is a joint degree program?
Refers to programs involving more than one academic department, e.g. political science and law. Although there are no formal joint degree programs in the physics graduate program, many students receive interdisciplinary training as a part of their PhD studies.
What is a 3/2 program?
The 3/2 program refers to a 5-year program in which a student obtains a bachelor's and master's degree as part of one package. Prospective physics graduate students who already have a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) do not qualify for this program. If you do qualify for this program and are interested in this degree path, you must contact the Undergraduate Coordinator in the Department of Physics for advice about your possible plans.
Should I check "fellowship", "scholarship", and/or "assistantship" on the form?
You may check any combination, but regardless of what you check, the physics department will automatically consider you for both fellowships and assistantships.
I have plenty of other questions about the PhD program. Where can I go for quick answers?
In many instances, specific questions about our PhD program are answered on the FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) webpage written for students who have joined our Department. This webpage, called FAQs for the Current Student, is where you might find your answers. If you have additional questions, the Chair of the Graduate Recruiting and Admissions Committee or the Graduate Coordinator will be happy to address them.