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Common Questions

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Do I need a Master’s degree to apply to the Geophysics doctoral program?

No. Applicants who have a bachelor’s degree may apply directly to our doctoral program.

If I do not have a Geophysics academic background, am I still eligible to apply?

We have a wide variety of students from various academic backgrounds. Please refer to our academic section to review course requirements to the degree.

Do I need to submit a GRE score with my application?

The Geophysics department does not require applicants to submit a GRE score.

What is the minimum GPA score required in order to be considered for admission?

We do not have a minimum GPA requirement. The evaluation of each applicant is based on all the materials in the file and is not exclusively based on the GPA.

Do I need to mail official transcripts when applying ?

If you are unable to upload an official transcript in the online application, it is preferred the send the official transcripts using a credited e-transcript service. If you are unable to upload the official transcript to the online application and not able to send the official transcript using a credited e-transcript service, official transcripts will be accepted by mail. Mailed copies of transcripts are not required to apply to the program if the application includes the official transcripts. Please review the Application Details section of the website for more information about transcripts.

I am an international or DACA/undocumented student, can I apply and qualify for funding? 

The Geophysics department welcomes all students regardless of their nationality or migratory status to apply and be considered for funding (See more resources). 

What if my official transcripts or my letters of recommendation are not received by the deadline?

Your file will not be considered complete until all required application materials are received. We may do a preliminary review of applications marked incomplete and it is best to have all documents submitted by the application deadline.

I'm having technical issues with the application. Who do I contact for help?

Technical support is available thru the "request application support" form on the graduate application.

Please also visit the Stanford University Graduate Admissions website for additional information about eligibility, required exams, submitting the application, file upload requirements, and more.

Where can I find more common questions?

More common questions about TOEFL, Transcripts, Letters of Recommendation and Statement of Purpose, and Common questions for International Students can be found on the Graduate Admissions website.

For more information about Geophysics Admissions

If you have questions, please contact Geophysics Admissions at gp-admissions@stanford.edu