The Application Process to the Clinical Psychology PhD Program
Applicants are encouraged to begin the process as soon as possible during the fall semester in order to insure that the application file will be complete by the time the final review is made of all applicants. The entire package of application materials must be received by December 1 to be considered.
Application Process:
We strongly encourage you to apply online. However, materials can be submitted by mail.
Online Application for Graduate Admission Download an Application Packet
Mail: Office of Graduate Admissions
013 McMahon Hall
The Catholic University of America
Washington, DC 20064
Your application to the Clinical Psychology PhD program should include the following:
1. Transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work.
Note: Unofficial transcripts are required for application review. A pdf scan of an official transcript is preferred. Official transcripts will be required prior to enrollment if accepted.
2. Report of GRE General Test scores is required. Subject Test in Psychology is strongly recommended. GRE scores must be sent directly to the CUA Office of Graduate Admissions from the testing service and cannot be attached to the online application. CUA's test code is 5104.
3. Personal statement: a two- to three-page statement about why you are qualified for the program, including information on your research and clinical experience, areas you would like to do research on in graduate school, goals after obtaining your doctorate, and other important information you want us to know about you.
Note: If submitted online, use the "Statement of Purpose" link in the Arts and Sciences Documents section to upload.
4. Clinical Psychology Interest Form
Note: If submitted online, download this document from the “Downloadable Forms” link in the lower left-hand of the application, complete and save this form on your computer, then upload/attach it under “Clinical Psychology Interest Form” in the Arts and Sciences Documents section. It’s fine for you to type your name at the bottom when it asks for your signature.
5. Curriculum Vitae
Note: If submitted online, upload in the Employment Information section.
6. Three letters of recommendation, along with the
Recommendation Rating Form, from individuals who know you well and are able to describe with specificity your academic, research, training, and/or work performance, as well as your potential in the field of clinical psychology.
Note: If you submit your application online, online completion of the recommendation forms and uploaded letters are required. If submitted via mail, give a copy of the
Recommendation Rating Form to the letter writer.
Although the online application has a link for a Writing Sample (in the Arts and Sciences Documents section), this is not required. You may submit a writing sample if you wish.
Application fee. We waive the application fee for those with serious financial difficulties that make it a hardship to pay the fee, and for others who would increase diversity in the student body, such as veterans and ethnic minorities. To request an application fee waiver, applicants must write a letter explaining the basis for their request and send it by U.S. post to the Office of Graduate Admissions, 013 McMahon Hall, The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC 20064.
