Can the application fee be waived?

All applicants must pay the fee in order to be admitted. In cases of extreme hardship, the applicant should contact the department for options.

Must all international students take the TOEFL exam?

The TOEFL exam is required of all international students except those who have earned a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in the United States or an equivalent degree from a country where English is the official language.

Is a separate application required for financial support?

No. All applicants are considered for financial support in the form of Teaching or Research Assistants.

Are assistantships available to students pursuing a terminal Master’s Degree?

In general, assistantships are awarded to those students seeking a Ph.D. In the unusual situation in which resources remain available, terminal Master’s Degree candidates may receive aid on a semester-by-semester basis.

What is the housing situation for graduate students?

Many students find housing in Graduate Village, which is a University owned apartment complex less than a mile from the Physics building. Others prefer to rent rooms or live in rental housing in the surrounding area. There is a strong network of graduate students that assists incoming students find accommodations. Visit the URI Housing and Residential Life website for more information about campus and off-campus housing.

Is Health insurance offered to graduate students?

Health insurance is a no cost benefit for single graduate students; a charge is made for family coverage.

Will my graduate credits transfer?

In some cases, when it is clear that the course to be transferred bears a close correspondence to the URI course transfer credit will be granted. However, since the qualifying exam is based on our courses, it is highly recommended that students take those courses at URI.

Is the GRE required?

No. Neither the General Exam nor the Physics exam is required; however, good scores on the exams will add to your credentials.

What is the deadline for applications?

We review applications as they are received, but do not make decisions until March 1. Those applications received after that date may not receive full consideration for financial aid.
Our main admissions are for the Fall semesters; however, occasionally resources become available so that we can offer assistantships beginning in the Spring semester.