Admission Requirements

1. Applicants are required to present evidence of a baccalaureate or graduate degree in physics or an allied science with a minor in physics from a fully, regionally accredited institution. Applicants should demonstrate a minimum grade point average of 3.0. Particular emphasis is made on physics and mathematics course performance.
2. Applicants must submit official transcripts of degrees. These must show evidence of satisfactory course work (Grades of B or higher) in calculus (equivalent to Hofstra University’s MATH 071-073), differential equations (equivalent to Hofstra University’s MATH 131), introductory general physics (equivalent to Hofstra University’s PHYS 011A, 011B, 012A, 012B), modern physics (equivalent to Hofstra University’s PHYS 118A), electricity and magnetism (equivalent to Hofstra University’s PHYS 104), and six semester hours of additional advanced mathematics or physics courses. International applicants are encouraged to use a transcript conversion service to facilitate a fair application evaluation.
3. Two letters of recommendation.
4. Standardized test scores. The GRE is not required; however, students may submit GRE scores in support of their applications, including the physics subject test if available. For non-native speakers of English, a TOEFL test may be required unless waived by the program directors, after having received evidence of English-language proficiency. The cut-off score is 80 (Internet-based), 550 (paper-based). Alternatively, students may submit IELTS scores (cut-off 6.5).
5. A statement of purpose that summarizes the candidate’s background and rationale for applying to the program.
6. A recent curriculum vitae. The following qualifications strongly support a student’s candidacy for admission and will be taken into account: a) potential for analytical and critical thinking, laboratory and clinical work, and personal growth; b) prior exposure to clinical medical physics or clinical medicine—for example as a volunteer; c) prior research experience; and d) skill in a major second language in the United States, such as Spanish.

7. Standardized test scores: Students may submit GRE scores to support their applications, including the Physics subject test if available. GRE scores are not required.

8. A phone interview and an optional onsite interview are scheduled at the request of the student or the program director.

9. English Proficiency Requirement: 

• For non-native speakers of English, a TOEFL test may be required unless waived by the program directors after having received evidence of English-language proficiency. The cut-off score is 80 (internet-based), and 550 (paper-based). Alternatively, students may submit IELTS scores (cut-off 6.5).
• Newly admitted international students are required to take an English placement exam during orientation. The English Language Placement (ELP) includes the writing exam (one-hour), which involves writing answers to 4 questions, and an oral proficiency exam which is a short (15-minute) professional conversation. Results are reviewed by the Hofstra English Language Program (ELP) faculty, who make the decision if students must take ESL 234 (2.0 s.h.). All international students who are placed in ESL 234 (2.0 s.h.) must complete the course during the first semester in which they begin their program and must receive a grade of P (Pass). ELP 234 (2.0 s.h.) will carry no degree credit. A fee equivalent to 2.0 s.h. is charged for this course. A grade of P (pass) is required, or the course has to be repeated the following semester. The same fee equivalent will be charged for the repeated course.

Program Requirements