Skip to main content
Frequently Asked Questions – M.S. Program in Psychological Sciences
Do you accept application fee waivers?Yes, several types of application fee waivers are available. Please review the options provided by the Office of Graduate Studies to determine if you qualify. If you do not meet the listed criteria, our department has a limited number of departmental waivers available. To be considered, you must:
All departmental fee waiver requests will be reviewed at the end of January, and applicants will be notified of the outcome shortly thereafter. |
What do you look for in an applicant?We value applicants with strong research experience, well-written research statements, compelling recommendation letters, a clear fit with potential advisors, and a strong academic record. Please see our Admissions Page for more details. |
What are the requirements for international applicants?Please visit our International Applicants page for detailed requirements. |
Do students from international institutions need to submit transcripts through WES?Yes, please refer to the Additional Requirements for International Applicants for submission guidelines. |
Is the M.S. program fully funded?Yes, all students admitted to the Psychological Sciences M.S. program receive a teaching or research assistantship, which includes:
|
What would make my application stand out?Strong research experience, a clear and focused research statement, excellent letters of recommendation, alignment with faculty research interests, and solid academic preparation will distinguish your application. |
Do I need to select an advisor before applying?Yes, applicants must identify one or more faculty members they wish to work with and explain their fit with the advisor(s) in the research statement. We strongly encourage you to contact potential advisors prior to submitting your application to confirm availability. |
May I visit the campus?Yes, visits can be arranged. To schedule a meeting with the Graduate Program Director, faculty, or current graduate students, please contact the program at psychology@wm.edu. |
Are interviews required?Yes, selected applicants will be invited for interviews via Zoom or phone after the initial review of applications. |
How many credits can I transfer into the program?The Psychological Sciences program does not accept transfer credits. |
Will you accept more than three letters of recommendation?Three letters are required, but additional letters may be submitted if you believe they will strengthen your application. |
When should I take the TOEFL?International applicants should take the TOEFL at least 8–12 weeks before February 1 to ensure timely receipt of scores. |
What is the TOEFL code for William & Mary?The institutional TOEFL code is 5115. |
Do you accept other English proficiency tests besides TOEFL/IELTS?No. At this time, we only accept TOEFL or IELTS scores. |
Who should write my letters of recommendation?Ask individuals who can speak to your abilities in psychology, especially in research, critical thinking, writing, and overall potential for success in graduate study. Preferably, this includes faculty members or research mentors. |
Can I apply if my degree is not in Psychology?Yes. Applicants without a psychology degree may still apply. However, all applicants must have completed coursework in experimental/research methods and psychological statistics. In some cases, substantial quantitative research experience may substitute for formal coursework. |
Is the program offered online?No, this is a full-time, in-person program. |
Do you admit students in the spring?No, we only offer fall admission. |
Can I attend the program part-time?No, M.S. students must be enrolled full-time. |
Where can I find more information?Visit our Graduate Program Homepage for more details. |