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Admissions Information, Applications & Instructions

What we look for in applicants

• interest in our areas of specialization
• a strong background in chemistry, including at least one course in analytical chemistry and one in physical chemistry
• ability to succeed in research as indicated by:
  • academic ability
  • energy and intellectual independence
  • previous research experience, including presentations and/or publications

Application Requirements (also see FAQ page)

All applications are processed by the Graduate School, not the Chemistry Department. Electronic applications are preferred, and enable you to determine which pieces of your application have been received.

1. The graduate application (electronic or paper)
2. A resume
3. A statement of educational and professional goals
4. Transcripts of an earned bachelor's degree and any graduate work
5. A nonrefundable $60(US) application fee
6. Scores from the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores; GRE Chemistry exam scores are preferred but not required
7. Three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to your academic or professional skills. This should NOT include personal friends and family.  Letters of recommendation can be e-mailed by the writer to esfgrad@esf.edu

INSTITUTION CODE FOR OFFICIAL SCORE REPORTS: 2530

Applicants can submit their resumes and statements of educational goals as Word or pdf files along with their electronic applications.

Students whose primary language is not English are also required to provide evidence of English language proficiency.  See Admissions Information for International Students.

Application Target Dates

*We will continue to accept and fully consider graduate applications beyond each of the noted target dates, but completing your application by the target date increases your chances of being accepted and offered funding. You will automatically be considered for funding.

For International Students

Applicants from countries outside of the U.S. are required to submit additional forms to verify English proficiency skills and provide evidence of financial support for the duration of their studies. See Admissions Information for International Students. To download supplemental forms, go to the SUNY website.

After an applicant has been officially admitted to the college and indicates that s/he will attend ESF in the upcoming semester, an I-20 (required for the F-1 student visa application process) will be issued. The tuition waiver and stipend usually exceed the level of financial support required for issuing an I-20.