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Applications are submitted through the Graduate Admissions web site.  Additional information is available about the admissions process as well as answers to frequently asked questions about the application process. Your application must be submitted by December 15. All materials should be in by December 15, but it is possible to submit transcripts and English proficiency test scores (if applicable) as late as December 25.  For priority consideration, letters of recommendation must be in by December 25, but we will continue to collect letters until January 5, with applications only being reviewed when all letters are in.  You should start your application early and submit your reference letter information well before the deadline.

Application Requirements

In addition to general information, you will be asked for the following during the application process:

  • Personal statement (should include information about past research, current research interests, etc.)
  • Curriculum Vitae or Resume
  • Unofficial transcript (scanned or other electronic version in PDF format)
  • Contact information for references (must submit at least 3 and no more than 4)
  • Application fee of $60 for domestic students and $80 for international students

General GRE and Physics Subject GRE exams

Submission of GRE test scores is optional. However, it is recommended to submit General and Physics Subject GRE scores for applicants interested in the specific research sub-fields of AMO Theory, Elementary Particle Theory, Plasma Theory, Quantum Condensed Matter and Materials Theory, and Quantum Information Theory. All applications are evaluated holistically to assess the applicant’s preparation and potential for graduate coursework and independent research, which can be demonstrated in multiple ways. If you choose to submit GRE scores, have them sent to the University of Colorado Boulder (institution code 4841) by December 25, 2024.

English Proficiency Tests

For admission to the University of Colorado at Boulder, proficiency test results are generally required of non-native English speakers who did not attend university in an English speaking country. See the graduate school page for more information.  Generally this means submitting verifiable score reports from TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo and does not require the testing agency to send in official scores.

    Application Deadlines

    • The application deadline is December 15, which is the nominal deadline for all materials.  However, transcripts and test scores can be submitted as late as December 25, and recommendation letters as late as January 5.

    More information can be found on the admissions process page, the frequently asked questions page, and the Graduate School application page.