Applicants must hold a baccalaureate degree, preferably with a major in physics. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE), including the advanced test in physics, is recommended but not required. To be accepted as a graduate degree candidate, applicants should have maintained an average of approximately B (3.0/4.0 scale) in their undergraduate work. Applicants with undergraduate averages below this level, but not less than 2.0, may be admitted by submitting other evidence of academic potential; i.e., satisfactory performance in post-baccalaureate work, professional experience as evidenced by publications or letters of recommendation, and/or high test scores.
Language Proficiency
Required scores on the Internet-based (iBT) and Computer-based TOEFL:
An overall score of 80 or above (82 for teaching assistantship consideration), AND Minimum scores in the following areas: Reading: 19; Writing: 18; Listening: 17; Speaking: 18 (the suggested minimum speaking score for a teaching assistantship is 20).
Other scores that may be accepted in place of TOEFL scores (please check with your department):
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): All scores must be sent directly to URI. Required minimum score of 6.5, AND minimum scores in the following areas: Reading: 6.5; Writing: 6.5; Listening: 6.5; Speaking: 6.5 (The suggested minimum speaking score for a teaching assistantship is 7).
Duolingo English Test: Required minimum score of 105 (Score of 110 for a teaching assistantship)
Pearson Test of English: Required minimum scores are Reading 53, Writing 59, Listening 47, and Speaking 47 (62 for international teaching assistants)
Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR): Required minimum score of B2
Application deadline is February 15 for fall start.
