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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. My GRE score is below the score mentioned on the Ph.D. Website. Could I still be accepted into the Ph.D. program?

A: Admission decisions are based on the suitability of the applicant along different criteria including GPA in previous degrees, standardized test scores, scholarly publications and their quality, alignment of research interests with ongoing faculty research, etc. Deficiency on any one of these criteria, e.g., the GRE score might be compensated by a demonstration of outstanding achievements in one or more of the remaining criteria. 

All applicants to the Ph.D. program are required to have a valid GRE score to be considered for admission.

Q2. I am an international student but my TOEFL score has expired or I never wrote TOEFL. Could I still apply?

A: Email UNO office of international studies to discuss your case. 

Q3. I have just completed my undergraduate degree but do not have any academic publications. Could I still be accepted into the Ph.D. program?

A: Applicants should have high-quality scholarly publications because they are an appropriate demonstration of research potential. Admissions to the Ph.D. program are very competitive and almost every student admitted into the program has one or more academic publications.

Q4. What is the size of the Ph.D. program? How many students are there? How many faculty? How many courses do I have to take if I get admitted into the Ph.D. program?

A: This information is given under the "Directory: Current Student List" and "Home: Faculty Research Areas" sections of this Website respectively. Refer to the "Home: Program Description" section of this Website for coursework related information.

Q5. Are part-time students admitted into the Ph.D. program? Can I get my Ph.D. degree online? Can I take all my courses online?

A: A limited number of part-time students with demonstrated research potential and excellent academic background may be admitted into the program. All Ph.D. students, full-time or part-time, have to be resident students and take courses by attending class lectures and do research under their supervisor/advisor.