Clark University Graduate Admissions Requirements
Clark University offers comprehensive graduate programs for students seeking master's degrees, PhDs, and certificates. The university's Admissions Review Committee conducts a holistic evaluation of all applications, considering test scores, undergraduate academic performance, professional experience, personal statements, and recommendation letters.
Once you begin your application, you'll receive access to an applicant portal where you can track your application status and submitted materials. Let's explore the standard requirements for all graduate programs at Clark University.
Standard Application Requirements
Application Fee: A non-refundable $75 fee is required. However, you can earn a fee waiver by attending one of their webinar series, which also provides an opportunity to meet with the admissions team and learn more about the application process.
Resume: Include all colleges attended, degree types, GPAs, and graduation dates. Also detail your work experience, internships, and volunteer activities with dates of employment and job responsibilities (3-4 sentences per experience).
Personal Statement: Discuss your professional goals, academic/research interests, and plans for achieving these goals. Outline specific experiences that will contribute to your success in the program and career. Maximum length is 800 words.
Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required (three for the M.A. in Teaching program). These should come from employers, supervisors, professors, or instructors who can comment on your potential for success in graduate studies. Letters should address your intellectual abilities, communication skills, independence, initiative, and drive.
Academic Transcripts: Submit transcripts from all institutions attended, including individual mark sheets, consolidated transcripts, and degree confirmations.
Program-Specific Requirements
Some programs have additional requirements:
Master of Fine Arts in Interactive Media: Applicants must submit a portfolio showcasing traditional and/or digital works of visual art or interactive media. Portfolio pieces should demonstrate originality, visual literacy, and proficiency with industry-standard software.
On-campus MBA Program: GRE/GMAT scores are required, though this requirement is waived for students with a 3.2 GPA or higher. Students with lower GPAs are reviewed case by case. Test codes: GRE: 3279, GMAT: Q4X-6X-30.
International Student Requirements
International applicants have additional requirements to fulfill:
English Language Proficiency
International students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of these options:
TOEFL (ETS code 5969): 85 overall, with sub-score minimum of 20
TOEFL ITP Plus Scores
IELTS: 6.5 overall, with sub-score minimum of 6
PTE: 61 overall with no band below 55
Duolingo: 120, with sub-score minimum of 100
Completion of ELS 112
Completion of EC English B2+ Pre-Advanced Level
Citizens from certain countries are exempt from English language requirements, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and several other English-speaking nations. Students who have earned a degree from an accredited university in these countries are also exempt.
If you don't meet the minimum English requirements, you may be offered admission to the English for Academic Success Program or the Graduate Pathway Program before starting your degree program.
Foreign Credential Evaluation
While not required, Clark University partners with International Education Evaluations (MyIEE) to support transcript evaluation and translation needs. You can learn more about this service at https://myiee.org/university/clark-university.
Clark University Graduate Scholarships
Clark University offers merit-based tuition scholarships for full-time master's students who demonstrate academic potential, professional focus, and commitment to Clark community values. These scholarships are awarded at the time of admission, with decisions considered final.
Scholarship Application Requirements
To apply for a Clark Graduate Scholarship, you must submit:
Written Essay (500-1,000 words): Respond to the prompt: "Clark University's mission is 'Challenge Convention, Change the World.' How would you use a master's degree from Clark to uphold our mission? How would you contribute to our community?"
Video Essay (1-3 minutes): Respond in person to the prompt: "Master's programs at Clark range from 10 to 16 classes in length. What class in your future master's program are you most excited to take, and why?"
What Makes a Strong Scholarship Application?
The strongest scholarship applications demonstrate:
Authentic and Original Voice: Provide unique perspectives and avoid generic responses. Don't use AI.
Personal Background Reflection: Highlight experiences that have shaped your academic and career aspirations.
Clear Career Goals and Program Fit: Explain your career goals and how Clark's program will help you achieve them.
Connection to Personal Values and Clark's Mission: Show how your values align with Clark's mission to "Challenge Convention, Change the World."
Professionalism and Attention to Detail: Present a well-structured, polished application that reflects professionalism and careful proofreading.
Types of Graduate Scholarships
Clark University offers four levels of merit-based scholarships:
Merit Scholarship (15% of tuition): Recognizes strong academic performance and potential for graduate success.
School-Awarded Scholarship (30% of tuition): Awarded to candidates who bring exceptional academic, professional, or community contributions aligned with their field of study.
Dean's Scholarship (50% of tuition): Honors bold thinkers and emerging leaders whose vision, initiative, and drive set them apart.
Fiat Lux Scholarship (75% of tuition): Clark's highest graduate scholarship, reserved for the most outstanding applicants who demonstrate extraordinary academic achievement, leadership, and potential to make transformative contributions to their field.
How to Apply
Scholarship candidates are encouraged to apply early during priority application periods. Deans and faculty members individually select recipients based on scholarship criteria and application strength. Access application deadlines here.
Ready to apply? Visit the official Clark University graduate admissions page to begin your application:
Apply to Clark University Graduate Programs
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