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Application for Graduate Studies

Directions for Applying for a Graduate Certificate

Back to Applying for Graduate School>

We are looking forward to learning more about you through the on-line application process. Please read through the FAQs below to prepare. Don't hesitate to contact us with questions at any point (gradadmissions@appstate.edu, 828-262-2130).

• What information should be gathered before starting the process?
• What constitutes a complete application?
• How is my information used, and who can see it?
• If I decide not to complete my application, can I be deleted from the system?
• Can I get detailed instructions to follow?
• Who can help with questions?

What information should be gathered before starting the process?

The on-line application form is self-explanatory; please read each screen carefully. You will be prompted to enter information about yourself, the program you wish to enter, and your credentials. You can save information on each webpage, and then log out to return later to continue entering information.

You will need the following information to complete your application. It is helpful to gather some of this documentation in advance. Be sure to check the Supplemental Information Webpage to read about any additional documents needed by the program of your choice and to verify the deadline set by the program.

• The specific program by name, the location of the program (on or off campus), and for on-campus students an indication of whether you intend to enroll full or part time. Please note that all off-campus programs are part-time programs. Also note that some on-campus programs do not permit part-time enrollment. If you select a level of enrollment that is not possible, we will contact you.

• An email account that you can be sure you have access to during the application review process. Questions about your application will be sent to the email address that you provide.

• A mailing address (which can be different from your permanent address if needed). Official notification of acceptance will be sent to your mailing address.

• The names and dates of attendance for all colleges and universities you have ever attended (even if the credit transfered to another institution, including Appalachian if you attended here!), and the date(s) on which you were awarded any degrees. These dates are on your transcripts if you are not sure about them.

• You will be required to answer questions about any misconduct from the past or currently under review, including criminal offenses or academic disciplinary actions. You will be prompted to give short explanations. Please note that failure to disclose this information or to provide an adequate explanation can delay, or even cause rejection of, your application.

What constitutes a complete application?

The following items are required for all certificate programs.

1. The on-line application form, with all required information filled in and submitted.

2. The application processing fee (which supports the technology and manpower needed for data entry). For 2008, this fee is $50. When you submit your application (by pressing the submit button on the last page), you will be given an application identifier. Please include this identifier on your check so we can be sure that your payment is properly recorded.

3. Official transcripts mailed directly to the Graduate School showing proof of bachelor's degree (and master's degree if you are applying for Expressive Arts Therapy, Reading Education or Rhetoric & Composition). If you earned your degree from Appalachian, you do not need to supply the Appalachian transcripts.

4. Official test score reports sent directly to the Graduate School (CODE 5010 for GRE, TOEFL; 1350 for MAT) for the general examination, if required by the certificate program of interest. International students will need to supply TOEFL or IELTS scores for all programs. (List of test scores required for each program)

5. A resume, which should be prepared as or scanned into a .doc or .pdf file (.pdf preferred) and uploaded during the on-line process.

6. Any supplemental information required by the specific certificate program, such writing samples, letters of intent, essays, etc. (List of supplemental information required by each program)

Can I get detailed instructions to follow?

You can download a pdf to assist you in the application process, including screenshots. (Directions for the Certificate Application)

How is my information used, and who can see it?

Your information can only be used for determining admission. The only people who have access to your information are the admissions specialists in the graduate school, the admissions committee in the program you select, and the University Registrar (for transcript and residency purposes).

If I decide not to complete my application, can I be deleted from the system?

Persons who do not submit their applications by pressing submit at the end of the form may request that their profile be deleted by contacting the Graduate School in writing. Please include your full name, and the username you established. Submitted applications become part of the permanent record of applicants.

Who can help with questions?

Please do not hesitate to contact the Graduate School if you need help! Ms. Brenda Chambers (gradadmissions@appstate.edu) is the graduate admissions specialist and can be contacted during regular business hours (8 to 5 Eastern Time Zone USA) on the phone as well: 828.262.2130. If she is unavailable, the receptionist can direct your call to another staff member.