EXPLORING

1. Where is Saint Joseph's University located?
Saint Joseph’s is located approximately 20 minutes from downtown Philadelphia. The unique campus location on City Avenue creates a campus shared by Philadelphia and Lower Merion township. In addition to our main campus, the University also offers graduate courses at Ursinus (Collegeville) and other area locations. 

2. Who do I contact to schedule a campus tour?
Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions via e-mail at graduate@sju.edu or by calling 1-888-SJU-GRAD (758-4723) to schedule a personal visit and tour of campus. Requests to speak with a representative from your academic program will be coordinated with the appropriate offices.

3. What do I do if I can not decide on a program?
Deciding on a graduate program can sometimes be a daunting task. We strongly encourage you to learn as much as possible about potential programs. Saint Joseph’s offers general recommendations, including attending one of six graduate information sessions held throughout the year.

4. When can I speak with an advisor?
Students can contact their academic department directly to schedule an appointment with an advisor. Typically students meet with an advisor after submitting an application or once they have received notice of an admissions decision. Students are also encouraged to contact the graduate admissions office for general questions regarding the admissions process.

5. What doctoral programs do you offer?
Saint Joseph’s University currently offers one doctoral program, the Interdisciplinary Doctor of Education Program for Educational Leaders (IDEPEL). The specific aim of this Ed.D. Program is to prepare future leaders in education, both theoretically and practically, for educational reform, social change, and social justice. For more information, visit http://www.sju.edu/academics/cas/grad/education/

ADMISSIONS PROCESS

1. Do I have to apply before I take classes?
Anyone interested in taking graduate courses at Saint Joseph’s University must complete the appropriate application process. Once an application has been completed and submitted, it is processed and reviewed prior to course registration.

2. What do I need to do to apply?
Student applications consist of the graduate application form available at http://www.sju.edu/graduateapp and the appropriate supporting documents for your program of interest. Refer to the program page or the student application packet for specific information on the application requirements for your program of interest.

3. Are test scores from the GRE/GMAT/MAT required for admission?
Certain programs, such as the Ed.D. Program, MS Psychology, and the professional business programs require official test scores for admission. Students are encouraged to review the admissions requirements for their particular program of interest for confirmation of current application requirements.

4. What is the difference between matriculated and nonmatriculated?
The matriculated status refers to a student who is pursuing a graduate degree. Nonmatriculated students are students who are typically pursuing isolated credit for a variety of reasons.

5. What is the application fee?
The standard application fee is $35 for the professional programs. The application fee for the Ed.D. Program is $100. All fees can be paid by check or money order payable to “Saint Joseph’s University.” Students applying to any of the executive business programs should contact the department directly for instructions.

6. When is the application deadline?
This information is listed on our Apply page.

7. When do I find out if I have been accepted into the program?
Student information is typically reviewed for an admissions decision based on a complete application file. Based on the program, the review process can take a few weeks. Students are invited to contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 1-888-SJU-GRAD for an application status check if they do not receive notification from their academic department after 15 business days of submitting a complete application. Students applying to either the Ed.D. program or the MS Psychology program will be notified of a decision after the February 1/March 1 application deadline.

8. Who receives my application?
Your application is processed by the Office of Graduate Admissions. This means that this office will create an applicant record for you, which, in turn, generates an Saint Joseph's University student identification number. Application materials must be sent to the following location:

Office of Graduate Admissions
St. Joseph's University
5600 City Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19131

9. Who reviews my application?
Applications are reviewed for admissions decisions by the specific academic departments to which the applicant is seeking admission. Final admissions decisions are based on a complete student application.

ACADEMICS

1. Who is my advisor?
Advising assignments are confirmed via specific academic departments. As an applicant, you may not have an assigned advisor until you begin the program. Representatives from the Office of Graduate Admissions are available to assist you in determining an appropriate person to speak to based on your questions. The director of your program is also a resource as you go through the admissions process. We recommend contacting your academic department directly if you would like to schedule an appointment with an advisor. For department-specific contact information, visit the College of Arts & Sciences and Haub School of Business pages.

2. How do I select appropriate courses?
Students are encouraged to review the program requirements in the current issue of the Graduate Course Catalog. The catalog outlines the course requirements for the program and includes information about pre-requisite course requirements. Students should also speak with an academic advisor or department representative if they are unsure about any particular courses.

3. What courses are offered at the Ursinus (Collegeville) campus?
The following graduate programs are currently offered at the Ursinus campus:

• Professional MBA
• M.S. in Financial Services
• M.S. in Criminal Justice
• M.S. in Health Administration
  

4. Does Saint Joseph's University offer any graduate theology programs?
Saint Joseph’s does not currently offer graduate theology courses.

5. Is the graduate business school accredited?
The Erivan K. Haub School of Business is accredited by AACSB International (the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). An AACSB International accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. Institutions, such as Saint Joseph's University, that earn accreditation confirm their commitment to quality and continuous improvement through a rigorous and comprehensive peer review. AACSB International accreditation is the hallmark of excellence in management education.

FINANCIAL

1. What is the process for financial aid?
Students are encouraged to visit the Office of Financial Assistance Web site at http://www.sju.edu/finaid for current information pertaining to applying for aid.

2. Are there other forms of financial assistance?
Graduate scholarships and discounts are program- and student category-specific. It is best to contact your academic department to inquire about program-specific options. This includes inquiries about competitive graduate assistantships and their application process.

3. What is the process if my employer is paying for my courses?
Students with inquiries about tuition remission and installment payment plans should visit the Student Services Center Web site at http://www.sju.edu/student_services for additional instructions. The Student Services Center coordinates student registration and payment.

4. How much is tuition?
Current tuition costs are listed on our Tuition & Fees page.

IT

1. When do I get my username and password?
Student IT information is generated and mailed out by the Office of Information Technology. Please visit http://it.sju.edu/ for information on technology services at the University.

2. What is the number for the IT student help desk?
Students requiring assistance with technology issues are invited to contact the student helpdesk at 610-660-3070.

GENERAL

1. Is there housing for graduate students on campus?
The University does not offer on-campus housing for graduate students. Students who require assistance in locating housing options in close proximity to campus are invited to contact the off-campus housing coordinator in the Office of Residence Life at 610-660-1003 for a list of apartments in the area.

2. Are there any graduate student clubs or associations?
There are a few graduate student clubs and associations available on campus. Students are invited to ask their program representatives about organizations related to their department or field of study. A sampling of current clubs and associations includes the Graduate Business Student Association (GBSA) and The Hawks of India. Students are also welcome to participate in a host of campus activities and events through the year.

3. Is there assistance with job placement?
The Career Development Center, located in Overbrook Hall, provides assistance to students through the year. Students are invited to visit online at http://www.sju.edu/careers/ for a calendar of events and a list of services.

4. What about parking on campus?
University parking is available to all employees, students, visitors, and to those persons who conduct business with the University. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, if you are eligible. To be eligible to park on campus you must obtain a full-time, part-time, or visitors parking permit.

Handicapped persons who have been issued appropriate state identification for their vehicles must obtain a University parking permit to park their vehicles on University property in the spaces reserved for handicapped parking. State issued handicapped identification alone does not permit parking on University property. Students and employees who are temporarily handicapped due to accidents, etc., must contact the Department of Academic Development, Coordinator for Persons with Disabilities at ext. 1774 and obtain certification before applying for a temporary permit.

Parking permits can be purchased online. Eligible students and employees should go to www.sju.edu and sign onto MySJU. There is a link on the front page that says Purchase Parking Decal. You will be required to complete a vehicle information form and submit a credit card number for purchase. Permits can then be picked up at the Security office at any time. Permits will still be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. Where can I obtain my student I.D.?
Students can request a picture I.D. from the Office of Public Safety located in Barbelin Hall once they have received formal acceptance into their academic program. The initial I.D. card is offered at no cost with a minimal replacement fee charged for lost cards.

6. Where do I purchase my books?
Books for your courses can be purchased at the Saint Joseph's University Bookstore located on 54th Street. Students are advised to take information regarding their courses such as the CRN number and course title for general assistance.

GRADUATE BUSINESS FAQ

1. What is your average GMAT?
580

2. What is your average cumulative undergraduate GPA?
3.32

3. What is the cost of a course?
Tuition varies per program. Students are invited to review the information listed in the Tuition & Fees section for a listing of programs and fees.

4. How many years of work experience are required for admission?
Saint Joseph's MBA Admissions Committee does not require that students have a minimum amount of work experience; however, a business résumé is required to complete the MBA application.

5. Can I take a course without applying?
No, all students must apply to the program and submit transcripts from their undergraduate institution.

6. If I took the GMAT seven years ago will it still be accepted?
Yes, but individuals who took the GMAT more than seven years ago must retake the exam.

7. Can I take courses on a part-time basis?
Saint Joseph's University offers a part-time MBA program for working professionals. Courses are offered in the evenings or on Saturdays.

8. Do I have to go to another school to take my prerequisite courses?
No, students can take their prerequisite courses or Foundation Core courses at Saint Joseph's University.

9. What is the minimum TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score required for admission?
550 for the written test, 213 for the computerized test, and 79 for the internet test.

10. Can I take courses at either the Philadelphia campus or the Ursinus College campus?
Yes, Saint Joseph's University MBA program allows students the convenience of taking courses at both area locations. Courses at both locations are administered and staffed by Saint Joseph's University. Degrees earned are awarded by Saint Joseph's University.

GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL FAQ

1. What are the application deadlines for international students?
The Graduate Admissions Office recommends that all international applicants complete their applications, including receipt of official test scores, by the following dates:

Spring (January) Admission – October 15
Summer (May) Admission – February 15
Fall (August) Admission – April 15

*Note: The Ed.D. and Graduate Psychology programs have strict application deadlines of February 1 and March 1, respectively. In addition, applicants to the Graduate Biology program wishing to enroll in the Fall semester are strongly encouraged to complete their applications by March 15.

2. What is the cost of study?
Current tuition information is available on our Tuition & Fees page. Living and miscellaneous expenses are estimated at $10,500 per year.

3. Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. Scholarships are available for students who will be studying on an F-1 visa. These scholarships are merit-based and are determined at the time of acceptance. Current awards range from $2,000-9,000 total dispersed over the entire time of study. Students who wish to be considered for the maximum award must submit an official GRE or GMAT score report.

4. What other financial assistance is available to international students?
Scholarships at Saint Joseph's are awarded on academic merit based on the information you submit with your application. There are no scholarships reserved for students with financial need. Unfortunately, there is no “financial aid“ available to non-U.S. citizens. Financial aid awards come from the U.S. government and as such are given only to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Loans in the United States are not normally available to international students unless a U.S. citizen or permanent resident will co-sign for the loan.

Some students apply for loans from their home country to help pay for school expenses. For additional financing information and helpful links, visit the NAFSA: Association of International Educators Web site “For Students“ section at http://www.nafsa.org/students.sec. We also suggest that students research to see if any groups in their home country offer scholarships or grants for international study, or to see if organizations related to their planned major (at home or abroad) offer money for studies in their field.

5. Are international students permitted to work on campus? If so, what types of jobs are available?
Yes, international students are permitted to work on campus and many do so while they are studying here; however, on-campus and off-campus work must be in accordance with U.S. immigration regulations. There are a few departments that hire many students, and then there are students who find jobs at smaller offices around campus. These jobs typically pay U.S. minimum wage. To hear from some current students, contact the Global Hawks student group at globalhawks@sju.edu.

In addition to regular on-campus positions, some academic departments hire graduate assistants each semester. These positions pay a partial-tuition award and stipend. GAs work in an office on campus assisting the staff in many types of projects, including office tasks and academic research. Interested students must apply directly with the department in which they would like to be an assistant. Positions are competitive and are typically filled prior to the start of each semester.

6. If I am accepted, how long will it take for my I-20 to reach me?
Once a student’s application is complete, including all application requirements, financial documents, official test scores, and official WES evaluation, the student’s file will be reviewed by the academic program. Decisions are typically made within two weeks, and I-20s are typically shipped via express mail within one week of the decision.

7. Are official GRE/GMAT scores required to be accepted?
Certain programs require official test scores in order to be accepted. Please read the appropriate program description to learn whether your program will require an official test score. If the program does not require an official GRE or GMAT then you do not need to submit one of these exams to be accepted. Students must submit one of these exams if they wish to be fully considered for all scholarship opportunities.

8. Can I apply to begin my studies during a summer session?
Yes, all students are eligible to apply for initial admission during the summer (we have two summer sessions that last six weeks each, one beginning in May and another in late June). However, the University does not recommend that international students enroll initially in the summer. There is no orientation offered for new students, which is an invaluable tool for our international students who face the difficult task of adjusting to a new culture and way of life. In addition, the summer is not a required session for Saint Joseph's University programs, so there are fewer classes offered, fewer students on campus (which is likely to make finding housing more difficult), and fewer support services available. Finally, summer classes are taught at a highly accelerated pace, making the task of adapting to new teaching styles and a second language very difficult. We know that you are eager to begin your academic career, but please consider these factors carefully before committing to a summer start. Students considering a summer start are encouraged to wait until the fall semester.

9. Do I require an academic credentials evaluation?
All international student applications to the University will undergo a credentials evaluation process as a part of the Saint Joseph’s University admissions review process. Please note that effective fall 2008 academic credentials will be evaluated within the University. Under certain circumstances, students may be requested to obtain a credentials evaluation through a credentials evaluation service recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Students who possess credentials already processed by a NACES-recognized provider are encouraged to submit an original evaluation as part of their application documents. Students can visit http://www.naces.org/ for additional information.

10. I am currently enrolled at another institution and would like to transfer to Saint Joseph’s. What do I need to do?
International students wishing to transfer to SJU must submit a regular application with all the required documents. In addition, if you would like the credits taken at the prior institution to count toward your Saint Joseph's University degree you must submit an official transcript from the prior institution. Please note that no more than six credits are typically permitted to be transferred from another institution toward a Saint Joseph's University graduate degree. Final confirmation regarding which courses may transfer will be determined by the academic department.

11. Does Saint Joseph’s University have a conditional acceptance program for students needing to improve their English-language skills? What is the EPIS program?
Students who need to improve their English-language skills may apply concurrently to both Saint Joseph’s graduate programs and to the ELS Center located on our campus via the EPIS program (English Program for International Students). You will be considered by the University for conditional admission based on your application materials excluding the English-language requirement (and official GMAT/GRE score, if required). If the graduate program decides that you are an admissible candidate pending successful completion of English language studies (and the required GMAT/GRE score, if required) you will be issued a letter of conditional admission. Once you have successfully completed ELS Level 112 you will be eligible for full admission to the University. If your graduate program also requires an official GMAT/GRE score, then you will also have to achieve the required score on that exam before you will be fully admitted.

12. What do I need to do to defer my acceptance to a future semester?
Students who have been accepted and would like to defer their acceptance to a future semester should send an e-mail to graduate@sju.edu to request a deferral. You will then need to send updated financial documents to the Center for International Programs as soon as possible in order for a new I-20 to be issued. Your proof of available funds should be no older than three months from the date that you send them.

13. How long can I defer my acceptance?
Acceptance can be deferred for up to one year. After one year has passed the acceptance can no longer be deferred and the student will need to submit a new application.