Frequently Asked Questions - For U.S. Citizens
Regarding Admission
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How do I apply to the chemistry graduate program?
Use the online application process via our departmental web site, www.chem.iastate.edu. Online application is free! Begin by following the instructions provided under the Apply On-Line tab.
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Where do I send my other application materials?
After submitting your application online, please send your supporting documents (transcripts) by mail to:
Chemistry Grad Admissions
Letters of recommendation are to be sent by the writer, either by mail as specified above, or sent to the E-mail address used for this purpose only:
Iowa State University
1605B Gilman Hall
Ames, IA 50011-3111chemlett@iastate.edu
There is no deadline, but it is advantageous to make early application. -
Is there an application fee?
No, provided you apply online to the Department of Chemistry.
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Do I need to apply to the Graduate College now?
No. If you are extended an offer, a Graduate College application will be sent with your offer package and may be completed and return with your signed letter of acceptance.
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After my application and materials have been received, how
long before a decision is made?
All applications are reviewed when complete. A complete application package includes the on-line application, transcripts and three letters of recommendation. The review process may take up to three weeks to complete. Additional time may be needed due to University holidays.
Students who are offered admission are notified by both mail and email.
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How will I know that my application is complete?
You will receive an email once your completed application packet has been sent to the Admissions Committee for review. Also, when you set up an account in our on-line database, you will be able to monitor the progress of your application throughout the review process.
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Must I obtain an MS degree before the Ph.D.?
As long as you are in good academic standing, you are encouraged to construct a program allowing you to proceed directly to the Ph.D. degree. Exception: Chemistry Education does require a MS degree as a prerequisite.
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What about financial assistance?
All students in good standing receive a stipend with a teaching or research assistantship. The stipend amount for 2008 will be $22,248 for the year.
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Am I paid during the summers?
As long as you remain a student in good academic standing, you receive a research or teaching stipend for the entire calendar year.
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What about health insurance?
Health insurance is paid for a graduate assistant. Additional insurance may be purchased for family members.
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How long does it take to obtain the chemistry Ph.D.?
The national average is 5.7 years; Iowa State's average is 5.2 years.
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How does Iowa State's Chemistry Program help me get a job?
The Department will assist you with your job search as will the Office of Career Services in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. The Department of Chemistry maintains an active file of open academic positions. Many companies come to the campus to interview chemists. Your major professor may also assist you finding job opportunities.
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What are the requirements to transfer to Iowa State?
In addition to the regular application materials, the Department of Chemistry requires a letter from the chairperson of your present department if you will not be receiving a degree before your planned transfer. This letter should state that, in the event you receive an assistantship offer from Iowa State, you will be released from further obligation to that department, and that you are a student in good standing. Your application materials will not be reviewed until receipt of this letter.
The Department of Chemistry anticipates a letter from your research advisor.
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Will any of my classes from my master's degree transfer to Iowa State?
After you are admitted, we ask that you submit materials (tests, syllabi, papers, etc.) from all the courses you have previously taken toward your MS degree. The materials are then reviewed by our Graduate Activities Committee to determine transfer credit.
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What are the codes for the Educational Testing Service (ETS)
for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)?
Iowa State University 6306 General chemistry 0301 Analytical Chemistry 0302 Inorganic Chemistry 0303 Organic Chemistry 0304 Physical Chemistry 0306
Planning Ahead
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When should I arrive on campus to begin graduate study?
The training program for teaching assistants and the orientation program for new graduate students admitted for Fall Semester 2006 begins August 7, 2006, shortly before the start of the fall semester. You should plan to arrive in Ames in time to make housing, financial and other personal arrangements.
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How do I find a place to live in Ames?
Once you have accepted our offer, a package of information about on-campus housing will be sent to you by the Department of Residence. See their web page for more information: www.housing.iastate.edu
If you prefer to live off-campus, a list of housing options is available here
Information about the city of Ames can be found on these web pages:
City of Ames: www.city.ames.ia.us
Ames Visitors and Convention Bureau: www.visitames.com -
How much in tax is deducted from my paychecks?
Actual dollar amounts are difficult to determine but both federal taxes and State of Iowa taxes are withheld from each paycheck. Social Security taxes are not withheld.
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When do I register for classes?
Class registration will be completed on-campus during your orientation prior to the start of the school year.
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When do I select a major professor?
First-year students attend lectures given by faculty members and meet with them individually. The selection process ordinarily concludes by mid-November.
