FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ADMISSION

I/O PROGRAM

RADFORD 

  How do I apply to your program?
        You can download an application form, or request an application by
                      mail.  All application materials must be received by March 1st, but it is 
                     advised that your application be in by February 1st.  

  I meet the minimum standards for your program.  What are the chances that I
                will be accepted?
       Although we get many qualified applicants each year, we have relatively
                     few positions to fill.  Simply meeting the minimum standards will not
                     guarantee admission.  We typically get about 70 applicants and have
                     only 15 openings each year.

  What if I don't score well on the GRE?  Will my GPA and related
                experience make up for it? 
         Although we take all of an applicant's credentials into account when
                       making admissions decisions, the GRE is very influential.  If you do not
                       score well on standardized tests, we recommend preparing
                       for the GRE as early as possible.  There are several GRE prep courses
                       available, and many books that may help improve you score.  For more
                       information, visit www.gre.org 

   Do you take junior/senior GPA into account?
         Yes, we have found that junior/senior GPA is a better indicator of
                      graduate performance than overall GPA.

    Do you require the GRE subject test for admission?
         No.

  Do you recommend any classes that might help my chances of being
                accepted?
      It is generally helpful to have background in psychology (you must have at
                    least 18 credit hours of undergraduate psychology courses).  We recommend
                    at least one statistics and research course, as well as an
                    introductory Industrial/Organizational  Psychology course.  

    How can I find out about the status of my application?
        To see if your materials are complete, contact Sharon Gunter in the
                     graduate office.  After April, a student should contact Mike Aamodt to
                     find out about their status.

  How long does it generally take for students to be notified of the admissions
                decision?
       Students should be notified at the beginning of April if they have been
                      accepted or have been put on our waiting list.

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  What kinds of student funding are available?
        Student funding can be found in the form of grants, scholarships, loans,
                      and assistantships.  To apply, one must complete the FAFSA as early in
                      the year as possible. Specific information can be found at the RU
                      Financial Aid office.  Assistantships are available both in the psychology 
                      department and in departments throughout the campus.  Assistantships
                      amounts range from $4000 to $8700.  Tuition waivers are not included
                      in most assistantships.

   Does everyone receive funding?
        Assistantships are awarded on a competitive basis.  The number of assistantships available will vary slightly each year.

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    I prefer to live off campus.  Is there off-campus housing close to the
                 university? Is housing affordable?
         There are numerous off-campus housing opportunities ranging from
                       apartment complexes to private apartment rentals.  Most students live
                       within a few miles from campus, and many need only walk a short
                       distance to get  to their classes.  For apartment listings, you can refer
                       to Southwest Virginia's Online Apartment Guide. If you prefer to rent
                       from a private owner, your best bet is to check the listings in the
                       Roanoke Times. Housing is very affordable.  Most students pay
                       between $200 and $400 per month, depending on the number of
                       rooms and whether or not they have roommates.  

What is there to do in Radford?
         Radford is located "in the heart of the New River Valley" and at the
                       foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  When in Radford, one has the
                       luxury of relaxing in the comfort of a small town setting, enjoying a
                       peaceful hike in  nearby mountains, experiencing breathtaking views of
                       cascading water, and embodying a rush of exhilaration while paddling
                       though the white rapids of the New River.  If you prefer the nightlife,
                       options abound in either local establishments or clubs and bars in
                       neighboring towns such as Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and Roanoke.
                      Click here for more information about Radford.