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2024-2025 PAU University Catalog

Application Requirements

  • Applicants must complete the online application for the PhD in Clinical Psychology program in PSYCAS.
  • Application Fee: A nonrefundable application fee must be paid to PSYCAS to complete the application.
  • Official Transcripts: Transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended must be sent directly from the institution, even if a degree was not awarded. Official transcripts should be mailed or electronically delivered by the issuing institution directly to the PSYCAS Transcript Processing Center. Admissions decisions based on submission of unofficial transcripts are provisional until official transcripts are received.
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae: The resume or CV should list professional and academic experience, education, awards, publications, and so forth.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Letters of recommendation from three academic or professional references are required. Personal references letters, such as those from family, friends, therapists or informal mentors, will not be accepted. Whenever possible, the letter writers should be faculty members in psychology or practicing professionals in psychology or other mental health disciplines. Letters are requested and submitted through the PSYCAS system.
  • Statement of Purpose: The purpose of the personal statement is to provide a sample of the applicant’s ability to write in an academic and professional manner, as well as to learn about any qualifications/life events that were not captured in the application.
  • Formatting: Double space, and limit to 1000 words.
    • Why are you pursuing a PhD in clinical psychology?  What led to this interest?
    • What are your long-term professional goals? 
    • What are your research interests, and which research labs/faculty at PAU are aligned with these interests?
    • What experience do you have engaging with or providing services to individuals from minoritized and/or marginalized populations?
    • What are your most important experiences and/or skills that will facilitate your success as a graduate student and future psychologist?
  • GRE requirements may vary by year. Please check the Admissions website for the most up-to-date information.