Applications to the HESA program are processed by the UVM Graduate College via an online admissions process. This process includes the documents that are listed below.
Applications must be received by December 1 for full consideration and Fall matriculation. Applicants are strongly advised to submit all materials (e.g., transcripts, recommendations, resume) by or before the deadline to receive a full and timely review.
Through your admissions account set up in the Graduate College, you can check whether your application is complete and all materials (e.g., recommendations, transcripts) have been submitted. Your application will not be reviewed by the admissions committee until it is complete.
Graduate Application Form
The online application form is available at the Graduate College.
Statement of Purpose
Please do not do both. The Graduate College has a separate statement of purpose. HESA requires just the one as stated here:
The HESA statement of purpose offers the applicant an opportunity to respond to a writing prompt crafted by the HESA faculty. Applicants’ statements will be reviewed for insight regarding their commitment to the field, as well as clarity of expression and grammatical construction. Select a quote that embodies a critical moment in your life and, in 500-1000 words, reflect upon your aspirations and promise for pursuing the student affairs profession as a University of Vermont HESA.
Three Letters of Recommendation
Three letters of recommendation must be submitted directly to UVM by individuals who have an academic or professional relationship with the applicant. These individuals must be well acquainted with the applicant’s accomplishments and potential for becoming an effective student affairs professional as well as readiness for graduate study. For applicants seeking to attend graduate school immediately after graduation from an undergraduate institution, at least two of these letters should be from an instructor/faculty member. Please do not include letters written by friends, family friends, therapists, or acquaintances. We recommend that applicants contact their recommenders early in the process to avoid delays in UVM receiving letters. The HESA admissions committee only reviews complete application packets.
All letters of recommendation should accompany the application to arrive by December 1. We allow a small buffer of a couple of days to allow for arrival and processing.
Unofficial College Transcripts
To reduce the significant financial burden endured by applicants during the application process, unofficial college transcripts will be accepted for initial application review and virtual academic interview. If offered admission into the program, applicants must submit official transcripts of course work (undergraduate and graduate) from every college and/or university attended to complete the admissions process.
Resume/Curricula Vitae (CV)
An up-to-date resume that attests to the applicant’s education, work and volunteer experience should be included in the application packet.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
UVM’s Graduate College requires that applicants whose native or first language is not English must submit TOEFL test scores for admissions. Minimum acceptable scores for admission to the Graduate College at the University of Vermont: Internet based = 80, Computer based = 213, and Paper based = 550. Minimum acceptable scores for a student receiving funding at the University of Vermont: Internet based = 100, Computer based = 250, and Paper based = 600.
Application Fee
$65, paid with submission of online application.
Please Note: Applications completed after the December 1 deadline cannot be guaranteed a full-review in time for invitation to a virtual academic program interview with HESA faculty. All application materials must be submitted online through the Graduate College admissions portal. GREs are not required for academic admissions to the UVM HESA program or for applicants seeking an assistantship or university funding through financial aid.
