Admission

Application Deadlines

Applicants are accepted for Fall admission only.

Please visit Centralized Application Service for Graduate Psychology (PSYCAS) to complete your application.

Application Materials

All application materials should be uploaded through the online application form. Neither the Office of Admissions nor the School of Nursing and Health Professions accept mailed materials.

Admission Requirements & Steps

Admission decisions are based on the overall fit of each applicant to the mission and aims of the Clinical Psychology PsyD Program program. The Admissions Committee conducts a comprehensive review of all application materials with particular regard for the breadth and depth of an applicant's background based on the personal statement, prior clinical and research experiences, and letters of recommendation.

Applications that successfully pass the initial Admissions Committee review are invited to attend the PsyD Program Interview Day.

Application Requirements

1. Completed PSYCAS online application and pay fee. For application-related questions, please contact PSYCAS by chat, phone at 617-612-2088, or by email at psycasinfo@liaisoncas.com.
2. Completion of a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology from an accredited institution, within the last seven (7) years. —OR— Completion of a bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited institution, and completion of at least three (3) of the following undergraduate or graduate courses with a grade of B or better, within the last seven (7) years:
   • Research Methods (Required): this course must be taken in Psychology or a related social sciences field (e.g., public health) and at least two (2) of the following courses:
   • Abnormal Psychology/Psychopathology
   • Lifespan Development: this course must cover the entire lifespan. This prerequisite may include the combination of multiple courses in childhood development and adult development to satisfy the requirement.
   • Theories of Personality/Theories of Psychotherapy
   • Prerequisite Notes:
     Prerequisite courses may be taken at a variety of institutions. If you have any questions about the courses you have taken, or in which you are planning to enroll, please contact graduate admissions in advance of submitting your application.
     
     Pre-requisite courses can be in progress upon application, however they must be completed before the start of the program if an applicant is admitted.
3. Recommended grade point average of 3.0 or higher (undergraduate major and overall)
   • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
   • Official transcripts must be requested/ordered through the PSYCAS application.
   • Note that missing transcripts will delay review of your application, even if other application materials have been submitted.
   • Transcripts that are from non-English speaking institutions should be translated into English.
   • Official transcripts will be required of applicants who are admitted to the program.
4. Starting with Fall 2021 the University of San Francisco PsyD program does not require the Graduate Records Exam (GRE) nor the Psychology Subject Test.
5. Three (3) letters of recommendation:
   • At least two (2) of which are from faculty members and/or individuals who have evaluated your academic performance and ability to successfully complete a doctoral program in psychology.
   • Strong letters will address the applicant's academic strengths, personal character, and potential for professional growth in the field of clinical psychology.
   • In the online form, enter the names and e-mail addresses for recommenders. They will receive an e-mail from USF with instructions to upload their letter. Please note that letters of recommendation must be on letterhead and signed by the recommender.
   • Please provide ample notice to your letter writers to ensure that they submit their letter prior to the application deadline. Applications will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed until all letters of recommendation are received.
6. A curriculum vitae (a professional resume may be submitted instead, as long as relevant experiences supporting your application are highlighted).
7. A personal statement of interest: The profession of clinical psychology requires individual and interpersonal competencies in addition to academic preparation. Interpersonal attributes and skills are taken into consideration in assessing an individual's qualifications for admission. The admissions committee gives careful attention to an applicant's personal statement both in terms of content (e.g. past experiences, future goals), as well as writing style, clarity, grammar, and conciseness.
   • Personal statement prompt: In 1000 words or less, please write a self-reflective essay describing your ultimate goals as a licensed psychologist, including how your personal and professional experiences have contributed to your decision to pursue a doctorate in clinical psychology. In addition, please specifically address how your background, interests, and goals align with the University of San Francisco's PsyD program and its overall mission.
   • Note: You are encouraged to talk about any unique experiences you have had in serving underrepresented populations, or any life experience that has influenced your decision to become a psychologist focused on serving underrepresented populations.
8. For international students only: For those students seeking an F1 visa, USF is not able to issue an I-20 to a prospective student before they have met all criteria for full-admission. International students are required to submit the following:
   • Certificate of Finances
   • Copy of passport
   • TOEFL, IETLS, or PTE English language proficiency exam
   • Please refer to the International Graduate Admission page for test score requirements and additional information
9. The University reserves the right to cancel cohorts due to unforeseen circumstances or low enrollment.