On-Campus Ph.D. Program

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

Students must submit an application to the university graduate school. For more details visit the application instruction page.

When are applications due?

There are two application deadlines for the fall term.  Students are encouraged to apply by the priority deadline of January 31st, particularly if interested in full-time research assistantship positions; however, applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis through the final deadline of March 15th.

Please give yourself a minimum of two weeks prior to the application deadline to allow the university to receive official GRE scores.

All application material should be received by the deadline.

Where should I have my GRE scores sent?

Applicants are required to submit the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) to qualify for admission consideration to the doctorate degree programs in Educational Leadership.

Official GRE scores must be sent to UF Graduate Admissions:

  • University Code: 5812

What is the Scholarly Paper Requirement?

This information pertains to degree programs in Educational Leadership.

The scholarly paper requirement provides a measure of your potential and current ability to write at the graduate level. While student skills will increase through exposure to our program, we seek evidence that you can coherently present a thesis, develop an idea, and present your ideas on paper. Students should submit a writing sample on any topic in the general field of K-12 or Higher Education learning, teaching, critical issues or leadership the student deems important. Regardless of topic, the paper must include citations and a reference list.

For the Ph.D. program, the length of the paper should be no more than 20 pages.

When will admission decisions be made?

Admission to the program is a collaborative decision between the program faculty. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis, typically beginning around the end of February. Decisions will continue to be made through the spring semester until all spaces in the program have been filled.

What is the cost of attending?

The current graduate tuition and fees can be found here.

Is there financial aid available for this program?

Students are encouraged to apply to the UF Office for Student Financial Affairs for assistance with loans, grants, and fellowships.  A limited number of full-time research assistantships may also be available to qualified applicants.

How far in advance do I need to apply for financial aid?

Financial aid information is available from the UF Office of Financial Aid.  The financial aid process can take up to several months from submission to approval and disbursement. This should be incorporated into the student’s plan for admission and done well in advance of acceptance and the begin date for the program.

Does this program accept the GMAT?

No, the PhD program does not accept GMAT scores. Only GRE scores may be submitted for consideration.

How many credits are required to complete this degree program?

90 credits are required for the Ph.D. in Educational Leadership. Students are required to take 30 credit hours of department courses, 22 credit hours of research methods courses, 14 credit hours of electives, and 24 credits towards their doctoral dissertation.  Students with a masters degree in a similar area may transfer credits to be counted towards the Educational Leadership doctorate.