Admission Requirements for Graduate Programs in Physics and Geophysics

Academic standing

We require a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4-point scale for each of the last two years of your undergraduate program and in post-graduate studies, if applicable.

Minimum requirements from other countries will be found on the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research (FGSR) website.

Additional assets include detailed and supportive reference letters, research experience, publications and conference presentations

Academic background

We require an honours or specialization degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Geophysics, Engineering, Astronomy, Geology or Mathematics.

Applicants must have completed a 4-year baccalaureate degree or its academic equivalent by the time they start in our graduate program.

Applicants' degree(s) must be from an academic institution recognized by the University of Alberta.

Proof of English language requirement

Applicants not exempt from this requirement (see the FGSR requirements and exemptions lists) must achieve the minimum scores in one of the following tests:

  • TOEFL (internet) - 90 overall with a min. of 21 on each component
  • IELTS (Academic) - 6.5 overall with a min. of 6.0 on each band
  • CAEL - 70 overall with a min. of 60 on each subtest
  • MELAB - 85 overall, min. band scores of 80, with minimum of 3 on speaking
  • Pearson Test of English Academic (PET Academic) - 61, at least 60 on each band

Note that due to COVID-19 disruptions, the University is temporarily accepting the Duolingo English Test. More information about minimum requirements can be found here.

We will not waive the English language proficiency requirement. An ability to communicate in written and spoken English is also a requirement for the awarding of a Graduate Teaching Assistantship.