Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible?
For the two year MPH program, we require that applicants have completed the equivalent of a baccalaureate prior to matriculation. As a core we look for a year of science (biology, chemistry, physics) and a year of math (calculus, statistics, biostatistics). In addition, we require the test results from the GRE, GMAT or MCAT. There is no exception made to this requirement and we do not accept the USMLE.
International applicants are required to take the TOEFL if their language of instruction was not English. Our minimum accepted score for the TOEFL is 100.
For the 11–month AP MPH program, individuals must have earned a doctoral–level degree in a field related to public health (e.g., M.D., D.V.M., D.D.S., or Ph.D. in the biological, behavioral, or social sciences) or be medical students who have completed their third year in a US accredited medical school.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted through the centralized application service “SOPHAS” via www.SOPHAS.org. We are on rolling admissions and the first admissions decisions are sent in late November. Our admissions application deadline is January 15th. This is a hard deadline and we do not accept applications after this date.
What is SOPHAS?
SOPHAS is the online application service for accredited schools of public health. It functions as a centralized service to compile all of your application materials through one portal. Each applicant will submit one set of official transcripts for all schools attended, official test scores, letters of recommendations and resume/CV. You have the opportunity to personalize your essay for submission to YSPH. SOPHAS will verify the information reported and send it electronically to YSPH once complete. Normally, the SOPHAS verification process can take 2–4 weeks to complete. Please plan accordingly.
Where do I send my application materials?
All documentation is submitted directly to SOPHAS, see their website for further instructions at www.SOPHAS.org. The code for sending GRE, GMAT and TOEFL score reports is 3975 and for the MCAT is “SOPHAS”. We do not accept materials outside of the SOPHAS process.
When is the deadline for receipt of applications?
We are on rolling admissions and will begin sending admission decisions in late November. The final application deadline is January 15th. All materials, including test score results, must be submitted to SOPHAS by this deadline.
Who should write my letters of reference?
Reference letters should be written by people who know you well and can articulate your goals in public health. The more personalized details a reference can give about you, the better.
How do I apply for the Global Health Concentration?
When applying for the GHC make sure to fill out the extra essay in the school specific questions section on the SOPHAS application. Try not to duplicate your Personal Statement but make a separate point about why you are qualified for the GHC (international experience, aid work etc.). It is possible to be admitted to your division of choice but not into the GHC; you will be notified of your decision for both at the same time.
What should be in my personal statement?
Your personal statement should tell the committee about why you have decided to pursue public health. Write about something important to you, or what drives you in the field; explain things that are not immediately apparent in your resume and transcripts. We have no specific directions outside of the SOPHAS application for your statement but strongly recommend limiting the length to less than one and a half pages.
Do I have to complete the online application in any particular order?
No, once you have logged on and set up an account, you are free to enter and exit the application as you please. Keep in mind that you will be unable to view our school specific questions unless you have designated Yale as one of your schools. Our school specific section includes an essay component for applicants interested in the Global Health Concentration.
How can I verify that my documents and online application have been received?
You have the opportunity to check the status of your application and the documents received by SOPHAS through the application portal. You should check the status of your application periodically. Should there be a delay in completing your application, you may address this with SOPHAS as it may be an issue easily resolved.
Once your application has reached Yale School of Public Health electronically, we will send you a confirmation email and a reminder of the financial aid deadline. (The financial aid deadline must be met to be considered for need-based aid, regardless of the status of your application.) If any part of your application is missing, you will be notified that the application must be complete by January 15th. Only completed applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
Can I update my online application after I’ve submitted it?
Once you have submitted your SOPHAS application you cannot edit any portion except the reference letters. In this one section you may delete a reference if they have not submitted your reference letter and add a new reference.
What parts of my application will be reviewed?
The Admissions Committee will review your entire application. Applicants should show academic ability, a commitment to public health and public health experience. The “fit” with Yale School of Public Health and the “focus” of the applicant’s interest in public health should be clear.
How will I know if I have been selected?
We notify all applicants of their application status once a decision is reached. All final notifications are sent by May 31st.
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