Clinical Psychology (PsyD)

The admission committee considers many variables. The entire set of credentials presented by the applicant is considered. However, a low standing on one criterion [e.g., grade point average (GPA), Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score] does not automatically mean rejection, nor does one very high standing on one criterion mean automatic acceptance.

The School of Psychology has decided to waive the GRE test for those applicants seeking admission for Fall 2023.

The applicant must possess a bachelor's or master's degree or their equivalent from a regionally accredited institution. The prior academic record must indicate ability and preparation necessary for pursuing graduate studies.

The minimum prerequisite for the program is 18 semester hours of undergraduate courses in psychology. These include courses in general (intro) psychology, introductory statistics, psychological research methods, and nine semester hours in other upper-division, undergraduate courses. It is required that applicants have taken an undergraduate course in psychological testing, but this can be taken after acceptance.

A minimum 3.0 is required in undergraduate and/or graduate coursework. Overall GPA in a degree program and GPA in the psychology courses are both assessed.

The General Test portion is required for all applicants. Applicants are required to take the GRE subject test if they neither majored nor minored in Psychology. Xavier University's institution code is 1965.

Research experience is also considered. This may reflect anything from collecting data to publication in refereed journals.

In addition, work experience is also assessed. This may include internships and/or work experiences relevant to clinical psychology.

Three letters from academic/research sources, along with those describing other types of experience are required. It is strongly recommended that a minimum of two of the letters be from an academic resource.

Compatibility of the applicant's interests with those of the faculty is often considered, but is not necessary for acceptance.

The applicant's ability to write, as reflected in their response to the two personal statements, published research, and their response to a writing prompt given on interview day, is also taken into account.

Above all, the applicant should demonstrate why they are interested in pursuing graduate study in clinical psychology, and why they feel Xavier is appropriate for that study.

Admission Process

Please be advised that the deadline for completed applications is December 1.

Applicants from foreign countries or those who completed their degree overseas are required to submit transcripts evaluated by World Educational Services, a financial statement, a sponsorship letter, and official TOEFL scores. All applicants should see that the School of Psychology receives the following items:

• Apply on-line.
• A non-refundable $35.00 application fee.
• One copy of official transcripts from all colleges and universities previously attended. These include colleges and universities that involve transfer credits.
• Three letters of recommendation are required.
• Written statements (Personal Statement and Diversity Statement) reflecting a commitment to clinical psychology.
• GRE scores -- General Knowledge (required). Xavier University's institution code is 1965.
  (NOTE: The School of Psychology has decided to waive the GRE test for those applicants seeking admission for Fall 2022.)
• A completed application for financial assistance (optional).
• Any other information that might aid in the selection process (for example, relevant research and/or work experience).