Application and Forms
Application process
Candidates may either apply online or via downloadable print application.
Admission is a two-step process. First, you must apply to the UNC Graduate School and International Admissions. When all components are received, applications are evaluated. Step two, completed application packages are forwarded to the School of Special Education faculty for final review and recommendation.
Submit to the Graduate School and International Admissions Office the following materials along with the application fee. (Failure to submit all required materials will delay the processing of your application.)
- A completed UNC Graduate School application form
- Two official transcripts from every accredited college or university attended since high school.
- Two letters of reference from supervisors, university faculty, or colleagues with the forms.
- Statement of educational philosophy and goals.
- A copy of your teacher license or verification of passing the Elementary Content PLACE or PRAXIS II test.
- Photocopy of official GRE Scores if your GPA is less than 3.0 (GPA based on the last 60 hours of a semester system, or 90 hours of a quarter system. If you have a graduate degree GPA is calculated on your last graduate level coursework.)
- TOEFL scores for international applicants.
Letters of Recommendation
The form used for a letter of recommendation must include a letter either printed on the back of the form or attached. The letter must have an original signature. E-mailed letters with no original signature will not be accepted. Letters of recommendation may come from academic professors, employers, or from someone who is familiar with your work and professional career.
A written Statement of Educational Philosophy and Goals
This need not be lengthy. A statement regarding your teaching philosophy and why you want the degree is sufficient; usually 1or 2 word-processed pages.
The Graduate School and International Admissions office will hold the application until all original transcripts have been received. The Graduate School and International Admissions office will not forward the application to the School of Special Education until all items have been received.
Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. We encourage you to apply several months prior to your anticipated start date to ensure acceptance prior to the subsequent semester’s registration deadlines.
Coursework before admission is finalized
You may take up to 9 credit hours of coursework before your application is finalized by applying as a non-degree student. Contact the registrar’s office to be able to do so.
If your application is denied
You may ask that your application be reconsidered if you are not accepted based on your initial application. If you would like this decision to be reconsidered, you should send a letter specifying why you believe you should be admitted with specific information on steps you would take to assure successful completion of the program. If further information is needed, you may be asked to come in for an interview.
