Considering a graduate program in the College of Arts and Sciences? Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions from prospective students. If you need more details, our team is here to help.
Yes! We invite you to connect with our grad student ambassadors online here.
All application files must include:
- Online application form
- $50 non-refundable application fee
- Official transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application review)
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Essay/Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- English language proficiency (please review the full language proficiency policy here)
Please review program-specific application requirements here.
You should upload all supporting application documents in the portal. If you need to make a change once you’ve submitted your application, then please send the revised document to us at incasgrd@lehigh.edu.
A limited number of waivers are available each admissions cycle. To be eligible, you must have started an application in the system. Opportunities to obtain a waiver will be offered in the fall and shared via email.
Some programs will interview candidates for PhD positions during their application review process. Please contact your department of interest for more information.
Yes, and it is important for all applicants to carefully read our English language proficiency policy to make sure you submit any required documents with your application. Please find the full policy here).
For the 2026-27 cycle, the history and physics departments both require GRE scores. It is optional for all other programs.
Yes, we will accept self-reported scores, but we need to receive a copy of your score report that clearly shows your full name, date of test, and scores. We will not accept scores included on your application form without a copy of the report.
Please note that, if you are offered admission and enroll in CAS, then you will be required to submit your official scores.
Average fees for full-time grad students enrolled in the 2025/2026 academic year:
- $14,940 per semester, based on 9 credits @ $1,660 per credit hour
- $600 annual technology fee
- $230 annual wellness fee
- $2,745 annual student health insurance coverage (Lehigh may subsidize up to 80% of this cost. Please review the details here.)
Please refer to the Graduate Tuition & Fees Schedule for more information.
Financial aid may be available for regular graduate students in the forms of teaching or research assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships. Students may contact the Office of Financial Aid for information about loans.
It depends! The master’s degree is awarded to qualified students who satisfactorily complete at least two full semesters of advanced work. Students complete 30-33 credit hours, and have six years to complete their program. Most master’s students complete their programs in 1-2 years.
A doctoral degree is awarded to candidates who have devoted 3+ years to graduate study. Students complete a minimum of either 72 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree or 48 credits beyond the master’s degree. All post-master’s work must be completed in 7 years, and post-baccalaureate work toward the doctorate must be completed within 10 years. Most PhD candidates complete their programs in 5-6 years.
Yes, but it depends on the program. Please consult with the graduate director of your prospective department to learn about enrollment options. You should also be aware that full-time enrollment may be important for eligibility of financial aid and deferment of student loans. It is required for international student visa compliance.
Yes, master’s students can transfer up to 9 graduate-level credits taken at another institution. You must have earned a minimum grade of B, submit a credit transfer petition, and have the recommendation of the department chair. Please review the full policy in our Graduate Student Handbook.
Each program in the college manages its own admissions cycle, so the timelines vary. To find out more information regarding your application decision timeline, you can reach out to the graduate director in your prospective department.
There are many resources that will give you a taste of life at Lehigh! Here are a few:
- The Office of Graduate Education and Life provides academic and personal resources and is the hub for our grad student community.
- The Center for Career & Professional Development supports students through their career development journeys.
- Bethlehem and surrounding Lehigh Valley provide students with rich experiences off campus.
- Our current graduate students are great resources. If you would like to talk with someone, please contact the graduate programs office and we will connect you.
Yes, there are both on- and off-campus housing options. Learn more here.
No, we do not require an enrollment deposit.
You can learn more about Lehigh’s history and establishment here.
You can view an interactive map of the campus here.
Contact us at incasgrd@lehigh.edu! We’ll be happy to get you the answers you need.