Admissions

Your statement of purpose should be approximately 500-1,000 words. Your statement of purpose can be uploaded on the Supplemental Items listing page. When preparing the statement of purpose, candidates should address the following:

• Describe how your previous professional, educational, and personal experience inform your decision to apply to this program
• Describe what you think you will gain from your participation in this program and your goals after completion
• Identify any specific elements of the program that attract you

An academic writing sample (e.g., a published or unpublished paper) that demonstrates clear, logical, conceptual, and analytical thinking, as well as the proper use of citations and references.

All applications require transcripts from degree-seeking college institutions. AU standards ask for a minimum 3.0 GPA for undergraduate work. A transcript uploaded by a student is considered “unofficial.” Departments use these during their review period.

Official transcripts are required only after the applicant has accepted admission to American University. Official transcripts must be sent and received by a university representative and should confirm the earned degree when applicable. International transcripts will need to be evaluated and show equivalency of the U.S. four-year degree. Please include a WES evaluation with your transcript. Your unofficial transcripts can be uploaded on the Supplemental Items Listing page.

3 Letters of Recommendation Required. Recommenders will evaluate a candidate based on academic performance, motivation for program of study, intellectual capacity and/or research and writing ability.

The résumé should list a candidate’s relevant work experience, internships, research, awards, and/or publications, as well as educational history. A curriculum vitae (CV) is also accepted. Your résumé can be uploaded on the Supplemental Items Listing page.

• Prior teaching experience is not required, but is strongly recommended. The Admissions Committee carefully reviews each applicant’s personal and professional experience to assess readiness for graduate study at American University. In order to ensure your success, candidates must provide the following to be considered for the program:
• A Master’s degree; if no Master’s degree, candidates will need to complete 24 graduate level credits prior to enrollment in the EdD
• TOEFL (non-native English speakers)
• International Students: International applicants are eligible to apply, provided they have successfully completed the equivalent of a US Master’s degree, have the appropriate diplomas and/or satisfactory results on transcripts and meet additional ELP requirements.
• EdD applicants may be invited to attend an interview with EdD program faculty as part of the application process.