My Guide to SOPHAS

For MPH and MS Applicants: Application fees are set by SOPHAS developers and may change without notice. Please check SOPHAS for the most current fees.

For Graduate Certificate Applicants: Note: Application fees are set by SOPHAS developers and may change without notice. Please check SOPHAS Express for the most current fees.

What should I do before I start my application?

• For updated information on admission requirements, please visit our Graduate Certificate Admissions Requirements or the Master's Program Admissions Requirements pages.
• Focus on finishing out-standing courses or other prerequisite needs at this time, and begin reaching out to potential letter of reference authors.
• Begin gathering the needed documentation in preparation for your application submission.
• Check our graduate program admission page and note what is required for each deadline. This can greatly affect your timeline for submitting documents and completing your SOPHAS application.

What is the timeline for submitting a successful application?

• For updated information on program deadlines, please visit https://publichealth.indiana.edu/masters/apply/index.html
• At Least 3 Months Prior to Deadline:
  • Begin the SOPHAS application (SOPHAS Express if applying for a graduate certificate).
  • Inform references of the process and ensure they have agreed to participate.
  • Complete the Colleges Attended section and References section immediately so that references and transcripts can be received by SOPHAS.
  • Request that transcripts be sent to SOPHAS directly from your schools and confirm with your references that they have received the online reference request via e-mail.
  • Request that additional copies of transcripts be sent to you directly so that you may begin entering your coursework into your SOPHAS application.
  • Begin drafting your personal essays for each program to which you plan on applying.
  • Monitor your application for receipt of transcripts and letters of reference and follow up with SOPHAS on any missing items.
  • Complete filling out application and submit it to SOPHAS.
  • SOPHAS application has been submitted and all transcripts, payments, and at least two letters of reference have posted to the SOPHAS application.
  • The application has received a complete date and is in line for verification.

  Can I submit my application before my transcripts or test scores arrive?

  Yes, you should submit as soon as you have completed your application. Do not wait for letters of recommendation, official test scores or transcripts to arrive. Submitting as early as you are able will expedite the processing of your application. However, once submitted, no additional changes can be made (although you may add additional designations).

  What should I do after I submit my application?

  Once you submit, you should monitor often your status in the “my status” section to ensure all required documents are received and your application is being processed. SOPHAS will e-mail you if there is an issue with any documents. Check your status often until your application is complete.

  Are there specific requirements for international students?

  SOPHAS will only accept evaluations obtained from World Education Services (WES ICAP). SOPHAS cannot accept any documents other than the WES ICAP evaluation. For more information on applying as an international applicant, visit www.my.sophas.org

  By when will I receive a response from the institutions to which I am applying?

  While all schools and programs strive to review applications as quickly as possible, the timing varies depending on their deadlines and internal processes.

  How will I know what the status is of my application?

  Applicants should log into both their SOPHAS and WES accounts (if applicable) often to track their application status. If there is an issue, SOPHAS and/or WES will communicate with students via email messages.