PhD Application Instructions

While the Case Western Reserve University School of Graduate Studies administers the application process for the PhD in Nursing program, the Admissions Office at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing would be happy to assist you with your application.


To Make Applying Easier

Before submitting your application to the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, please note the submission deadlines. You will need a credit card to submit your $50 application fee, if applicable.

Application Deadlines
We offer two admission cycles per year. Applicants must submit all materials (including receipt of recommendations and transcripts) by the following deadlines to be considered for admission that term.

  • Fall admission: January 31
  • Spring admission: August 15

Content Required for PhD Applications

  • Written Statement (3 pages): The purpose of this essay is to describe your educational, professional objectives, and research focus. Address the three specific questions, and limit your essay to three double-spaced pages, dedicating one page per question. Clearly state your research area of interest. Identify one or more potential faculty mentors (see list of eligible mentors), and ensure to describe how your research interests align with the faculty member(s)’ expertise.

  • Curriculum Vita or Resume: Include education, employment, prior research experience, scholarship (list any publication, thesis, or presentations you co-authored), memberships, community activities and leadership activities (if any), or anything else you would like to highlight.

  • Three recommenders: Enter the names and emails of 3 individuals who will provide recommendations on your behalf who know your work and potential for success in a research doctoral program. At least two of these references should be from individuals with a PhD or equivalent research degree.

  • Transcripts: Official college or university transcripts for each previous graduate and undergraduate education institution.

  • Application Fee: $50 (pay via credit card).

  • Legacy Fellowship Applicants only: Please provide an essay crafted as a letter requesting consideration for this fellowship which is highly competitive. In your letter, detail how you fulfill both the requirements and eligibility criteria for the Legacy Fellowship, as described on our website. Highlight your unique achievements and personal qualities that distinguish you from other applicants seeking this funding. Label your document as "Legacy Fellow Essay/Letter."

  • Derry Ann Moritz Scholarship Applicants only: Please provide an essay crafted as a letter requesting consideration for this fellowship which is highly competitive. In your letter, detail how you fulfill both the requirements and eligibility criteria for the Moritz Fellowship, as described on our website. Highlight your unique achievements and personal qualities that distinguish you from other applicants seeking this funding. Label your document as "Moritz Scholarship Essay/Letter."

Note: Applicants can't apply for both the Legacy Fellowship and the Moritz Scholarship.

PhD Admissions Process

Interview Schedule:
Once your application is submitted and reviewed, shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview. Interviews are scheduled during the following periods:

  • For Fall Admission: February through Early March
  • For Spring Admission: Late August through Mid-September

Admission Decision Process:
The PhD admissions committee evaluates all interviewed applicants and provides recommendations for admission. The anticipated decision timelines are:

  • Mid-March for Fall Admission
  • Mid-October for Spring Admission

However, please be aware that an admission decision becomes official only upon approval by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS). Candidates who are approved will subsequently receive a formal acceptance letter from the SGS which may come several weeks later.

Scholarship Information:
Candidates who have been admitted and are eligible for scholarships will be informed about their scholarship awards by:

  • Late November for Spring Admission
  • April 15 for Fall Admission

Note for International Students:
Please note the anticipated timelines above, and plan accordingly. We highly recommend that international students apply by the Spring deadline for Fall admission (or Fall deadline for Spring admission). This allows ample time to process visa applications and other necessary documentation.

Ready, Set...

Go Apply Now!