Application Link & Checklist

The Online Application

Applications to the program are made through the Slate platform.  The application for 2026 admissions will open in mid-September.

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The Application Checklist

 
Applications must contain all of the following to be considered complete. 
  1. Completed online application
  2. Current résumé or CV
  3. Personal statement - 500 word limit. See the Application Components page of the website for more details.
  4. Unofficial transcripts from each post-secondary school attended, uploaded through the online application system.  International graduates must have an official transcript evaluation sent from Certifile, WES or another independent evaluation service based in the US. 
  5. Three letters of reference - Three are required and no more than three will be considered. Letters should come from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s suitability for graduate study and interest in genetic counseling, and should include one from someone who can comment on relevant professional skills, such as a practicing genetic counselor, genetics professional or comparable healthcare professional, lab manager, supervisor at a crisis counseling center, etc.; one from a professor; and one additional reference, which can also be from a professor.  * Reapplicants should request a new letter from a recommender who can comment on the additional preparation for a career in genetic counseling the applicant has undertaken since the previous application.  Find more details for submitting these letters on the Application Components page of the website.
  6. Official score reports for the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) - * optional  We do not require GRE scores but will review them if an applicant believes the scores will be beneficial. The GRE code for UPenn is 2900.
  7. TOEFL or IELTS scores if required (Scores are required for applicants whose native language is not English or who have not earned degrees or diplomas from post-secondary institutions in English-speaking countries, e.g. the United States, Canada, England, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand).
  8. Nonrefundable application fee of $75.  Click here for information about our program fee waiver policy.  The deadline to apply for a fee waiver is November 25.

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  • All required supporting documents should be submitted through the online application system.
  • Please urge recommenders to upload their letters through the online system.  It is quicker and more secure.
  • Hard copy material other than official transcripts and letters of recommendation will not be accepted.