PS This essay is your opportunity to show off your ability to communicate clearly. At the same time, these documents are our opportunity to understand why you want to join us and what you will contribute if you do. The substance that is most often lacking from these essays is evidence. When you make statements about yourself, back these up with examples from your life. Remember that you are setting forth an argument. If your academic history is not already cross-disciplinary then pay particular attention to demonstrating the breadth of your interests. The electronic application will only accept 2500 words (as counted by e.g. Microsoft Word). We agree that this should be sufficient. In special circumstances, we may allow supplemental discussions, by prearrangement. Fee The University of Chicago requires a non-refundable graduate application fee of $90. RL We are looking for scientists who will participate in and improve our scientific environment. Your letters should reflect your ability to be involved with and make a good impression on our academic colleagues. While the stature of the individual can help your case, it is more important that they indicate detailed familiarity with your abilities. We hope that your recommenders’ letters will help us to see your broad enthusiasm for scientific subjects as well as your specific intellectual merits. In the application, you are required to supply the name, institution, department, and email address of each recommender. The University will directly solicit the letters. Make sure your recommenders have been alerted beforehand. It is perfectly acceptable for you to discuss the content of the letter in advance. You will get better letters if you talk with the person about where you are applying and why you are excited about the options. Transcript Again, we are hoping to find the examples of your broad enthusiasm. While your Grade Point Average is important, it isn’t as telling as the choices you have made for each term’s enrollment. Feel free to elaborate on these choices in your Statement of Purpose. You are not required to send a hard copy of your official transcript as part of your application, simply upload an electronic version. Matriculating students will be required to provide official transcripts before Autumn quarter.