If you miss the Graduate School deadline, you may still apply to be a Graduate Special to begin taking coursework for your intended first semester. Materials and criteria for the Special Education and Disability Studies area of emphasis are as follows:

International Studies: TOEFL score of 550 (unless you have a college degree from a U.S. institution)
Undergraduate and Graduate GPA 3.00 (university requirements)
Preference for applicants who hold a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution in an area appropriately related to special education. High achieving applicants who possess only a Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution will be considered. Emphasis of prior degree area(s) should be appropriately related to special education.
Program application form (included in COEHD doctoral application manual)
Complete vita/resume
Sample of scholarly writing
Essay of intent - should include qualifications for completing a doctoral degree and reasons for pursuing the degree
Three letters of recommendation from professionals qualified to judge potential for success in doctoral work
Preferred: at least three years teaching special education in a U.S. public school or commensurate experience


TOEFL: 550 (paper) or 79 (internet)
IELTS: 6.5 (academic version)