School of Canon Law

Admissions

In order to apply, you must submit the following items: application form, application fee, statement of purpose, official transcripts, official GRE test scores and letter of recommendation.

Application Form

The application form needs to be completed and signed. It can be downloaded in PDF format or filled out online.

Application Fee

There is a nonrefundable $55 application fee.

Statement of Purpose

You are required to briefly state the reasons that have led to your decision to undertake the study of canon law at The Catholic University of America.

Official Transcripts

Applicant should contact the registrar of each college and graduate school previously attended and request an offical transcript to be sent directly to the following address:

Office of Graduate Admissions
The Catholic University of America
Washington, DC 20064
202-319-5057

Transcripts marked "Student Copy" or "Issued to the Student" will not be accepted. Offical transcripts must be sent in sealed envelopes with an official university stamp or signature across the seal to ensure confidentiality.

Transcripts should show receipt of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, the courses completed towards the degree, the grade in each course and the basis for grading in effect at the institution. Transcripts should show evidence of superior achievement and ability to pursue graduate studies.

Official GRE Test Scores

Beginning with Summer 2009 applications, all applicants are required to submit GRE test scores. The GRE exam must have been taken within the past five years; otherwise the applicant will need to retake the exam. Applicants to the joint degree J.C.L./J.D. program may substitute GRE scores for LSAT scores. If the LSAT has been taken prior to applying for the JCL degree and taken within the past five years, LSAT scores may be substituted for GRE scores. If the GRE requirement is not met prior to admission, applicants must complete the GRE requirement within the first semester of coursework. For summer students, the GRE requirement must be completed within the first year of coursework. For more information about the GRE, please visit www.ets.org.

If applying for university scholarships, you must submit GRE scores. Test scores and all other required application materials must be received by the university no later than February 1.

Letters of Recommendation

Submit two (2) written recommendation on this form. If your recommenders wish to provide additional information about your qualifications for graduate study, they may also submit letters of recommendation. (Recommenders who submit letters should use their own letterhead, include their name (printed) and signature, and your full name.) Recommendation letters should be returned with your application.

Recommendations should come from former or present college or university instructors and/or employers or supervisors, giving evidence of personal aptitude for, as well as interest in and motivation for, the field of canon law.

Priests and religious must submit an additional recommendation and assurance of financial support from their diocese or ecclesiastical superior.