Eli Whitney Program

What are the application deadlines and fee, and when are applications decided?
For students resident in the United States, the application deadline is May 1. For students resident in other countries, the deadline is April 15. The fee is $75, payable to Yale University. The selection committee for the Eli Whitney program usually meets in early to mid-June, and candidates for the program are notified of their decisions before the end of June.

What if I can't remember my test scores (SAT, College Board Achievements)?
They are normally included on your high school transcript. You may also ask the College Board to send the results. While Achievement Tests and SAT IIs are not required, in most cases the SAT is required. The address and phone number for ETS are: ETS, Rosedale Road, Princeton, NJ 08541, (609) 921-9000.

I have not attended school for a number of years. What do I do about "academic recommendations?"
You may ask employers, colleagues, or other individuals who know you well to write your recommendations. You would be well-advised, however, to consider enrolling in some demanding college courses before applying to the Eli Whitney Students Program, both for the sake of establishing competence and ability and in order to obtain a strong academic recommendation.

Is an interview encouraged or required?
After we have received all of the required documents from candidates (normally late May), the Director of Admission will determine which candidates will be asked to come to the Admissions Office for an interview and further consideration.

What if I will not be able to come to the Admissions Office in late May for an interview and want to be considered as a Eli Whitney Student candidate?
If there is another time when you will be available and can come to the Admissions Office, complete your application early and call to arrange an interview. If at all possible, we will accommodate your needs.

Are there any special requirements for international students?
Candidates whose first language is not English must submit the official score achieved on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). We like to see a score of at least 600 on the paper-based TOEFL, 250 on the computer-based TOEFL, and 100 on the internet-based. International students generally must hold F-1 student status for this program and must register as full time students at all times. (A minimum of three courses / semester.) Individuals in tourist status (B1/B2 or visa waiver status) will not be permitted to enroll either on a part-time or full-time basis. If admitted, all international students must consult with the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS), 421 Temple Street, (203) 432-2305, or email oiss@yale.edu. OISS will issue the I-20 form which students will use to apply for an F-1 visa.

What if I attended Yale College but did not graduate and wish to complete my degree?
The normal procedure is to apply through the Yale College Dean's Office for re-admission. However, if you can attend only part time, have been out of Yale for over five years, and still need eighteen term courses to graduate, you may apply as a Eli Whitney Student. The re-admission route entitles you to need-based financial aid (and is full-time). The Eli Whitney Student route is assumed to be part time but offers the B.A. and B.S. Eli Whitney students must take a minimum of eighteen term course credits at Yale to qualify for a degree.

Common Questions

Eli Whitney Program

• What are the application deadlines and fee, and when are applications decided?
• What if I can't remember my test scores (SAT, College Board Achievements)?
• I have not attended school for a number of years. What do I do about "academic recommendations?"
• Is an interview encouraged or required?
• What if I will not be able to come to the Admissions Office in late May for an interview and want to be considered as a Eli Whitney Student candidate?
• Are there any special requirements for international students?
• What if I attended Yale College but did not graduate and wish to complete my degree?
• May I defer admissions?
• If I am denied admission, may I reapply?
• If I am admitted, may I take any of the courses listed in the YCPS?
• May Eli Whitney Students take courses at the graduate or professional schools?
• Can I take summer courses at Yale?

Related Links

• Frequently Asked Questions about the Non-Degree student program
• Frequently Asked Questions