Application and Admission Requirements

Language Prerequisites

Students of social science courses whose first language is not English must provide proof of their proficiency in English by taking one of the following tests:

• The TOEFL test (minimum score of 550 required) and the TSE (Test of Spoken English, minimum of 220 required);
• The IELTS (International English Language Testing System, minimum score of 6.5. required);
• Cambridge Proficiency Exam results.

For TOEFL/TSE inquire with the American Consulate in your country for test dates, locations and application forms. For IELTS tests, given by the British Council, contact one of its offices for information test dates and locations. To ensure that test results are received in time, you are advised to make arrangements for taking the tests well in advance.

There are no language requirements for Arabic language courses.

Admission

All PAS applicants must have successfully completed at least one academic year at an accredited college or university. High school graduates may apply for special consideration.

A complete application must include:

1. a completed application form plus one passport photo (please write your name on the back);
2. proof of university education such as: matriculation documents, official transcripts or certified copies of diplomas;
3. a 200 word essay stating your reasons for applying to the PAS program;
4. two references by qualified persons, preferably academics, to be sent directly to the University;
5. English proficiency test scores for non native speakers of English wishing to enroll in Social Science courses.
6. an application fee of $50 and a housing fee of $50 (if housing is required).

Deadlines for:

• Summer Session 2000 deadline: 30 May 2000
• Semester I (Fall) 2000 deadline:  30 July 2000
• Semester II (Spring) 2000 deadline: 15 December 2000

Due to frequent postal delays, applicants are urged to send their applications via registered air mail some weeks prior to the deadline, and to fax copies of their applications to PAS at ++972-2-281 0656 , in addition to mailing the original. In the event that Birzeit telephone and fax lines do not properly function, applications may be sent by e-mail to: pas-isp@admin.birzeit.edu