Applying to Harvard TEP

The TEP application deadline has been extended to February 6, 2006

Harvard TEP is looking for deeply committed, serious individuals who want to make a difference with adolescents in schools and in the world. Lots of perspectives exist on how to write the perfect application to graduate school, and there is no shortage of them here at Harvard!

But we want to give you a heads up on the process. Consider the advice of Kay Merseth, the Director of the Teacher Education Program, and Jen Hohmann, a former TAC student, who can help put it all into real terms..

Kay Merseth, Director of the Teacher Education Program: "To get in, you have to have good scores, a strong academic record in the field you intend to teach, and recommendations from academics as well as others who can speak directly to your potential as a teacher. We are looking for people who have a deep commitment to urban education, so be sure, in your personal statement, to tell us why you want to teach in an urban school. It's important that you demonstrate some awareness of teaching, and all the better if you have some experience working with youth and teaching, whether it's as a teacher, a tutor, or a coach, and whether in a school setting or in camps or sports teams. Tell us why you are a good bet for this program and for Harvard."

Jen Hohmann, TAC Student: "The application process may seem scary and daunting, but try not to panic. Be honest in your essay - why do you want to do this? Take advantage of all of the support out there to help you. Come visit the campus and sit in on classes. Meet with the professors and program directors. Go to the school sites. If you can't come to Boston, call and ask for the names and email addresses of current students. Check it out to see what the program will really be like for you!"

More than just advice, make sure you fill out your application carefully, so that everything is in order when we receive it. For example:

• Specify whether you are a mid-career person in math or science (with 5 or more solid years working as a professional in math- or science-related fields) which makes you a good candidate for the MidCareer Math and Science Program (MCMS), or whether you are applying to the Teaching and Curriculum Program [TAC] which takes applicants right out of college as well as more experienced students.
• Indicate whether you plan to teach and be certified at the middle-school or high-school level and the subject you wish to teach.
• Like most grad school applications, you'll need the statement of purpose (why you want to do this), the usual (three) letters of recommendation, official transcripts from each postsecondary institution you have attended, and test scores from the general test of the GRE, including the new writing assessment.
• In addition, if you are or will be enrolled in coursework during the 2004-2005 academic year, please be sure to provide a list of those courses as well as a transcript of your past academic work.

NOTE: Your transcripts should show evidence of sufficient coursework (e.g., a major or its equivalent) or background experience (e.g., applied, professional work) in the subject that you intend to teach. An outline of recommended subject-matter knowledge for the various subjects is available.

For more information about the admissions process, as well as downloadable application forms, please visit http://www.gse.harvard.edu/admissions/.