Pre-Application Support Service (PASS)
The Pre-Application Support Service (PASS) is a peer-mentoring service designed to provide support to applicants to the KU Speech-Language-Hearing PhD program by increasing transparency and visibility of graduate application resources. PASS began as a pilot program and is continuing based on positive feedback from the initial pilot.
PASS is available to all prospective applicants, but we particularly encourage first-generation students and students from low-income families to participate.
How it works
- Applicants will submit an enrollment form including any drafts of application materials that they’ve completed. Based on availability of peer mentors, applicants will be enrolled in PASS on a first come first serve basis. Applicants will be notified if PASS capacity is reached. Enrollment in PASS is open until November 30th, 2026.
- Applicants will be paired with a peer mentor who is a current SPLH PhD student at KU.
- Mentors will meet with applicants up to 2 times over phone/Zoom to answer questions and provide up to 2 rounds of written feedback on application materials.
SUBMIT YOUR INTEREST FORM HERE: https://kusurvey.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0MrYX5VaJ9C9nUy
Applying to PASS does not guarantee admission to the Speech-Language-Hearing PhD program and is entirely separate from the official admissions process. Participation in PASS is free and has no direct impact on admissions decisions. None of the information shared with the PASS program will be shared with faculty or the admissions committee, and your peer mentor will agree to keep your information confidential. Participating in PASS does not obligate you to apply to graduate studies at the University of Kansas.
PASS began as a pilot program to help us learn more about the feasibility of pre-application support services in communication sciences and disorders. Applicants may have the option to participate in a pilot study of the program. Research participation is not required to participate in PASS.
Questions? Contact Mohammad Karbakhsh at mohammadkarbakhsh@ku.edu
Resources
Below are several resources that may be helpful in understanding the PhD application process and crafting your application.
Tips for Choosing a PhD Advisor
Questions to Ask Before/During an Interview
MIT Communication Lab’s guide on how to write a statement of purpose
Swarthmore College Example CVs
ASHA programs and initiatives
ASHA has several groups that can provide resources, funding opportunities, and networking connections to assist with applications for graduate school:
S.T.E.P.: Student to Empowered Professional Mentoring Program