Philosophy and Literature

• Transcripts
• Recommendation Letters
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Personal History Statement
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• Writing Sample
• Resume

The following English proficiency minimum scores are required by this program for the tests listed below. To view additional English proficiency options accepted by this program and the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars, visit the English Proficiency Requirements page.

TOEFL: Internet-Based Test (IBT): Minimum Overall Required Score: 100 (For exams taken before January 21, 2026)
Minimum section requirements:

• Reading: 19
• Listening: 14
• Speaking: 18
• Writing: 18

TOEFL: Internet-Based Test (IBT): Minimum Overall Required Score: 5 (For exams taken on or after January 21, 2026)
Minimum section requirements:

• Reading: 4
• Listening: 3.5
• Speaking: 3.5
• Writing: 4

TOEFL: Essentials: Minimum Overall Required Score: 9
Minimum section requirements::

• Reading: 8
• Listening: 8
• Speaking: 8
• Writing: 8

• Cumulative Grade Point Average from most recently conferred undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree:
  • 3.4 or equivalent (A=4.0)
• Master’s Degree Completion

*The first round of admission and funding will begin after January 10. Complete your application by January 10.

• Applicants for the special Ph.D. programs in English and Philosophy are required to have a Master’s Degree in either English, Philosophy or a foreign language for admission.