Applying

All applications are due January 15 and there is a $70 application fee.* Initial decisions are announced by April 15.

Applicants to the philosophy graduate program at the University of Rochester must submit an online application with the following information:

  • A sample of your written work in philosophy, generally based on work done in previous courses. Successful applicants often submit a paper of no more 25 pages from undergraduate course, updated as appropriate.
  • A copy of your transcript (an official transcript will be required of admitted students before enrollment)
  • Three or more confidential letters of recommendation
  • A personal statement that addresses the following questions:
    • Why do you want to pursue graduate study in philosophy?
    • Why do you want to pursue that study at the University of Rochester?
    • What areas of philosophy are you most interested in?
  • A list of all prior courses in philosophy as a cover sheet for your work sample (Use this .doc form)
  • TOEFL scores (for non-native English speakers)**

GRE scores are not required, although students may submit them if they prefer.

*The fee can be waived when circumstances warrant it.

**If your native language is not English and you completed your secondary or higher education in a non-native English speaking country, you must take the Duolingo English Test (score of 120 or better), TOEFL (score of 100 or better), or IELTS (score of 7.5 or better) to demonstrate English language proficiency.  Students should use school code 2928 to send scores to the department.

Students choosing to submit TOEFL scores may submit results from the TOEFL iBT or Paper-Delivered Test administered at proctored test locations. TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition Test or the TOEFL ITP Assessment may also be accepted.  

The admissions committee will conduct Skype interviews with non-native English applicants prior to offers of admission, at its discretion.

Apply today >