PhD Admissions
The deadline for applications is January 5, 2025. The application fee is $70. We regret that we are unable to consider requests for fee waivers. If you have any questions about the application process, please contact the Department of Political Science by email at political.science@rochester.edu.
How to Apply
For your application, you will need to complete the following items. Your application is complete only when you submit the online application and we receive the other required items.
Online Application
To complete the online application, you will need to identify your recommenders and prepare a statement of purpose. Three recommenders and the statement are submitted as part of the online application. In the statement of purpose, you will provide information about yourself, your aims and plans for the future, reasons for choosing graduate study in political science, areas of specific interest, and experiences in the field (300-750 words). You should include the names of specific professors, if any, with whom you especially wish to study.
Standardized Tests
The GRE general test is required and there is no option to request a test waiver. GRE scores should be sent to department code 1902, school code 2928.
English Language Proficiency Policy: All international students are required to provide proof of English language proficiency through the submission of official test scores from one of the following exams. Scores more than two years old from the application deadline are not valid.
- IELTS: University of Rochester, Graduate Studies, 500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd, P.O. Box 270401, Rochester, NY 14627
- TOEFL or TOEFL iBt Home Edition: submitted using the code 2928
- Duolingo: students completing the Duolingo exam can select the University of Rochester as the recipient of the scores
The English proficiency test requirement is waived for citizens of the following countries:
- Australia
- Canada
- Commonwealth Caribbean Nations
- Ghana
- Ireland
- Kenya
- Liberia
- New Zealand
- Nigeria
- Singapore
- South Africa
- Uganda
- U.K.
- Virgin Islands
The requirement may also be waived if a student has completed at least three years of postsecondary study in one of the countries listed above or the United States. We reserve the right to require demonstration of English proficiency, even if you have received your degree from one of the above mentioned countries.
Transcripts
You may scan transcripts to the online application. An original transcript will be required upon admission.
Letters of Recommendation
The Department of Political Science requires three letters of recommendation. In filling out the online application, you will be asked for the names of your three recommenders, each of whom will be sent an email with a link giving them instructions on how to submit their letters electronically.
Writing Sample
You may upload a writing sample in the application. This must be a sample of your own original academic writing in English. (Translations are acceptable, provided the translation is your own work.) Please indicate the original purpose of the writing sample, and when and to whom it was submitted.
Curriculum Vitae (optional)
You may also upload a brief resume listing any additional information you believe to be relevant to your application for admission.