Graduate Program

Applying

The online application system opens August 15th.  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)
• Diversity statement: All School of Arts and Sciences and Hajim School of Engineering applicants must submit a diversity statement. A diversity statement gives an applicant the opportunity to stand out through your individuality, experiences, and potential contributions to the program.  Help may be found at:  https://careereducation.rochester.edu/resources/how-do-i-write-a-diversity-statement/ 
• 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 or TOEFL iBT Home Edition (score of 100 or better), or IELTS (score of 7.5 or better) to demonstrate English language proficiency. Scores more than two years old from the application deadline are not valid.

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.   TOEFL scores can be submitted using the code 2928.

To send in IELTS scores please use the following address:
University of Rochester
Graduate Studies-AS&E
500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd
P.O. Box 270401
Rochester NY 14627

Duolingo scores can be sent directly to the University of Rochester at no cost.

The English proficiency test requirement is waived for citizens of the following countries whose native language is English:

The requirement may also be waived if a student has completed at least three years of full time and in-person postsecondary study in one of the countries listed above of the United States. If you have this academic background and would like a waiver please email graduate.admissions@rochester.edu

The admissions committee will conduct Skype interviews with non-native English applicants prior to offers of admission, at its discretion.  We reserve the right to require further demonstration of English proficiency, even if you have received your degree from one of the above-mentioned countries.

The University of Rochester values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity for persons regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by law. Further, the University complies with all applicable non-discrimination laws in the administration of its policies, admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs and activities.

Questions on compliance should be directed to the particular school or department and/or to the University's Equal Opportunity Coordinator, University of Rochester, P.O. Box 270039, Rochester, NY 14627-0039. Phone: (585) 275-9125.

Apply today >