what is a writing sample for phd application

How to Pick a Grad School Writing Sample

If you’re looking to take your academic career to the next level, no doubt you know that a key factor in getting into grad school is showcasing your writing abilities. Writing samples are arguably the most important part of showing off just how talented and capable you really are – but knowing how to choose the best sample for those applications can feel like an impossible task!

Don’t worry; this guide will walk you through every step necessary so that when it comes time to send in those applications, you’ll have confidence knowing that each sample you put forward is your absolute best work.

What is the point of the grad school writing sample and why does it matter?

An integral factor of your graduate school application is often the writing samples you provide; they give evidence to the admissions committee of your potential and enthusiasm for your target field. This reflects not only on your academic aptitude but also on how well-versed you are in that particular subject matter.

A writing sample is also a great way for admissions committees to get an idea of how you can contribute to the graduate program. It demonstrates your capacity to engage with innovative concepts, present your research clearly and concisely, build upon current trends within the field, and articulate compelling arguments or theories. By assessing your academic writing and critical thinking proficiency, the faculty seeks to select candidates who possess the necessary abilities to thrive academically. Moreover, they want assurance that you can be properly mentored throughout your educational journey.

When assessing samples, reviewers usually consider the following criteria:

• Structure and clarity : Is the essay’s structure sensible and cohesive? Does it clearly articulate its purpose and successfully achieve it?
• Critical outlook : Does the work display in-depth insight into the subject, including analysis of other theories or methods? Are all assertions supported with reliable evidence and research?
• Methodological apparatus: Have all sources been accurately cited throughout the paper? Are there corresponding references attached to each citation?
• Writing skills : Is every single word spelled correctly and are all the sentences grammatically flawless? Are there any oversights when it comes to typos or missed words?

(If you are wondering if you have selected the right graduate program for you? Watch this quick video where I break down mistakes to avoid.)

How to pick the right grad school writing sample

Despite applying to several graduate programs within the same domain, various universities require different lengths when it comes to writing samples. Some may ask for as many as ten pages while others permit up to twenty. Before fine-tuning your writing samples and refining them, be sure that you have already carefully considered the places where you would like to apply. In certain cases, more than one sample may even be asked for. Put in the effort beforehand so you can save yourself time later! Taking the time to ensure you understand all of the expectations for your writing sample up front will save you loads of time down the line!

No need to write something new!

A writing sample for your application is usually taken from a paper or thesis you wrote and was evaluated by college professors, whether it be at the undergraduate or graduate level. Whether it is an excerpt from a master’s thesis or a senior capstone class, any publication that reflects thoughtful consideration of key concepts in the field and meets the maximum length requirement can make you stand out. If you earned a top grade for your paper, it is already in excellent shape and can be submitted as-is. However, to make the paper even better, you may want to incorporate feedback from your grader into its structure or answer any questions that were left unanswered. You should also take this opportunity to add new citations if necessary – just don’t go overboard with modifying the project!

Creating an entirely new writing sample specifically for your application can be a burden if you don’t have the luxury of getting feedback from a professor, or even worse – take away precious time that could otherwise be spent preparing other parts of your application like the statement of purpose. Therefore, it is best to avoid creating something from scratch unless absolutely necessary. As long as your paper is well-written (and graded accordingly), you can submit a piece from a different discipline or one with an out-of-date subject/conclusion. The selection committee’s primary focus is on evaluating your writing, research, and analytical capabilities rather than the topic of your upcoming degree program. Therefore, if your best paper fits this bill even if it doesn’t directly relate to what you’ll be studying – go ahead and send it in.

Pick a grad school writing sample that reflects the writing you will be required to do in your program

When a school fails to give clear instructions (and they often do!), it is advisable to present an academic writing sample such as an essay, dissertation, journal article, or research paper. The focus of your submission should be in line with the major you are applying for. Doing so will highlight your aptitude for analyzing and exploring ideas within that particular field.

If you want to be considered for a research-based graduate program, such as a Ph.D. or Master of Science, your writing sample should illustrate your aptitude for producing research papers. If you are applying for any program other than creative writing or journalism, you should demonstrate your academic abilities and engagement in ideas by submitting an appropriate piece of written work. Choose a paper that was assigned to you as part of coursework rather than essays, memoirs, blog posts, or newspaper articles. Consider the research you have done and your accomplishments in your field, then select an example that reveals how adeptly you can analyze a great deal of information as well as introduce innovative concepts.

Your writing sample should not simply reiterate the already established research. Instead, showcase your own ideas and arguments while maintaining awareness of where they fit in an existing conversation within your field. Provide sufficient context to show that you understand how academics can guide you as a researcher, writer, and scholar – but also demonstrate why you have what it takes to be an influential member of the research community.

For professional programs like an MBA or MPA degree , an ideal paper would demonstrate skills like crafting business case studies and policy analysis respectively. When submitting your application for a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, make sure to include the best creative writing sample you have. For those applying to Journalism programs, it would be most beneficial to send along a long-form journalistic article that accurately reflects the type of work expected during graduate studies; don’t submit anything that isn’t reflective of what will be taught and is required!

If you are seeking to obtain a graduate school degree in marketing, communications, public relations, public policy, or other related areas of study and have work-related writing samples such as white papers, policy briefs, news articles, and grant applications submitted then this could be an excellent option for you. However, exercise caution when creating your portfolio. If you choose to include content that was written for work purposes, ensure it is solely authored by you and accompany the piece with a separate explanation regarding its origin and authorship. Keep in mind that reviewers are judging and assessing you as an individual!

How long should my grad school writing sample be?

There’s no simple answer to the question, as the target length depends on the program you’re applying for. The importance of reading and following all of the instructions carefully throughout your application cannot be overstated.

If your institution doesn’t provide specific instructions, opt for a scholarly essay. Even better, get in touch with the department to ensure you’re on track! Most departments have experienced directors of graduate studies and admissions specialists who are more than willing to help guide you through this process. Moreover, this experience could prove an invaluable asset when you apply for the program later on.

Don’t exceed the maximum word limit

When submitting a writing sample as part of your graduate school application, it is important to respect the word limit specified by the institution. This is because admissions officers often have hundreds or even thousands of applications to read and evaluate. Sticking to the word limit demonstrates that you can follow instructions, work within constraints, and present yourself clearly and concisely – all important skills for success as a graduate student. Furthermore, if you go over the word count, this could make it difficult for someone who has limited time to review your entire piece. By respecting the word limit given and crafting a concise yet meaningful piece of writing, you are more likely to stand out in the minds of admissions committee members!

Which part of your honors thesis or master’s thesis should you send as a sample if you have a word limit?

When selecting a sample from a long piece of writing, such as a thesis, to send for graduate school admissions, it is important to carefully consider the kind of content you are sending. Your sample should reflect your writing abilities, research interests, and expertise in a specific field. Choose a section of your writing that you are particularly proud of and that demonstrates both your knowledge and writing skills in a meaningful way. It is also beneficial to include a short introduction that outlines the focus, purpose, and aims of your writing to help the admissions team gain a better understanding of the context and scope of your writing.

Depending on the program, you may want to select a part of your thesis that specifically pertains to the focus of the graduate school. For example, if you are applying to a program in literature, you may want to submit an analysis of a text or a comparison between two texts. When selecting the content, be sure to pick something that demonstrates your knowledge of the subject and your ability to think critically about it.

Tips Before Sending

Before submitting your work, whether it be an academic paper or other form of professional sample, make sure that you put in the necessary effort to ensure that your final result is as polished and perfected as possible. To do this effectively, follow these steps:

• Invite a person you trust to review your work and offer their thoughts, which you can then choose whether or not to incorporate.
• Thoroughly proofread your paper several times to ensure all spelling and grammar are correct.
• To ensure your writing is flawless, check for any typos, formatting errors, comments or tracked changes, run-on sentences and duplicated paragraphs.
• Optimize your document by renaming it with essential details that make it easier for busy admissions personnel to locate. For instance, you can use a format such as: Writing Sample_Name of applicant_Title of paper/project.
• Ensure that you utilize a consistent and accurate citation style throughout your document for optimal results.

Ensure your academic paper is comprehensive by including all of the following sections as a minimum: an introduction that set the topic, a cohesive body, a clear conclusion, and references.

After taking the time to find the best grad school writing sample for grad school, you are now ready to take your next step and apply with confidence. You should feel incredibly proud of yourself for reaching this milestone. This process takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to evolve and improve your writing. As you continue through this journey, remember that you are always capable of infinite growth– and often there is great comfort in seeking guidance from an expert who can provide valuable insight and direction. If you’re looking for supportive advice or a professional opinion on any part of the application process, consider signing up for a free consultation today. It’s never too late to take steps toward realizing your dreams; congratulations on embarking on this amazing journey!

With a Master’s from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University, Dr. Philippe Barr is the founder of The Admit Lab . As a tenure-track professor, Dr. Barr spent a decade teaching and serving on several graduate admission committees at UNC-Chapel Hill before turning to full-time consulting. With more than seven years of experience as a graduate school admissions consultant, Dr. Barr has stewarded the candidate journey across multiple master’s and Ph.D. programs and helped hundreds of students get admitted to top-tier graduate programs all over the world .

Follow me on Instagram and TikTok for tips and tricks on navigating the grad school application process and weekly live Q&A sessions!

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How to choose a writing sample for graduate school

If you’re serious about pursuing a post-bachelor’s degree, it’s never too early to start gathering all the materials you’ll need. Most programs will ask you to submit one of the following: an essay response to a prompt or a writing sample. If you’re in need of guidance on the latter, keep reading for advice on how to select and prepare an impressive writing sample for your graduate school application.

We gathered expert insight from Dr. James R. Martin, an associate professor and assistant director of interdisciplinary leadership at Creighton University. Dr. Martin has reviewed hundreds of applications throughout his career, so consider his advice about what makes a great graduate school writing sample. But first, it’s important to understand the purpose of this application element.

What is a writing sample for grad school and why is it important?

Writing samples are a key part of most grad school applications. They show the admissions committee the quality of your previous work and demonstrate interest and proficiency in your chosen field.

According to Dr. Martin, reviewers are generally evaluating samples for the following criteria:

• Solid writing skills : Is all spelling and grammar accurate? Is it free of typos?
• Organization and clarity : Is there a logical flow to the ideas presented? Is the purpose of the sample clearly identified and accomplished?
• Critical thinking : Does it demonstrate a thorough understanding of the topic, including consideration of alternate theories or approaches? Are all claims backed by reliable research?
• Consistent citations and references : Have sources been properly cited throughout the work? Do all citations have a corresponding reference?

How to choose a writing sample for grad school

Some schools don’t specifically state what kind of writing sample they are seeking. In that case, it’s best to err on the side of academic work. Some common writing sample examples include essays, dissertations, theses, journal articles, capstone projects or research papers. If possible, you want to submit a piece that demonstrates your proficiency in analyzing a topic in the same (or related) field as the program for which you are applying.

There are some professions and corresponding graduate school programs that accept work-related writing samples, such as white papers, policy briefs, news articles and grant applications. If you’re pursuing higher education in marketing, communications, public relations, public policy or other similar fields, these could be good writing sample ideas.

However, Dr. Martin cautions prospective students to vet their choices carefully. If you do send in materials you wrote for work, make sure you’re the only author — and write a secondary note explaining the context and authorship. After all, reviewers are evaluating you , not your team.

How long should a writing sample be?

There’s no simple answer for this question, as the target length depends on the program you’re applying for. The importance of reading and following all of the instructions carefully throughout your application cannot be overstated.

If your desired school doesn’t state specific requirements, Dr. Martin advises choosing an academic paper. Or better yet, you can take the initiative to reach out for clarification.

“Most departments have a director of graduate studies or admissions specialist who would be happy to have a conversation,” he says. “This interaction could end up working in your favor down the line.”

Components of a good graduate school writing sample

Now that you know how you will be evaluated and what kind of sample to submit, you need to make sure your work is as polished as possible. Whether you choose an academic paper or other professional work, apply these writing sample tips before submitting:

• Have someone you trust read it and provide feedback that you can choose whether or not to implement. 
• Run the entire paper through a spelling and grammar check multiple times. You could also consider using a free tool like the one available at Grammarly.com .
• Make sure there are no typos, formatting discrepancies, comments or tracked changes, run-on sentences, repeated paragraphs, etc., in the final version.
• Rename your document to include important information that will make it easier for busy admissions staff to find. (Try using the following example: Writing sample_Name of applicant_Title of paper or project.)
• •Make sure your citation style is consistent and correct throughout the entire document.

Your writing sample format will vary depending on the type of sample you choose. But if you are submitting an academic paper, make sure it contains all of the following sections, at minimum:

• Introduction
• List of references

Craft a solid grad school application

With the tips stated above, you should have everything you need to begin choosing and refining your writing sample for graduate school. If you’re still not feeling confident, take the following advice to heart:

“Remember that the writing sample is just one piece of your application, and we evaluate it as a whole,” Dr. Martin shares. “As a Jesuit school we strive to meet people where they are. We want to help them succeed.” Now that you have some writing sample examples and advice, you can focus on other important elements of your application. Check out our article “ How to Secure the Best Letters of Recommendation for Grad School .”

If you’re looking for a high-quality and best value graduate school program, review the requirements for Creighton University by visiting our How to Apply page .

Considering grad school?

Regardless of where you are in your journey, our admissions advisors are ready to help you take the next step.

Related Blogs

How to Secure Great Letters of Recommendation for Grad School

6 Tips for Perfecting Your Resume for Graduate School Application

How to Write a Personal Statement for Grad School

• Statement of Purpose, Personal Statement, and Writing Sample

Details about submitting a statement of purpose, personal statement, and a writing sample as part of your degree program application

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Statement of Purpose 

The statement of purpose is very important to programs when deciding whether to admit a candidate. Your statement should be focused, informative, and convey your research interests and qualifications. You should describe your reasons and motivations for pursuing a graduate degree in your chosen degree program, noting the experiences that shaped your research ambitions, indicating briefly your career objectives, and concisely stating your past work in your intended field of study and in related fields. Your degree program of interest may have specific guidance or requirements for the statement of purpose, so be sure to review the degree program page for more information. Unless otherwise noted, your statement should not exceed 1,000 words. 

Personal Statement

A core part of the Harvard Griffin GSAS mission is to identify and attract the most promising students to form a dynamic and diverse community. We are committed to educating individuals who reflect the growing diversity of perspectives and life experiences represented in society today and who will contribute to our commitment to sustain a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment. Please share how your experiences or activities will advance our mission and commitment. Your statement should be no longer than 500 words.

Writing Sample 

Please visit Degree Programs and navigate to your degree program of interest to determine if a writing sample is required. When preparing your writing sample, be sure to follow program requirements, which may include format, topic, or length. 

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The Writing Sample for Graduate School

Applying to graduate school and choosing academic writing that showcases your academic excellence can be challenging. Don’t worry! Although your writing sample is crucial, it doesn’t need to be perfect. It should effectively communicate, demonstrate your potential for advanced academic work, and importantly, show your ability to specialize in a program’s field of interest. We offer tips to help you select the best writing sample for your graduate school.

Use an Appropriate Professional Style Guide

Your writing sample should show topical expertise, but also an understanding of professional research. Find the standard style guide for your chosen field, and make sure it’s applied consistently–not just citations, but also any formatting for cover pages, pages numbers, and bibliographies.

Keep it Relevant

Select a sample that closely reflects your areas of potential interest. This means the sample with the highest grade may not be the best. It may be worthwhile to revise a B+ paper and use it a writing sample if it’s more relevant to the field you want to study than that A paper from a different academic area.

Take your time!

If there’s no obvious pick that’s OK. Don’t rush when selecting a writing sample. Instead, take some time to review your options–pick something that will make an impression on the admissions committee, and don’t be afraid to revise. You may be tempted to write something new for submission – this is almost always a bad idea. Remember that previous work has been written for a reason and has likely seen feedback from trusted advisors.

Make Sure it is Free of Errors

As already hinted, you may need to edit the sample you choose. Remember you want to express your professional readiness for advanced studies with your writing sample, so triple check for typographical and other errors before submitting it with your application package.

Follow the Instructions!

ay close attention to any requirements set out for you application materials, and make sure you meet the required length. Typically, you don’t want to exceed them either–more is not always better. Remember that graduate applications are also about showing that you can follow directions.

Structure and Organization Matter!

Academic writing should be a well written with a concise beginning, clear middle and an effective end. Make sure that each part of your essay is clear, compelling, and, well, present in your writing sample. Even the most brilliant ideas and research get lost in a poorly structured essay.

Showcase Your Research Skills!

This can take different forms depending on your field. If you’re applying to an experiment-driven program in physics or sociology you may need to demonstrate your grasp of research best practices in field. In a scholarly program such as history or literature you may need to demonstrate a meaningful grasp of research with primary documents, or applying specific methodologies in analysis.

Demonstrate Your Critical Thinking

A strong writing sample showcases your critical thinking skills, which means evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of a prevailing view and drawing conclusions based on evidence. Your writing should engage with existing work in the field. In the writing sample, you show the reader what you already know and what questions you want to explore.

Reveal Yourself as an Effective Communicator

Finally, choosing a well-written academic paper for your application involves communicating complex ideas effectively, whether your own or others’ (with proper attribution). The best samples balance engaging with existing ideas and introducing your own. This balance is crucial for grad school success, offering a chance to showcase this skill and engage your reader through your writing sample .

Graduate Admissions Support

In conclusion, we know that applying for graduate school can be a stressful process. We’re here to help you navigate the ups and downs. Check out more helpful tips and articles demystifying graduate school admissions on our blog . Looking for help with your application essays? We have samples of real Personal Statements that got people accepted to graduate programs – with our expert feedback to help you write your essays.

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How to Write a Personal Statement for a PhD Program Application

Personal statement guidelines, general guidelines to keep in mind:.

• One size does not fit all : Tailor your personal statement to each program and department you are applying to. Do your research to learn what is unique about each of your choices and highlight how this particular program stands out.
• Yes, it’s personal : Showcase your unique strengths and accomplishments. Explain what influenced your personal decisions to pursue the program. Ask yourself, could this be applied to your friend or neighbor? If so, you need to be more specific and provide examples. Saying that you are a “good scientist” isn’t enough. Provide examples of your previous research experience, projects you’ve completed, and what technical skills you learned. Explain how you overcame any challenges along the way.
• Set aside enough time :  Although personal statements are generally short in length (approx. 700 words; 1-2 pages), give yourself ample time to write a strong, well-written statement. It takes more time than you think to develop a final draft for submission.
• Focus on your spelling, grammar, and vocabulary :  It’s important to present a well-written statement with good grammar and vocabulary. Write concrete, succinct sentences that flow well. Avoid flowery language. Visit the  Writing Center  for additional review and feedback.
• Proofread one more time:  Check your grammar and spelling again before submitting your final draft. Ask a friend, professor, or advisor to proofread your final draft one more time before sending it in. 

YOUR PERSONAL STATEMENT SHOULD ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

• Why do you want to complete further research in this field?  Write down a list of reasons as to why you are interested in pursuing further study in the field. When did you become interested in the field and what knowledge have you gained so far? Describe how your previous work provided the foundation and for further study.
• Why  have you  chosen to apply to this particular university ? Does the institution have a particular curriculum, special research facilities/equipment, or interesting research that appeal to you?
• What are your strengths ? Demonstrate how you stand out from other candidates. Highlight relevant projects, dissertations thesis or essays that demonstrate your academic skills and creativity. Include IT skills, research techniques, awards, or relevant traveling/ study abroad experience.
• What are your transferable skills?  Be sure to emphasize transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management skills. Give examples of how you have demonstrated each of these with specific examples.
• How does this program align with your career goals?  It’s okay if you don’t know the exact career path you plan to take after completing your PhD. Provide an idea of the direction you would like to take. This demonstrates commitment and dedication to the program.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For examples of successful personal statements, visit the  Online Writing Lab (OWL) .

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• Writing Sample
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A writing sample is required for all programs. Some programs may have specific requirements when submitting a sample; please check the department’s website for further information.

The writing sample is not a paper written specifically for your application but a written work submitted for either a grade or publication. The preferred paper to submit is one closely related to the field of study you wish to pursue in the Division. Departments prefer single-author papers, and should you submit an item with a collaborative work, all writers’ names should be included with your name highlighted, along with a memo explaining your contribution to the work.

PhD programs strongly prefer a singular writing sample. MA programs also prefer a singular, cohesive work; however, they will accept two shorter argumentative papers.

The writing sample must be in English. Multiple writing samples must be combined into a single pdf before upload.

The writing sample should be 20 to 30 pages for PhD programs, or 15 to 20 pages for MA programs, excluding bibliography or appendices. Writing samples longer than 30 pages are read only at the discretion of the departmental review committee. Applicants who would like to submit longer samples such as an M.A. thesis are strongly encouraged to provide an excerpt shorter than 30 pages, and which includes a one-page coversheet contextualizing the excerpt within the larger body of work.

We do not set a requirement for formatting or font; however, applicants are encouraged to use one of the common academic formatting styles in their field (APA, Chicago Manual of Style, MLA, etc.).

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Graduate School Applications: Writing a Research Statement

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What is a Research Statement?

A research statement is a short document that provides a brief history of your past research experience, the current state of your research, and the future work you intend to complete.

The research statement is a common component of a potential candidate’s application for post-undergraduate study. This may include applications for graduate programs, post-doctoral fellowships, or faculty positions. The research statement is often the primary way that a committee determines if a candidate’s interests and past experience make them a good fit for their program/institution.

What Should It Look Like?

Research statements are generally one to two single-spaced pages. You should be sure to thoroughly read and follow the length and content requirements for each individual application.

Your research statement should situate your work within the larger context of your field and show how your works contributes to, complicates, or counters other work being done. It should be written for an audience of other professionals in your field.

What Should It Include?

Your statement should start by articulating the broader field that you are working within and the larger question or questions that you are interested in answering. It should then move to articulate your specific interest.

The body of your statement should include a brief history of your past research . What questions did you initially set out to answer in your research project? What did you find? How did it contribute to your field? (i.e. did it lead to academic publications, conferences, or collaborations?). How did your past research propel you forward?

It should also address your present research . What questions are you actively trying to solve? What have you found so far? How are you connecting your research to the larger academic conversation? (i.e. do you have any publications under review, upcoming conferences, or other professional engagements?) What are the larger implications of your work?

Finally, it should describe the future trajectory on which you intend to take your research. What further questions do you want to solve? How do you intend to find answers to these questions? How can the institution to which you are applying help you in that process? What are the broader implications of your potential results?

Note: Make sure that the research project that you propose can be completed at the institution to which you are applying.

Other Considerations:

• What is the primary question that you have tried to address over the course of your academic career? Why is this question important to the field? How has each stage of your work related to that question?
• Include a few specific examples that show your success. What tangible solutions have you found to the question that you were trying to answer? How have your solutions impacted the larger field? Examples can include references to published findings, conference presentations, or other professional involvement.
• Be confident about your skills and abilities. The research statement is your opportunity to sell yourself to an institution. Show that you are self-motivated and passionate about your project.

Department of Writing & Rhetoric Studies

College of humanities, main navigation, how to apply, application portal now open.

The Department of Writing and Rhetoric Studies at the University of Utah announces its new stand-alone graduate program. Effective Fall 2021, we offer degrees through our department for the MA/MS and the PhD. Our nationally renowned, award-winning faculty prize on providing ongoing individualized mentoring to students. Our graduate program prepares graduates for various opportunities in academia, private industry, and nonprofit organizations. Full-time students have teaching and research opportunities both in and outside the department. 

Apply Now  

Applications due December 15th, 2023.

For more information, visit writing.utah.edu   or contact Dr. Maureen Mathison, Director of Graduate Studies at   [email protected]

The application process varies slightly between each department, but the majority of the requirements are the same. Listed below you will find a general checklist for applying to the graduate program in Rhetoric and Composition, followed by links to the department specific requirements. In each case you will apply first to the University of Utah's graduate school and then to the specific department. If you have any questions at any point in the process, please contact Writing & Rhetoric Studies for assistance.

To the Graduate School

• Apply to   the University of Utah's graduate school   (make sure that you meet the graduate school requirements before applying).
• Pay the application fee.
• Submit transcripts from all previous universities and colleges you have attended.
• International students need to submit their TOEFL scores.

To the Department

• Departmental Application: Apply here .
• GRE Scores: We do not require the GRE.
• Writing Sample: The writing sample is a critical part of your application. For Ph.D. applicants, your writing sample should be a significant paper such as a portion of your Master's thesis or a graduate seminar paper. If you are applying to an MA program, your writing sample might be a senior thesis or substantial paper demonstrating your best academic work.

In both cases, the Department of Writing & Rhetoric is looking for writing that demonstrates your analytical thinking, your sense of academic inquiry, command of rhetorical and composition tools, and your ability to engage existing literature on your topic. While your writing sample need not be directly related to the field of Rhetoric and Composition, we encourage you to select a sample that in some way addresses or engages issues relevant to writing or literacy.

• Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement: In this document, please include information that helps us better understand your motivations for pursuing graduate work in Rhetoric and Composition at the University of Utah. For example, you might discuss experiences you have had teaching writing or rhetoric, or perhaps you became interested in the field after taking a related undergraduate course. Also include the areas of Rhetoric and Composition that interest you, professors with whom you would like to work, and your future goals.
• Three Letters of Recommendation: Your letters should come from academic sources who can attest to the quality of your academic work. Please note that the English Department requires that you use a specific form for your letters.
• Application Deadlines: Both the departmental and graduate school Ph.D. and MA, with or without funding, applications are due December 15th.

If you have questions regarding the application process, please feel free to contact the Department of Writing & Rhetoric Studies.

Maureen Mathison

Department of Writing & Rhetoric Studies Email: [email protected]    Phone: 801-581-7090 Office: 3700 LNCO

Writing samples for PhD applications

People often ask me what I did to get into my graduate program and assume that I must have scored very well on the GRE and probably worked with a GRE tutor.  What they don’t know, and what every potential PhD applicant in the humanities should know, is that top GRE scores are not usually the most important component of a successful application.

In philosophy (and I’ve been told the same goes for the other disciplines in the humanities), the two most important parts of one’s graduate school application are the writing sample and faculty recommendations. I’ll focus on the former today and I’ll speak from my own experience in philosophy with the understanding that analogous points hold for the other humanities. 

Performance on standardized exams is not always the most reliable guide to whether one can excel at philosophy.

Thankfully, good graduate programs know this. Even getting a perfect score on the writing portion of the GRE is neither enough, nor even necessary, for a successful philosophy application. Far more indicative of one’s philosophical abilities is an extended piece of writing on a philosophical topic, and every good graduate program requires one in their applications. An excellent piece of philosophical writing is the sine qua non for a competitive application.

The earlier that aspiring philosophy PhD students understand this, the better.

But this is not because, say, sophomore philosophy majors ought to immediately begin crafting an essay specifically for an application and then spend the rest of their undergraduate lives perfecting it. That strategy is more likely to make one miserable than to improve one’s chances of being accepted to the program one dreams of.  Rather, one should become aware of the importance of good philosophical writing in the life of academic philosophy and begin to orient oneself toward general development of one’s philosophical writing abilities. But how does one do that?

To begin, one obviously needs to take one’s writing assignments in philosophy classes very seriously.  But not only those. For while there are standards and conventions peculiar to philosophical writing, there are ones common to most disciplines as well. Take every writing assignment in every class as an opportunity to improve.

A great way to improve your PhD admissions chances would be to spend time during a summer improving your best philosophical paper to date. 

For this is exactly what developing your writing sample will turn into, and it is best for it not to be the first time you have gone through the process.  Every paper that has ever been written could be improved.  So don’t rest on the A that you received on the final paper in your upper division meta-ethics course as a sophomore, thinking it is a sure sign of acceptance to your favored program.  Bug your professor to give you more advice on how it can be improved. Stretch yourself to edit it for mistakes and to ponder ways it could be made better. Spend some time over the summer trying to make it the best paper you can. Finally, see if your professor will look at the improved version again in the fall and give you yet more feedback.

What you read is nearly as important as what you write. 

While practicing writing is the most important part of developing your writing, the proper kind of reading is of enormous importance as well.  One learns to write like a philosopher through being exposed to lots and lots of philosophical writing. This means that you need to read philosophical works not only for their philosophical content, but also for their writing style.  You need to ask yourself questions about how a paper is written. Why is the overall structure as it is? Why did the author put this particular point this way? What are common stylistic themes across the different papers I read? Another good exercise that one of my undergraduate professors recommended to me is to actually copy out extended passages from famous works and arguments in the philosophical canon.  Among other things, when done with proper focus, this can force you to confront and answer the above questions for the best writing available.

An important caveat applies to the above, though. Reading Plato’s dialogues or Descartes’ meditations (classic examples of excellent philosophical writing) over and over will not be sufficient to help you write a good sample essay. Your writing sample needs to show that you have the ability to write the kind of essays that get published in academic journals today, and that is a very different style from some of the great works of history.  So you need to read a lot of contemporary journal articles, ask for some guidance from professors, and, for some of the best ones, look beyond what they assign in class. However, this does not mean that, even here, there is nothing to learn from the masters of the past.  It just means you need a well-balanced meal of classic and contemporary philosophical writing.

So the most important thing is not only to be  aware of the importance of your writing sample, but to start doing the kinds of things that will make you well prepared for developing it.   Writing samples are almost always extended improvements on a final class paper or a piece of one’s senior thesis.  

Finally, in order to produce the best sample you can, you need to develop the kind of relationship with one of your professors such that he or she can help you select your most promising work, and then work with you to help you whip it into application-ready shape. 

Developing such a relationship goes hand in hand with improving your prospects for the other most important part of the application—faculty recommendations—but that's a topic for another post.

Related Content

MA & PhD Application

We admit students to the MA and PhD programs in rhetoric and scientific & technical communication (RSTC) only for the fall semester of each year. You must have completed a bachelor's degree before you can begin our MA program. A master's in a related discipline such as rhetoric, technical and professional communication, English, or communication studies is required to enter the PhD program. MA students making satisfactory progress have the opportunity to continue on to the PhD and transfer in most of their master's credits.

In reflection of our commitment to an equitable and inclusive admissions process, we neither require nor consider GRE scores. Nor is there a minimum required GPA. Instead, your grades are considered holistically along with your portfolio materials, experiences, and research interests to determine if you are a good match for our programs.

We welcome inquiries from prospective students who desire additional information about our admission process (email [email protected]  with questions). Admissions and applications consultations are also available to prospective students through the Graduate School Diversity Office (email [email protected] to schedule).

Application Information

All application materials should be submitted electronically via the online admissions system  by 11:59 pm CT on  January 5. 

To help you prepare to apply, we invite you to:

• read our admissions FAQ ; and
• register for one of our upcoming information sessions

The University of Minnesota Graduate School must receive all of the following materials by the deadline before your application will be considered for fall semester admission. Please work closely with your recommenders and advise them on deadlines to ensure their letters are submitted before the application deadline.

 To ensure that the application review process is consistent and fair, we only review the materials listed below. Any unsolicited or extra materials will be redacted from the application packet reviewed by faculty.

Our admissions committee performs an equity-based holistic review of all completed applications. Reviewers look for strengths in the following areas:

• Academic preparation
• Scholarly and professional potential
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion statements and commitments
• Alignment with the program
• Potential for growth  

Questions or Access Requests

Please contact Allie Cooperman, Graduate Programs Coordinator, at [email protected] if you have any questions or access requests.

Gradate Application Writing Sample Requirements

Department of comparative literature.

Please provide an example of your scholarly writing, normally a seminar paper, approximately 5000 words, in English. Choose an essay that reflects your best literary-critical or analytic work. It should not be a sample of creative writing. Although not required, you may additionally provide a short example of your writing in a language other than English.

Department of French and Italian

Please submit 2 samples of 20 pages each, one in English and the other in French or Italian, demonstrating the applicant's skills at literary analysis of French or Italian texts. While these academic research papers best demonstrate applicants' skills at the tasks we stress in this program, if students would like to add a (short) writing sample using literary critical skills in another genre, they are welcome to do so.

Department of German Studies

Submit a critical or analytic sample of scholarly writing, approximately 5000 words, in either German or English. Choose a sample that reflects your best scholarly work. The writing sample should not be a sample of creative writing. The writing sample and letters of recommendation should indicate your preparedness for conducting scholarship in German Studies, and why your interests in German Studies would be best served in a program such as ours.

Department of Iberian and Latin American Cultures

Please submit 2 samples of 20 pages each, one in English and the other in Spanish, demonstrating the applicant's skills as a literary critic.

Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures

Please submit a sample of about 20 pages in English, demonstrating the applicant's skills at literary analysis of Slavic texts. If students would like to submit an additional short writing sample in Russian or another relevant language, they should feel free to do so. While research papers best demonstrate applicants' skills at the tasks we stress in this program, if students would like to add a (short) writing sample using literary critical skills in another genre, they are welcome to do so.

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Writing a Personal Statement

Preparing to Write

Brainstorming, don't forget, sample prompts.

A personal statement is a narrative essay that connects your background, experiences, and goals to the mission, requirements, and desired outcomes of the specific opportunity you are seeking. It is a critical component in the selection process, whether the essay is for a competitive internship, a graduate fellowship, or admittance to a graduate school program. It gives the selection committee the best opportunity to get to know you, how you think and make decisions, ways in which past experiences have been significant or formative, and how you envision your future. Personal statements can be varied in form; some are given a specific prompt, while others are less structured. However, in general a personal statement should answer the following questions:

• Who are you?
• What are your goals?
• How does this specific program/opportunity help you achieve your goals?
• What is in the future?

A personal statement is not:

• A variation of your college admissions essay
• An academic/research paper
• A narrative version of your resume
• A creative writing piece (it can be creative, though)
• An essay about somebody else

Keep in mind that your statement is only a portion of the application and should be written with this in mind. Your entire application package will include some, possibly all, of the materials listed below. You will want to consider what these pieces of the application communicate about you. Your personal statement should aim to tie everything together and fill in or address any gaps. There will likely be some overlap but be sure not to be too repetitive.

• Personal Statement(s)
• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendations
• Sample of written work
• Research proposal

Preparing to Write A large portion of your work towards completing a personal statement begins well before your first draft or even an outline. It is incredibly important to be sure you understand all of the rules and regulations around the statement. Things to consider before you begin writing:

• How many prompts? And what are they? It is important to know the basics so you can get your ideas in order. Some programs will require a general statement of interest and a focused supplementary or secondary statement closely aligned with the institution's goals.
• Are there formatting guidelines? Single or double spaced, margins, fonts, text sizes, etc. Our general guideline is to keep it simple.
• How do I submit my statement(s)? If uploading a document we highly suggest using a PDF as it will minimize the chances of accidental changes to formatting. Some programs may event ask you to copy and paste into a text box.
• When do I have to submit my statement(s)? Most are due at the time of application but some programs, especially medical schools, will ask for secondary statements a few months after you apply. In these instances be sure to complete them within two weeks, any longer is an indication that you aren't that interested in the institution.

Before you start writing, take some time to reflect on your experiences and motivations as they relate to the programs to which you are applying. This will offer you a chance to organize your thoughts which will make the writing process much easier. Below are a list of questions to help you get started:

• What individuals, experiences or events have shaped your interest in this particular field?
• What has influenced your decision to apply to graduate school?
• How does this field align with your interests, strengths, and values?
• What distinguishes you from other applicants?
• What would you bring to this program/profession?
• What has prepared you for graduate study in this field? Consider your classes at Wellesley, research and work experience, including internships, summer jobs and volunteer work.
• Why are you interested in this particular institution or degree program?
• How is this program distinct from others?
• What do you hope to gain?
• What is motivating you to seek an advanced degree now?
• Where do you see yourself headed and how will this degree program help you get there?

For those applying to Medical School, if you need a committee letter for your application and are using the Medical Professions Advisory Committee you have already done a lot of heavy lifting through the 2017-2018 Applicant Information Form . Even if you aren't using MPAC the applicant information form is a great place to start.

Another great place to start is through talking out your ideas. You have a number of options both on and off campus, such as: Career Education advisors and mentors ( you can set up an appointment here ), major advisor, family, friends. If you are applying to a graduate program it is especially important to talk with a faculty member in the field. Remember to take good notes so you can refer to them later.

When you begin writing keep in mind that your essay is one of many in the application pool. This is not to say you should exaggerate your experiences to “stand out” but that you should focus on clear, concise writing. Also keep in mind that the readers are considering you not just as a potential student but a future colleague. Be sure to show them examples and experiences which demonstrate you are ready to begin their program.

It is important to remember that your personal statement will take time and energy to complete, so plan accordingly. Every application and statement should be seen as different from one another, even if they are all the same type of program. Each institution may teach you the same material but their delivery or focus will be slightly different.

In addition, remember:

• Be yourself: You aren’t good at being someone else
• Tragedy is not a requirement, reflection and depth are
• Research the institution or organization
• Proofread, proofread, proofread
• How to have your personal statement reviewed

The prompts below are from actual applications to a several types of programs. As you will notice many of them are VERY general in nature. This is why it is so important to do your research and reflect on your motivations. Although the prompts are similar in nature the resulting statements would be very different depending on the discipline and type of program, as well as your particular background and reasons for wanting to pursue this graduate degree.

• This statement should illustrate your academic background and experiences and explain why you would excel in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (UMass Amherst - M.S. in Civil Engineering).
• Describe your academic and career objectives and how the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies can help you achieve them. Include other considerations that explain why you seek admissions to the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies and your interests in the environmental field (Yale - Master of Environmental Management).  
• Please discuss your academic interests and goals. Include your current professional and research interests, as well as your long-range professional objectives. Please be as specific as possible about how your objectives can be met at Clark and do not exceed 800 words (Clark University - M.A. in International Development and Social Change).
• Write a 500- to 700-word statement that describes your work or research. Discuss how you came to focus on the medium, body of work, or academic area you wish to pursue at the graduate level. Also discuss future directions or goals for your work, and describe how the Master of Fine Arts in Studio (Printmedia) is particularly suited to your professional goals (School of the Art Institute of Chicago - MFA in Studio, Printmaking).
• Your statement should explain why you want to study economics at the graduate level. The statement is particularly important if there is something unusual about your background and preparation that you would like us to know about you (University of Texas at Austin - Ph.D in Economics).
• Your personal goal statement is an important part of the review process for our faculty members as they consider your application. They want to know about your background, work experience, plans for graduate study and professional career, qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the program, and any other relevant information (Indiana University Bloomington - M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education).
• Your autobiographical essay/personal statement is a narrative that outlines significant experiences in your life, including childhood experiences, study and work, your strengths and aspirations in the field of architecture, and why you want to come to the University of Oregon (University of Oregon - Master of Architecture).
• Personal history and diversity statement, in which you describe how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. You may refer to any educational, familial, cultural, economic or social experiences, challenges, community service, outreach activities, residency and citizenship, first-generation college status, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how your life experiences contribute to the social, intellectual or cultural diversity within a campus community and your chosen field; or how you might serve educationally underrepresented and underserved segments of society with your graduate education (U.C. Davis - M.A. in Linguistics).
• A Personal Statement specifying your past experiences, reasons for applying, and your areas of interest. It should explain your intellectual and personal goals, why you are interested in pursuing an interdisciplinary degree rather than a more traditional disciplinary one, and how this degree fits into your intellectual and personal future (Rutgers University - Ph.D in Women’s and Gender Studies).
• Your application requires a written statement to uploaded into your application and is a critical component of your application for admission. This is your opportunity to tell us what excites you about the field of library and information science, and what problems you want to help solve in this field. Please also tell us how your prior experiences have prepared you for this next step toward your career goals and how this program will help you achieve them (University of North Carolina Chapel Hill - Master of Science in Library Science).
• After watching the video, please describe what strengths and preferences as a learner you have that will facilitate your success in this innovative curriculum. What challenges in our curriculum do you anticipate and what strategies might you use to address these challenges? (MGH Institute of Health Professions PT - They recently redesigned their curriculum)
• Your personal goal statement should briefly describe how you view the future of the field, what your goals are to be part of that future, and what brought you to pursue an advanced education degree in your chosen field. You may include any other information that you feel might be useful. (Northeastern PT)
• Personal Statement: In 500 words or less, describe a meaningful educational experience that affected your professional goals and growth and explain how it impacted you. The educational experience does not need to be related to this degree. Focus on the educational experience and not why you think you would be a good professional in this field. (Simmons PT)
• Personal Statement (500 word minimum): State your reasons for seeking admission to this program at this institution. Include your professional goals, why you want to pursue a career in this field and how admission to this program will assist you in accomplishing those goals. (Regis College Nursing)
• “Use the space provided to explain why you want to go to this type of program.” (AMCAS)
• Address the following three questions(Though there is no set limit, most statements are 1–2 pages, single-spaced.): What are your reasons for pursuing this degree? Why do you wish to pursue your degree at this institution? How do you intend to leverage your degree in a career of this field? (Boston University MPH)
• Please submit a personal statement/statement of purpose of no more than 500 words for the department/degree of choice. Professional degree essays require a clear understanding of the _______ field and how you hope to work within the field. Be sure to proofread your personal statement carefully for spelling and grammar. In your statement, be sure to address the following: what interests you in the field of _____ what interests you in a specific degree program and department at this institution and what interests you in a particular certificate (if applicable). Please also describe how you hope to use your ________ training to help you achieve your career goals. (Columbia PhD in Public Health - Epidemiology)
• Because each Home Program requires significant original research activities in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree, we are interested in obtaining as much information as possible about your previous research experiences. Those who already have such experience are in a better position to know whether they are truly interested in performing ______ research as part of a graduate program. Please include specific information about your research experience in your Statement of Purpose. You may also use the Statement to amplify your comments about your choice of Home Program(s), and how your past experiences and current interests are related to your choice. Personal Statements should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). Make sure to set your computer to Western European or other English-language setting. We cannot guarantee the ability to access your statement if it is submitted in other fonts. (Stanford Biosciences PhD)
• Your statement of purpose should describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the Department of ____ at ___ University. It would be helpful to include what you have done to prepare for this degree program. Please describe your research interests, past research experience, future career plans and other details of your background and interests that will allow us to evaluate your ability to thrive in our program. If you have interests that align with a specific faculty member, you may state this in your application. Your statement of purpose should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). (Stanford Bioengineering PhD)
• Statement of purpose (Up to one page or 1,000 words): Rather than a research proposal, you should provide a statement of purpose. Your statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for the course at this institution and your relevant experience and education. Please provide an indication of the area of your proposed research and supervisor(s) in your statement. This will be assessed for the coherence of the statement; evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study; the ability to present a reasoned case in English; and commitment to the subject. (Oxford Inorganic Chemistry - DPhil)

Related resources

Doctoral Program FAQs

Frequently asked questions about admission to the Economics Ph.D. program

General Program Questions:

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Do I need to have a Bachelor's degree in economics to apply to the program?

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S institution or a comparable degree from an international institution is one of the requirements to apply to the graduate program in Economics. You do not need to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics to apply to the program. Applicants have Bachelor’s Degrees in Mathematics, Statistics, and other disciplines. For specific information on what is considered a comparable degree from an international institution please refer to the  Graduate School Admission Requirements page .

Do you have a Master's Program?

Yes, we have two master’s programs affiliated with the Economics Department.  We have a Master of Science in Economics and a Master of Science in Financial Economics .

Can I apply to the Ph.D. and Master's programs on the same application?

Yes, the graduate school electronic application allows you to list up to three programs per application. To apply to the economics Ph.D. and our either of our master’s programs, please list the Economics Ph.D. program and the Economics MS -Graduate Foundations program and/or the MS-Financial Economics on your application.

You may upload the same materials for both the Ph.D. and the MS-Graduate Foundations supplemental applications. Please note you will need to meet the earlier application deadline (Ph.D.) and will be first considered for the Ph.D. program.

How long does it take to complete the Ph.D.?

The program is designed to be completed in five years. It is not uncommon, however, for students to complete the program in six years. To learn about the goals and structure of the Economics Graduate Program visit our  Program Overview  web page.

What kind of jobs do your students pursue upon graduation?

Our graduates pursue research careers at colleges or universities and work for government agencies or private firms after graduation. You can find more detailed information on our  placement web page .

What is the cultural makeup of your current student body?

There are students in the program from around the world. Our domestic students are from all areas in the US.

Who do I contact if I cannot find an answer to my question on the web page?

If you cannot find the answer to your question above, you can read the Graduate School frequently asked questions ( FAQs ) for more information. You can also contact us at  [email protected] .

Application Questions:

For questions regarding the graduate school application system, please see the Graduate School FAQs .

Can I make changes to my application after I hit the final submit button?

Yes, you can reenter the graduate school electronic application to make changes.

How do I check my application status?

After you submit your application, you will be sent a link to set up your  MyUW  account and net ID. The submission process is an overnight process, so expect your email within 24 hours. It is very important that you set up your  MyUW  account to check your application status.  If you do not receive this link, please contact the graduate school at  [email protected] . 

How many applications do you receive each year?

The Department receives more than 500 applications for the Ph.D. program each year.

How many admissions are going to be offered this year?

It is not possible for us to tell you how many recommendations of admission are going to be offered this year. We have an Admissions and Aid Committee that makes all admissions and funding decisions. In February, the committee will evaluate the applications. Once the applications have been reviewed, the committee will decide on the number of students recommended for admission. In the past, the committee has planned on an entering class of 25-30 students. To achieve this class size, the number of students admitted the past three years was 116, 109, and 105.

From all the components of my admission file, are there any elements that are more important than others? Is there anything I can do to help improve my chances?

All aspects of your application are reviewed by one or two faculty members. Academic preparation is important; the committee likes to see good grades in hard courses (especially math courses or advanced economics courses). Reference letters are very important; ideally they should be written by people who know you well, and who know what it takes to succeed in a good PhD program.

The Statement of Purpose (SOP) is one of the components of your application packet. Among other things, the SOP can highlight the aspect of your application which is strong and, if you feel it is important, you can explain the reason for any weakness in the application

When will I know if I have been admitted?

The Economics program’s Admission and Aid Committee will inform you of its decision in March.

Can I consult with faculty so I can get further input as to how I could strengthen my application?

Every year the Department receives more than 500 applications for the Ph.D. program. Admission and funding is competitive and it depends on a number of variables including all aspects of your application and the applicant pool. In February, the Admissions and Aid Committee will decide on the number of students recommended for admission. Given the volume of applications, it is not possible to respond to inquiries about the chances of admission, or to provide information about the strengths and weaknesses in individual applications.

Transcripts and Test Scores

Do i have to submit an official paper transcript with my application.

No, paper transcripts are not required to submit with your application. However, it is required that you upload electronic copies of your transcripts or academic record with your application.

If you are recommended for admission, the Graduate School will request an official electronic or paper transcripts.

What are the transcript requirements for applicants who have attended institutions in countries where English was not the primary language?

If you are recommended for admission, the Graduate School will send you the transcript requirements. You will need to submit the transcript in the original language as well as an official English translation. You school should provide an official translation of your documents; otherwise have a translation done by your school or an official translator. In some countries, these people are also notaries. Do not submit an evaluation from a credential evaluation service in lieu of a translation.

Can I send high school transcripts in addition to University transcripts?

No, please do not send or upload high school transcripts.

Can I submit GMAT scores in lieu of the GRE?

No. GMAT scores will not be accepted in place of GRE scores.

How do I submit my GRE scores to the Economics Department?

The UW-Madison institutional code is 1846. Our institution does not use department codes – you may leave that portion blank or pick any code. It is very important  you use the same name and spelling on the application as you used on the test form to avoid delays on the arrival of scores on your file. The format of the date of birth is very important too. Please use month/day/year to avoid delays.

GRE scores are accepted if they are within five years of the start of the admission term.

Can I send paper copies of my GRE or TOEFL scores rather than having ETS send the official scores directly to UW-Madison?

Students must have official scores sent by ETS before admission is finalized. You may upload unofficial PDF copies of your GRE or TOEFL results on your application portal, but only official scores sent by ETS will be evaluated for admission. The UW-Madison institutional code is 1846. Our institution does not use department codes – you may leave that portion blank or pick any code.

What do I need to prove my English proficiency?

Every applicant whose native language is not English, or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English, must provide an English proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo-starting Fall 2025 for our PhD program). Your score will not be accepted if it is more than two years old from the start of your admission term. Country of citizenship does not exempt applicants from this requirement. Language of instruction at the college of university level and how recent the language instruction was taken are the determining factors in meeting this requirement.

To see if you are exempt from the English proficiency requirement, please see the Graduate School’s requirements page .

What is the profile of the average admitted applicant?

The average Quantitative GRE score for applicants admitted to the program has been 92nd percentile on the exam. The average Writing Analysis score has been 4.49. The average GPA has been 3.84/4.0.

Writing Sample and Mathematics Preparation

Is there a page limit on the writing sample.

No, there is no page limit and the topic is not restricted to economics. However, the average submission runs from 2 to 7 pages.

Is the writing sample required?

Yes, a writing sample is part of the required application materials.

Can I apply if I have not met the math requirements?

Students entering the graduate program are required to have taken at least a three-course sequence in calculus, a course in linear algebra, and a course in mathematical statistics. You can apply  if you have not met all the math requirements.  However, all math prerequisites must be completed by the time you plan to start the program. The admissions committee will be able to evaluate your math ability more thoroughly if you have completed your math requirements at the time of application.  Please remember that  graduate work in economics demands mathematical sophistication of a higher order than the requirements of most U.S. undergraduate economics programs would suggest. The prerequisites above are a bare minimum, and additional background in mathematics and in graduate-level economics courses can ease the transition into the program.

How can I know whether my courses are equal to the required courses?

The  Math Requirements for Incoming Graduate Students  page lists some key topics and some useful references.

Funding and Financial Documentation

What is the deadline for admissions and for funding.

The application fee, math prep form, writing sample, statement of purpose, and transcripts must be received by  December 5 . We will start processing applications after the December 5th due date. Letters of recommendation must be submitted by December 31 .

How is funding awarded?

Funding is awarded to applicants on a competitive basis. Please see our  funding page  for additional information.

How do I apply for funding?

If your application is submitted and necessary materials received by December 5th, you will automatically be considered for funding. Please see our funding page  for more detailed information and the funding packets you would be automatically considered for if you apply on time.

There are other sources of funding such as loans through the Office of Student Financial Aid, as well as sources that are external to the university (e.g. grants, fellowships). However, the application process for those financial sources is not related to the process of admission to the Department of Economics. For more information, visit the Graduate Student Funding Resources page . Those pages will contain basic information detailing the funding resources available at UW-Madison, as well as contact information for initiating a search for other sources of funding.

I am an international student. Do I need to send financial documentation with my application?

No. If you are recommended for admission by the Economics Department and admitted by the Graduate School, you will asked to submit financial documentation once you initiate the immigration document request through our International Student Services (ISS) Office. Please review the ISS page on Becoming a Global Badger , which includes resources about the following:

• Step-by-step process of becoming a UW–Madison international student
• Estimated expenses
• Explanations of visa types, such as the difference between F-1 and J-1
• Resources to help international students transition to life at UW–Madison

Admitted Prospective Students

I received an admissions packet from the department indicating that i have been recommended for admission by the economics department. what does recommended for admission mean have i been admitted to uw-madison.

The admission to the graduate program in economics is a shared process at UW-Madison between the department and the Graduate School. When applicants receive an admission packet from the Economics Department indicating that they have been recommended for admission, this recommendation does NOT mean that they have been fully admitted. The applicant will have to finish the last steps of the admission process with the Graduate School. This includes sending the official transcripts requested by the Graduate School. The Economics Department sends admissions recommendations to the Graduate School with supporting materials. The Graduate School reviews the application and materials to ensure that the  Graduate School minimum requirements are met.

It is important for applicants to continue monitoring their admission progress. Each applicant can check their status in MyUW .

Do you have a Visit Day?

Yes, we invite all students who have been recommended for admission for a scheduled Visit Day in late March or early April. If you have been admitted and would like to arrange for a visit at a different time, please contact us at [email protected] .

I have been admitted to the Ph.D. program at UW. Can I defer my admissions for one year?

Term change (deferral) requests are reviewed on a case by case basis both by the department and the Graduate School. Please reach out to the department admissions contact if you have questions about deferring.

What is the reapplication process?

To reapply, you must follow the current process of admission. If you are required to submit a English proficiency scores, please be sure the score has not expired. Scores are accepted if they are within two years of the start of the admission term for which you are applying. GRE scores are accepted up to 5 years after the test date.