FAQs for Prospective Graduate Students

Q: Do I have to take the GREs?
A: The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required. Both general and advanced tests should be taken well in advance of the application deadline of January 1.

Q: Does the department require that students achieve a minimum score on the GRE general and/or subject test?
A: The department has no minimum GRE score requirement, nor do we have an official policy stipulating an acceptable range of GRE scores.

Q: Do I have to take the TOEFL exam if my native language is not English?
A: Yes. Brown University requires this exam.

Q: Is a writing sample required?
A: Yes.

Q: Is an interview required?
A: No, but it is strongly recommended that you have an on-site or telephone interview with the faculty who work in your area(s) of interest.

Q: Do you have a terminal MA degree?
A: No. Students receive an MA as part of their progress to the PhD.

Q: Does the Department encourage students to take courses outside the Department?
A: Yes—students often take seminars, and occasionally lecture courses in other departments and occasionally at other institutions such as Harvard.