Graduate Admissions

To apply, please use the link to access our online application system. You should begin by creating an account. Once created, you will be promoted to choose an application, select your term year and program. Please read the directions on your College of Arts and Sciences application carefully.

Supporting materials must be submitted electronically, using the upload section near the bottom of the application. Acceptable formats include PDF, MS Word .doc or .docx, Text, HTML, jpeg or other standard image file

The deadline for applications to the PhD program is December 13th.

Since we will begin processing applications immediately, meeting the deadline is especially important if you wish to be considered for the enhanced fellowships offered through the Graduate School and the College of Arts and Sciences.

The priority deadline for applications to the MA program is February 15th.  We will continue to review applications after that date on a space-available basis. Students wishing to be considered for the Arthur A. Schomburg Fellowship should apply no later than December 15th. 

All applications must include the following:

• Completed application form.
• Electronic copies of transcripts of all previous undergraduate or graduate coursework. Only admitted applicants will be required to submit official transcripts.
• Provide the contact information for three (3) confidential letters of recommendation from persons familiar with your academic work. Each reviewer will each receive an email invitation to the online recommendation portal where letters can be uploaded, and a brief form completed. Please ensure to fill in all contact information fields for your reviewers.
• A personal statement of two to three double-spaced typed pages, submitted electronically.
• A substantial sample (15-25 pages) of critical writing on a literary topic. Creative writing is welcome in addition but since our degree is given for critical thinking and scholarly research, we must see what a student can do in those areas, submitted electronically.

Please consider our advice for graduate applicants on how to submit the strongest application you can.

International applicants must also include:

1. International Applicant Financial Statement
2. Results of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) for international applicants whose native language is not English (institution code 2925, department code 14)

For more information, visit our admissions page for international applicants.

The application fee of $75 payable to the University at Buffalo. Payments may be made online in your Slate application portal.

Please visit our admissions web page for non-matriculating students for information about this application process.