Application materials

  • Intellectual Statement of Interest – We place great weight on this statement. While your life experiences may be relevant here, we are primarily concerned with your scholarly career to this point and what studies you wish to further pursue in our graduate program. (Recommended length: 3-4 double-spaced pages.)
  • Writing Sample – We require a writing sample which demonstrates your ability to do critical work in your chosen area of interest within Africana studies. It should be no more than 20 pages long.
  • Letter of Recommendation – Recommendations (minimum of three) should come from your professors or others relevant to your academic career.
  • Transcripts and GPA 
  • Curriculum Vitae

Standardized Tests

International Students - TOEFL 
For international students who are not from English-speaking countries, a TOEFL score of 80 or better (on the internet-based test) is required by the Graduate School for admission to any graduate program.

All Students - GRE 
We do not require the GRE General Test or the GRE Subject Test for admission to our program.


Paying for Graduate School
For the most current costs and fees see the University bursar’s website.
Please note: A full TA includes a stipend and comes with tuition and fee waivers, health insurance and other benefits.


Application Deadline (December 15)
The deadline is December 15. 


Submit Your Applications
To apply for graduate ADMISSION, you must apply online to the UMass Graduate School. All accompanying materials that are not submitted digitally should be mailed directly to the Graduate School.

Graduate Admissions
530 Goodell Building
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003
@email
413.577.0010