Applying to the Graduate Program : German and Scandinavian Studies : UMass Amherst

The priority deadline for applications is December 15; however, we continue to accept and review applications until all positions are filled.

The application requirements are:

Official Transcripts documenting all post-secondary (college/university level) degrees and/or coursework.
NOTE: Applicants to the MA and PhD programs must have earned a bachelor’s or equivalent degree at a minimum by the time they enter the program. Students may also apply to the PhD program with a master’s degree (or equivalent); see the requirements for the PhD for more information on differing courses of study for those entering with a BA vs. MA degree.
A Statement of Purpose (approx. 2–3 pages) outlining your qualifications (including your language proficiency level), academic interests, and goals. Your statement should also address why you want to join the program and work with faculty in German Studies at UMass Amherst specifically.
An Academic Writing Sample of not less than 10 pages (in either German or English). The admissions committee reviews writing samples for strength of style, argumentation, and research and/or analysis.
Three Recommendations from individuals who can address your qualifications, preparedness, and potential for success in graduate studies. Applicants are encouraged to request recommendations from college/university faculty who have direct experience with and knowledge of their academic abilities.

MA and PhD students must be proficient in oral and written English and German in order to successfully teach German language courses at the beginning and intermediate level and complete the German Studies coursework required for the degree. If you have questions about the proficiency requirements, please contact the Graduate Program Director.
Applicants may also be invited to conduct a phone or Zoom interview.
Applicants are not required to submit GRE scores.
Note for non-native speakers of English: the Program in German and Scandinavian Studies can offer provisional admission of non-native speakers of English without TOEFL scores; however, for final admission, the UMass Graduate School requires submission of TOEFL scores. Non-native speakers of English who hold a degree from an English-language college or university or have attended one for at least two years do not need to submit TOEFL scores. For more information about TOEFL requirements and waiver conditions, see the Graduate School information page for International Applications.
Application fees are set by the UMass Graduate School. For information on application fee waivers see their How to Apply page.

For questions about graduate programs in German Studies, please contact the Graduate Program Director: Mariana Ivanova (@email)

For questions about the graduate application system, please contact the Graduate Student Service Center: @email | (413) 545-0722