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Graduate Admissions

How are applications reviewed?

Transcripts are evaluated considering the institution, courses taken and at what level, and Grade Point Average. Graduate Record Exam scores (Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical), letters of recommendation, personal statement, and statement of purpose are all considered. Harvard faculty place considerable emphasis on research training. Students who are admitted have often been involved in independent research, either academically or professionally.

How do I send my test scores (TOEFL, GRE) to the department?

Applicants need to make arrangements with ETS to send their scores to Harvard University using the University code 3451. Harvard Griffin GSAS Admissions downloads the scores on a weekly basis. Departments and Programs access the scores electronically for the applicant file. No Department code is necessary, as the scores are sent directly to Harvard Griffin GSAS Admissions, not the department.

Please note that Harvard Griffin GSAS does not accept scores from the TOEFL ITP Plus examination. This is because the TOEFL ITP Plus does not provide a robust...

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How selective is the admissions process?

Admission to the doctoral program in Sociology is very competitive. We typically receive approximately 250-300 applications, and admit cohorts of 7 to 8 students.

I am an International applicant who speaks and reads English. Do I need to take the TOEFL?

If you have a four-year degree from an English-speaking institution, you may not have to take the TOEFL. Harvard Griffin GSAS requires that incoming PhD students who are non-native English speakers and who received their undergraduate degree from a non-English speaking institution meet a minimum level of oral English language proficiency. For all queries regarding the TOEFL requirement, contact Harvard Griffin GSAS Admissions at admiss@fas....

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If I am not accepted, can I reapply?

Yes. All repeat applicants must re-submit the online application and supplemental materials. Please note that each submitted application counts toward the lifetime maximum of three applications per person to graduate programs in the Harvard Kenneth E. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.