Applying

Application Timeline

The  for fall 2025 admission into the PhD program in philosophy closes January 15, 2025. Initial decisions are announced by April 15, 2025.

Application Materials Checklist

Applications must include:

  • A writing sample. This can include your work from undergraduate courses in philosophy.
  • Transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are accepted, but official transcripts will be required upon admittance to the university.
  • Three confidential letters of recommendation.
  • A personal statement addressing the following questions:
    • Why do you want to pursue graduate study in philosophy?
    • Why do you want to pursue that study at the 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳?
    • What areas of philosophy are you most interested in?
  • A list of completed philosophy courses (use this form)
  • English language proficiency exam scores (for non-native English applicants)

English Proficiency Requirements

The English proficiency test requirement is waived for citizens of countries with English as their native language. These include Australia, Canada, Commonwealth Caribbean nations, Ghana, Ireland, Kenya, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Singapore, South Africa, Uganda, United Kingdom, Virgin Islands.

The requirement may also be waived if an applicant has completed at least three years of full-time and in-person postsecondary study in the United States or any other country with English as its native language. If you have this academic background and would like a waiver please email graduate.admissions@rochester.edu.

Applicants from all other countries must demonstrate their English language proficiency by completing one of the following exams and acheive a minimum score:

  • Duolingo English Test – 120
  • TOEFL or TOEFL iBT Home Edition – 100
  • IELTS – 7.5

Scores from more than two years ago are not valid. Students choosing to submit TOEFL scores may submit results from the TOEFL iBT or Paper-Delivered Test administered at proctored test locations. TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition Test or the TOEFL ITP Assessment may also be accepted. TOEFL scores can be submitted using the code 2928.

To send in IELTS scores please use the following address:
91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳
Graduate Studies-AS&E
500 Joseph C. Wilson Blvd
P.O. Box 270401
91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳ NY 14627

Duolingo scores can be sent directly to the 91×ÔÅÄÂÛ̳ at no cost.

The admissions committee will conduct Skype interviews with non-native English applicants prior to offers of admission, at its discretion. The Department of Philosophy reserves the right to require further demonstration of English proficiency regardless of an applicants’ background or status.

Application Fee

There is a $70 non-refundable application fee due after submitting an application. A limited number of fee waivers are available for applicants with financial need. If you find the fee difficult to afford, you may request a waiver by explaining your financial situation in an email to phladmin@philosophy.rochester.edu. 

Contact

If you have additional questions, contact us at phladmin@philosophy.rochester.edu.