You say you cannot answer individual inquiries, but I have low grades and I want to know if someone can tell me if I should apply or not. I want to know what my chances are that I will be accepted to the program.
If you have low grades/GPA or GRE, we cannot predict whether or not you will be admitted to the program. However, we can tell you that your file will be carefully considered. The Admissions Committee will read all the files. The Admissions Committee considers all the different components of your file, not just scores or grades. Please note we cannot review transcripts prior to the admissions process. We encourage you to apply and to submit a strong application.
How do I know your program is the right one for me?
We strongly encourage you to visit our Faculty Profile Pages. Click on the names of our faculty members to learn about their interests and to find out what they have published. If you find someone whose work is of interest to you, you should apply to UCSD. Tell us in your Statement of Purpose why the work of our professors is important to your own work. Let our faculty know you are serious about working with them. Serious applicants read our faculty's publications carefully.
Do I need a BA in Literature or MA to apply to the PhD program?
You do not need a BA in Literature, but most of our students have a strong background in Literature, Theory, and/or Cultural Studies. It would be to your advantage to take classes in Literature before you apply. You may apply to the PhD program without having an MA degree.
How much does it cost to apply?
The non-refundable application fee schedule is as follows: $80.00 for US Citizens and Permanent Resident Applicants, $100.00 for International Applicants. The application fee is the last step of the online application process. Applicants pay the application fee under the section titled "Begin Submit Process." You must pay by using a major credit card: MasterCard, VISA, American Express, Discover, or JCB Card.
Should I apply online or should I fill out a paper application? Is it ok to fill out the online application, print it, and mail it without submitting electronically?
All applicants must use the online application called GradApply. We cannot consider applications which have been printed out but not submitted electronically.
Is the subject GRE required? How much weight do you give to the GRE scores?
We do not require the subject GRE. The admissions committee will look at all the documents we require. Your entire file is considered, not just a particular requirement.
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