How much is the application fee?
The application fee is a non-refundable $45.00.
Do you require a minimum score on the GRE or TOEFL?
We consider the entire application when evaluating prospective students, the scores are just one component. We do not set minimum scores for the GRE or the TOEFL, although the expectation is that our incoming students are proficient enough in English to handle graduate work (written and oral) and, by the second year, to complete any mentored teaching experiences.
What is Washington University's GRE and TOEFL testing code?
For the GRE, Washington University's institution code is 6929, and the department code for Comparative Literature is 2902. For the TOEFL, Washington University's institution code is also 6929, and you can use 99 for the department code. If you provide a different department code for either test, your scores will still normally make it to Comparative Literature, although they may be delayed.
How long should my writing sample be?
We look for an essay long enough to demonstrate your skills in analysis and in the organization of a complex argument. Ten pages are adequate. For students applying for the international writers track, a 20-30 page sample (of poems/ essays/ short stories) is ideal. For novelists, this could be an excerpt.
Does my writing sample have to be in English?
Yes.
Do you look for anything in particular in the statement of purpose?
Your statement of purpose is one of the crucial elements for us. We need to know whether our program suits the applicants’ interests. We don't need to know at this stage what you might like to work on for a doctoral dissertation, as those ideas inevitably change through doctoral coursework and exam preparation, but we do want to know what excites you intellectually and why you want to enter this field. It is an opportunity for you to explain your professional goals and your interests in Comparative Literature as they've grown out of your studies and experiences to date.
When should I hear an answer regarding my admission to the program?
The Committee on Comparative Literature will try to give an answer to each applicant by the beginning of March.
Does Washington University offer a Ph.D. program in translation studies?
Comparative Literature offers a certificate only in translation studies that is meant to be undertaken concurrently with a graduate program at Washington University. Ph.D. students in Comparative Literature and other departments may apply to the certificate program.
Does Washington University offer a terminal M.A. degree in Comparative Literature?
Yes. We do not, however, normally fund students who wish to earn an M.A. only. Most of the M.A. degrees awarded by the Comparative Literature Program are to students who continue on to the Ph.D. degree.
If I am interested in a joint degree program, do I apply to Comparative Literature?
On your application you will be able to find a degree program for all of the joint degrees, with the home department listed first and Comparative Literature listed second. When you go to "Select A Program," you will first choose "Graduate School of Arts and Sciences" as the Academic Division from the top drop-down menu, then under the department of Romance Language and Literatures, you will see Program Options for: Spanish and Comparative Literature, and French and Comparative Literature. Under the German Department, you will see the German and Comparative Literature program option. Under English, there is an English and Comparative Literature option. Finally, under the department of East Asian Languages and Literatures, program options include Japanese and Comparative Literature as well as Chinese and Comparative Literature. You should send your application materials to the home department. It will, however, be vetted by both the home department and Comparative Literature.
How many new graduate students do you admit each year?
The size of our incoming class changes from year to year, and is dependent on a number of factors.
Where should I send my official transcripts?
Washington University
Committee on Comparative Literature
One Brookings Drive
Campus Box 1107
St. Louis, MO 63130-4899
If using a delivery service such as FedEx or UPS, please use this address:
Washington University
Committee on Comparative Literature
One Brookings Drive
South Ridgley Hall, room 116
St. Louis, MO 63130-4899
For additional questions:
Director of Comparative Literature and Director of Graduate Studies
Professor Lynne Tatlock
Email: ltatlock@wustl.edu
Program Administrative Coordinator
Rebecca O'Laughlin
Phone: 314-935-5170
Fax: 314-935-5139
Email: complit@wustl.edu