Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is the competitive GPA for applicants?

Our graduate program admits students from educational institutions around the world. Faculty familiar with those institutions evaluate the transcripts of prospective students, read their statements of purpose, and look at their writing samples. We admit students with an excellent overall profile, whose research and teaching interests can be supported by our faculty.

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What kind of GRE scores are you looking for?

We do not require applicants to take the GRE. If you do submit scores, note that we have no set threshold for GRE scores, but consider them within the context of the entire application.

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When should I take the GRE?

We do not require applicants to take the GRE. If you choose to submit scores, you should take the GRE before November 15th, in order to guarantee our receipt of your scores in time to consider your application.

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What TOEFL scores are you looking for?

Please see the Duke Graduate School.

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What kind of writing sample should I send?

The Department of Romance Studies requires a 10-15 page writing sample, either in English or in the primary language of study, that best represents the kind of research and scholarship you wish to pursue at Duke. Students interested in the Romance Studies track may wish to submit more than one paper, but the total pages should not exceed the 15-page limit. The writing sample should be uploaded to the Departmental Requirements section of the application.

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How selective is the process of being admitted?

Each year we matriculate five to six students into our doctoral program.

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What are the language requirements for the Ph.D.?

In order to be admitted, you must already have fluency or a high level of proficiency in your primary language of study, as our students enroll in graduate seminars taught in those languages in the first semester of study. Romance Studies track candidates should have nearly this level of fluency in a second language, and be committed to achieve similar fluency in their first year in the program. All other students are required to pass a Language Exam in a second language by the time they take their Portfolio Exam.

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Are there teaching assistant (TA) opportunities available?

Yes; please see Pedagogy Training and Funding.  

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