Program Overview

PhD Admission Requirements

Overview

The PhD program in Political Science is designed for excellent students who have completed an MA degree in political science (or the equivalent) by the time of enrolment or have completed the equivalent of a four-year BA with a concentration in political science by the time of enrolment.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the PhD program is offered only to excellent students who have either completed an MA degree in political science (or the equivalent) by the time of enrolment or have completed the equivalent of a four-year BA with a concentration in political science by the time of enrolment. Only exceptional students will be admitted directly to the PhD program from the BA. Applicants from both levels are expected to have achieved grades averaging A- or better in their most recent degree.

Proof of Language Proficiency

International students whose first language is not English must submit an English language test score. The test must be written and the score sent to the Department before a final decision will be made on an application. The most commonly submitted score is the TOEFL. Acceptable TOEFL scores are as follows:

• the traditional paper-based format (minimum score of 580 and TWE 5.0)
• computer-based test (minimum score of 237 and TWE 5.0)
• the newer internet-based test (minimum overall score of 93 with a writing score of at least 22 and a speaking score of at least 22) The Test of Written English (TWE) is required (not optional). Besides TOEFL, there are other language proficiency exams that will be accepted as proof of language proficiency. Test scores more than two years old cannot be used.

Application Review Process

The Graduate Director reviews all applications by mid-January. Each eligible applicant is read, ranked and commented on by at least two faculty. Area group members are invited to review these details and determine the top picks to short list for the admissions committee meeting. The admissions committee determines offers, waitlists and refusals of top-ranked applicants. Initial offers and refusals are sent out by mid-February and admitted applicants are asked to reply within a two-week period. Further offers may be made depending on uptake.