Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum GPA you will accept?

The minimum GPA the University will allow is a 3.0 (on a 4-point scale) calculated from your junior and senior years. In some cases, we have requested that the Graduate Division grant an exception to some whose GPA is below 3.0 but have a strong application in other regards (i.e. GRE scores, Letters of Recommendation, resume, etc.). The average GPA for admitted students is 3.5.

What is the minimum GRE score you will accept?

We have no minimum score. On average, admitted students have a combined score of 1300 to 1400 on the verbal and quantitative sections and an average score of 4.5 to 5 on the analytical writing section. GRE scores are valid for five years after the test date.

Do I need to take a GRE subject test?

No. We only require the general exam.

What is your GRE institution?

Institution code: 4835

What is a TOEFL?

The TOEFL is the Test of English as Foreign Language; this is required of all international applicants who are from a non-English speaking country and/or did not receive an undergraduate degree an English-instructed University. The University requires a minimum score of 550 (paper test) or 213 (computer test.)

How long should the Statement of Purpose (SOP) be?

The SOP should be at least 1 page to 1.5 pages, but no more than 2 pages per section. The longer it is, the less likely it will be read all the way through by the admissions committee. Your SOP should be focused and explain what your goals are and how the Anthropology Department will help you achieve your goals. In addition, please explain if you had an experience (internship, study abroad, etc.) that led to your desire for a career in Anthropology.

Do all 3 Letters of Recommendation (LOR) need to be from faculty members?

We would like to see at least 2 of your LORs from a faculty member, but we realize that applicants who have been out of school for a number of years will have difficulty obtaining this. The remaining LORs should be from people (i.e. former/current employer, volunteer supervisor, etc.) who can comment on your work ethic, ability, dedication, charisma, etc.

What are the prerequisites for the Ph.D. program?

Any prerequisite coursework is faculty-specific, so you should directly contact the faculty member you wish to work with for their entrance requirements. A Master’s degree is not required for admittance to the Ph.D. program.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is December 1. This is a strict deadline for admission as well as financial support consideration. All application materials must be postmarked by December 1.

Is there any financial aid for graduate students?

Fellowships and fellowships and teaching assistantships are awarded based on merit. The department is usually able to provide a small number of fellowships, including tuition fellowships, to highly qualified applicants.

Other sources include Mellon Fellowships which provide a first-year stipend of $17,500 and tuition.

What is a FAFSA?

The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid; this is the application for federal student loans. Most of our students finance their education with student loans, and students who would like to be considered for University and School grant money must fill one of these out (even if you do not wish to take out loans), so we can determine "need". If you do not have the Student Aid Report (SAR--a form sent to you before you receive your loan), we are unable to determine your need and you will not be eligible for other sources of financial support. The FAFSA is due on March 2 for loans to be used during the following academic year.

Can I get a Teaching Assistantship?

The Anthropology Department does offer TAships to both continuing and new students. Because the department has to award TAships to its continuing students, those available for new students are limited and the TAships are awarded on the competitive basis through faculty recommendations. Students in the department, who did not receive a TAship are encouraged to seek out employment in other departments. Our students have found TA positions in the following departments: Law and Society; Black Studies; Film Studies; Global Studies; Women’s Studies and Environmental Studies. Please contact these departments directly for information.

Can I get a Graduate Student Researcher position?

If you are interested in being a GSR, please directly contact the faculty member doing research in an area that you are interested in and/or have experience in to see if they will be hiring any GSRs for the coming academic year.

If I am admitted, may I defer my admittance for one year?

No. The University does not allow admitted applicants to defer admission. If you are unable to attend during the quarter for which you have been admitted, we will keep your application materials (LOR, SOP, transcripts, etc.) but you must reapply for the following year. Your application will be re-reviewed by the admissions committee, but the same admissions decision is not guaranteed.

Do I need an undergraduate degree in Anthropology to apply to the UCSB Anthropology program?
No, you do not need to have an undergraduate degree in Anthropology. Applicants whose previous undergraduate work is in another field may apply and be admitted. You should be clear in your statement of purpose as to why you want to begin graduate studies in Anthropology and be explicit as to how anthropology is reflected in your interests. Please contact the faculty member(s) you wish to work with in order to discuss your interest in the program.

 

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Last updated: June 13th, 2003