Frequently Asked Questions

How can I apply to the program?
All application materials and instructions are available on the GSAS website. Applications to the Ph.D. program in the Anthropology Department should be submitted online to the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences; do not send any materials to the Anthropology Department.

A complete application consists of these items:
1. Admissions Form
2. Personal Statement
3. Official Transcripts
4. GRE General Test scores (GSAS Code for ETS: 3451)
5. Writing sample that should not exceed 20 pages; do not send a longer sample with instructions to read a particular section.
6. Three letters of recommendation
7. TOEFL scores
8. Statement of financial resources

When is the deadline for applying?
The deadline to apply for Fall 2013 has past. (January 2, 2013)

For how long are my GRE scores valid?
Required by the Graduate School, GRE scores must be no more than 5 years old at the time of application (if you are on the cusp of this criteria, we suggest retaking the GRE). The LSAT or MCAT cannot be accepted in place of the GRE. Official scores must be reported to the Graduate School.

Is TOEFL required?
Yes, the TOEFL is also required by the Graduate School if you did not receive a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction. A master’s degree form such an institution is not acceptable. IELTS scores cannot be accepted in place of the TOEFL. Scores are valid for 2 years.

What is the GSAS Code for ETS?
The Harvard GSAS Code for ETS is: 3451

I am applying for the Media Anthropology program, where can I send the copies of my portfolio?
Please send two (2) copies of your portfolio on CD (or, preferably, DVD) along with a cover letter with your name and the program you are applying to (Social Anthropology 0443) to the following address:
The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Harvard University
Office of Admissions
P.O. Box 9129
Cambridge, MA 02238-9129

If materials are sent via courier or express mail service, they should be addressed to:
The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Harvard University
Office of Admissions
Holyoke Center, 3rd Floor
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138

Can I get in touch with faculty regarding their research interests?
Potential applicants who have substantive questions about the research interests of faculty members and/or their own preparation and background for graduate study at Harvard may write directly to faculty members with whom they believe they share interests.

Please be aware, however, that because of the high volume of inquiries about the program and the large number of applicants, it may not always be possible for faculty to fully answer all inquiries.

If you are writing to an individual faculty member, she or he will be much better able to offer comments if you include specific information about your own academic background, interests in particular theoretical, topical or cultural areas, prior research experience, language training, experiences living in the culture(s) in which you plan to specialize, and so forth.

Questions about specific fields or areas of study should go to individual faculty members after a potential applicant has studied faculty teaching and research specialties on the website.

Can retired faculty advise new students?
Retired faculty (emeritus and emerita professors) do not normally teach courses nor are they involved in training new graduate students. Students should not apply with the intention of studying with retired faculty.

Do you require an interview during the admissions process?
Potential applicants may visit Harvard prior to submitting an application, but it is not necessary. We do not interview candidates as part of the formal admissions process. Applicants considering a visit to campus should make arrangements well in advance. Staff, students, and faculty are extremely busy during the semester and are unlikely to be able to schedule appointments with little advance notice.

Potential applicants who are seriously interested in enrolling in the graduate program should plan a visit to the department before making a final decision.

Who should I contact to schedule a visit to the department?
Individual faculty members handle their own calendars and appointments, so a visitor should contact faculty members directly to arrange appointments.

Contacts

	Director of Graduate Studies Mary Steedly William James Hall 440 (617) 495-3730 msteed [at] wjh.harvard.edu website
	Graduate Program Administrator Marianne Fritz Department of Anthropology Harvard University William James Hall 360 33 Kirkland Street Cambridge MA 02138 (617) 495-5564 mfritz [at] fas.harvard.edu