The USF Graduate School has set a 3.00 minimum GPA on a 4.00 scale. The average GPA of the PhD students admitted into our program in the last two years is 3.75. The average GPA of the MA students who have been accepted into our program in the last two years is 3.53.

GRE Scores
* The GRE requirement will be waived for Spring 2022 and Fall 2022 - view the departmental statement here.

All applicants must arrange for a full set of GRE scores to be sent to USF by Educational Testing Service (ETS). USF's institutional code is 5828. GRE test scores must have been earned within five (5) years per university requirement.

Applicants should score at least a 153 Verbal Score (61st percentile). If you do not meet this minimum, you must showcase strong evidence of writing skills in your other materials.

TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE-A Scores
(For international applicants only.)
Applicants from countries recognized as non-English speaking must submit TOEFL scores taken within 2 years of the desired term of entry.
View additional information on these test scores.

TOEFL score minimum:
- 79 (internet-based test)
- 213 (computer-based test)
- 550 (written test)

Please note: If you completed your degree at a U.S. college or university, scores are not required for applicants unless you are seeking a teaching assistantship. If your scores do not meet requirements, please visit the USF INTO program.

Transcript(s)
Officially-sealed transcripts from all previous higher education institutions (undergraduate and graduate). Unofficial transcripts can be used until you are accepted, after acceptance official transcripts are required. Visit the Graduate Admissions Site for further information and requirements for domestic transcripts and foreign transcripts.

Letters of Recommendation
MA applicants must submit two (2) letters.
Ph.D. applicants must submit three (3) letters.

These letters should speak to your ability to succeed in graduate school. Character references and employment-focused letters are acceptable, but may not be as helpful as letters focused on your academic/scholarly talents. Please use My Recommendation Request(s) on the online application to submit letters of recommendation.

Curriculum Vitae (CV) or an Academic Resume
You can upload your CV or resume through the application portal.

Statement of Purpose
Submit a short statement discussing your reasons for applying and goals for graduate school. Your statement should be approximately 2 to 4 pages, double-spaced.
Writing Sample
This writing sample should demonstrate your potential to write critically and well. Typical writing samples have included a communication course paper, a chapter from an Honors or M.A. thesis, a convention paper, or a journal article submitted or published. Please enclose only one writing sample.
A statement of purpose IELTS - 6.5. TOEFL iBT – 79, TOEFL CBT - 213, TOEFL PBT – 550.