Guide To Doctoral Study

Because the number of positions available in this program is limited, the competition for available openings is keen. Those not having majored in political science or not being acquainted with quantitative research methods, however, are not at a disadvantage.

The deadline for application and to be considered for assistantships/fellowships, is January 7 — all materials must be on file with the department.

GRE is optional - no longer required.

Other normal admissions requirements and materials include:

• Bachelor's degree at an accredited university.
• Transcripts from all previous universities (unofficial is fine.)
• Undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.3 on a four point scale (or its equivalent for foreign applicants). For applicants who have done graduate work elsewhere, we require a graduate grade point average of at least 3.5.
• Three letters of recommendation from persons who can comment upon the applicant's academic ability and motivation.
• Statement of Purpose (no more than 500 words). For more guidance, see FAQ.
• CV/resume
• Writing sample (strongly recommended)
• GRE scores are not required. If you wish for your GRE scores to be considered, you may include them. The University of Iowa's school code is 6681.

Students whose native language is not English must achieve a TOEFL iBT score of at least 100 or an IELTS score of 7 with no subscore lower than 6. English proficiency waiver eligibility can be found here. Non-native English speakers should also note the English proficiency requirements associated with serving as a Teaching Assistant, found here.

Application fee waiver information can be found on the website of the Graduate Admissions office. There are no fee waivers available for international students.

Because of the structure of our curriculum, new doctoral students must enter the program at the beginning of the fall term.