At Boston University, we offer top-notch doctoral and terminal MA programs in both French Language & Literature and Hispanic Language & Literatures, taught by a distinguished faculty. Our programs provide rigorous training in the literature, culture, and film of the Francophone and Hispanophone worlds.
How to Apply
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for entry in September 2021 is
January 15, 2021.
The department accepts applications for September admission only.
Where to Apply
All applications to Romance Studies graduate programs are submitted through the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences (GRS). You can:
- Apply Now through the online application.
- Explore GRS information on applying to a PhD program.
- Peruse GRS information on applying to a terminal MA program.
General Application Requirements
All applicants must submit:
- Transcripts
- Three academic recommendations
- Official GRE General Test score report
- Personal statement/statement of purpose
- Official TOEFL score report (International students only)
Program-Specific Application Requirements
MA or PhD in French Language & Literature
- A writing sample in French of about 10-15 pages, such as an academic paper or thesis excerpt
- A summary page describing all courses taken in French literature or related fields and the grades earned
- A curriculum vitae (optional, but we do prefer that you submit one)
MA or PhD in Hispanic Language & Literatures
- A writing sample/academic paper written in Spanish (not more than 15 pages)
- A summary page of grades and descriptions of all courses taken in the field of Hispanic literature
- A curriculum vitae
International Students
We are always happy to receive applications from international students! About half of our graduate students here in Romance Studies are international. You’ll find that Boston is a diverse city that is very welcoming to international students.
The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences website provides detailed information on how to apply as an international student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I apply to the doctoral program or to the master's degree program?
We offer a terminal MA program and a doctoral program in both French Language & Literature and Hispanic Language & Literatures.
- If you plan to earn a PhD, apply to the doctoral program, even if you do not yet have an MA degree. The doctoral program includes the option to earn an MA degree en route to the PhD.
- If you plan to earn only an MA degree and not a doctorate, apply to the terminal MA program.
Students in the terminal MA program are not eligible for most forms of financial support, so if you plan to earn a PhD, it is best to apply to the doctoral program. You can apply to the doctoral program directly after completing your bachelor’s degree.
What is the ETS Institution Code for Boston University?
The ETS code for Boston University is 3087. No department code is needed.
Do I need to submit TOEFL scores?
Almost all international students need to submit an official score report for the TOEFL. There are a few exceptions.
Please note that citizens of Puerto Rico are U.S. citizens and do NOT need to submit TOEFL scores.
Do I need to submit GRE scores?
Yes. ALL applicants, domestic and international, are required to submit an official score report from the GRE general exam. International students who are required to submit TOEFL scores need to submit GRE scores in addition to their TOEFL scores.
Can I send application materials directly to the Romance Studies Department?
All application materials must be submitted to the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences via the online application.
How is my application evaluated?
Important factors in the department’s ranking of applicants include:
- The breadth and quality of the undergraduate experience
- The quality of the personal statement and writing sample
- The strength of the letters of recommendation
- The evidence of language skills suitable to graduate study
- The suitability of the department’s programs to the particular applicant
The department evaluates the GRE and TOEFL scores of international applicants on a case by case basis.
It is expected that applicants for graduate study will hold a BA degree or its equivalent in a field related to the program they apply to. The department continues to look favorably on applications from candidates who have completed or will soon complete a relevant MA degree. However, candidates with only a BA degree are welcome to apply directly for admission to the doctoral programs.
Questions?
- Technical questions about completing the application are best directed to the GRS Admissions Office.
- For Academic and program related questions, you are welcome to contact the Romance Studies Director of Graduate Studies, Prof. Dorothy Kelly.