Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Admissions Process

1. Do I have to apply to both the Graduate College and the Department of English?

YES.  Go to www.wmich.edu/grad in order to apply to the Graduate College.  You should complete their online application process by January 1, 2008.  You also need to download the Department of English’s application form at www.wmich.edu/english/grad.html.  Note that there is a separate application for each of our fields – be sure to select the one that pertains to your area of interest.  Once you have filled out the appropriate application and attached all supporting documents, send these materials to Dr. Gwen Tarbox, Department of English, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5331.  Again, the deadline is January 1, 2008.

2. Do I need to take the GRE?  How do I find out about taking the GRE General Test and the Subject Test in Literature?

Applicants to our PhD programs must submit BOTH the GRE General Test scores and Subject Test in Literature scores.  Applicants to our master’s degree programs (MA, MFA, MAET) need only submit their GRE General Test scores. 

All scores must come from tests taken within the last five years.  THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS POLICY.  The GRE General Test can be taken year-round at a variety of locations nationwide.  However, the Subject Test in Literature is offered only three times per year—in November, December and April—in selected locations.  Doctoral candidates should plan to take the GRE Subject Test in Literature in either November or December so that the scores can be sent to us in a timely fashion.  For more information about test preparation, testing centers, and test dates, please go to www.gre.org.

3. How important is my GPA and/or my GRE score?

When evaluating applications, the review committee gives primary consideration to your letters of recommendation, your statement of purpose, and your writing samples.  Quantitative measures such as grades and GRE scores are also important, but they are evaluated in the context of your entire application packet.

4. When will I hear about admission decisions?  When do I have to let the Department know if I plan to attend WMU?

The review committee meets to evaluate applications in January.  We anticipate contacting applicants in mid to late February and early March.  The official deadline for applicants to respond to our offer of admission is April 15.  We do ask, however, that applicants endeavor to let us know within two weeks of receiving an offer, if possible.

5.  Will the materials I submit for consideration be returned to me?

 NO.  None of the materials submitted to WMU, including letters of recommendation and transcripts, will be returned to applicants.

6. Can I contact your current graduate students to learn more about the program?

YES!  Please contact the graduate director at english-graduate@wmich.edu.  She can put you in touch with a current student who is working in your particular field of study.