What qualifications do you consider?

The main criteria we use are research experience, undergraduate GPA, general GRE scores (highly recommended), subject GRE scores (strongly recommended), letters of recommendation, and the personal statement. The personal statement is used to determine writing skills and how well a student’s research interests and goals fit with our programs (e.g., if faculty are conducting research in areas that interest the student). If students include a writing sample and/or vita, these materials will also be considered by the admissions committee.