Each applicant is judged individually on the basis of grades, test scores, recommendations, and the applicant's personal statement. The department cannot evaluate applications until all required materials, including GRE scores and recommendations, are received. A personal interview is not required, though applicants who have been offered admission are encouraged to visit the department, so that they can speak with faculty members and current students. Students enter the program in the autumn quarter in all but exceptional cases. Virtually all incoming Ph.D. students receive financial aid.
Fellowships generally provide twelve months of support for at least one year.
Departmental assistantships entail working 20 hours per week assisting faculty with research and teaching. As they progress through the program, some students also obtain support from the Mershon Center, the Political Research Laboratory, and Foreign Language and Area Studies fellowships. Most advanced students have an opportunity to teach their own courses. For students making normal progress, departmental funding typically continues for five years. Support may be extended beyond five years through awards and fellowships granted outside the university.