How to Apply to HDS
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline?
The application deadlines differ for each degree program. Check
back in September 2008 for more information about application
deadlines for the 2009-10 academic year.
What application materials are required?
It is essential that you review and follow the application instructions. The
following materials are required as part of your application:
- Application form and fee
- Résumé or curriculum vitae
- Official transcripts, including all transfer credits and study abroad
programs
- 3-5 letters of recommendation accompanied by a signed HDS Letter of
Recommendation form
- Two essays
- Abstract of courses (required for ThD candidates only)
- GRE scores (required for ThD candidates only; optional for master's
applicants)
- TOEFL scores (required for nonnative English speakers).
Is there a language requirement for admission?
There is no formal language requirement for admission at the master's
level. However, it is recommended that each applicant have at least an
elementary knowledge of a language that is (normally and preferably) relevant to
his or her area of focus—because intermediate-level reading proficiency
in a language is required prior to graduation.
For applicants to the ThD program, students are expected to demonstrate reading proficiency in at least two
modern languages of scholarship: one upon entry into the program, and the second
within one year of entry.
When and how will I find out whether I've been admitted to HDS?
Admissions decisions for each academic year are available in mid-March.
Can I apply as a part-time student?
All applicants apply and are admitted as full-time students. However,
if a change in circumstances prohibits full-time enrollment before entering the
program, a student may submit a petition to the admissions committee for
part-time status.
What is your deferment policy?
We expect applicants to apply for the academic year in which they intend to enroll.
However, we realize that circumstances may change, and we grant deferments on a case-by-case
basis. For example, in the past we have granted deferments for family
emergencies or for unique academic or professional opportunities which arise
after the application process is complete. For
additional information, please contact the admissions office at admissions@hds.harvard.edu
or 617.495.5796.
Can I apply for spring admission?
No. HDS has a single annual application cycle for fall enrollment.
Do you offer any dual degree programs?
MTS and MDiv students may choose to apply to another graduate school at
Harvard University within their first year. Once accepted to the second
degree program, students may formally apply for dual degree status and then determine the
number of courses that can be applied toward both degrees. Interested
students should discuss their plans with the
registrar.
Does HDS require interviews during the admissions process?
We do not require interviews. If you are able to do so, we recommend that
you visit HDS for an information session with one of our admissions officers, a
tour of the School, and the opportunity to attend classes that are open to
visitors.
What is the minimum GPA HDS requires to be considered as an applicant?
We do not have a GPA (grade point average) minimum. We review each application individually. The different parts of the application, such as
transcripts and letters of recommendation, are intended to allow you to demonstrate that you are able to
engage in graduate-level theological study at Harvard Divinity School. If you
are concerned about your GPA, you might consider ways that you might strengthen
other parts of your application, such as submitting an additional letter of
recommendation or submitting an optional writing sample. Please see the
application instructions for further information.
Are GRE scores required? What is the GRE minimum?
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores are required for applicants to the ThD
program, but are optional for applicants to the master's programs. We do not
have a minimum GRE score. We review each application individually, and consider
the GRE score in the context of the application as a whole.
Can I transfer credits from another university?
Harvard Divinity School offers advanced standing for students in the MDiv
program only. Courses must be at the graduate level, relevant to the HDS degree
program, and from a school accredited by a national or regional institutional
accrediting association. For more information about advanced standing,
please contact the
Registrar's Office.
Is there a way to take courses online?
Online courses are not offered at HDS.
Harvard
Extension School is an excellent resource for online learning. Please
note, however, that coursework completed at the Extension School will not lead to a degree
at HDS.
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