Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get an application or information?

We no longer send out paper applications or catalogs in the mail. For the Grad School application, go to https://www.gradsch.wisc.edu/eapp/eapp.pl

For information on the philosophy application process, consult this website and then if you have questions, email Patty Winspur, Graduate Secretary, pwinspur@wisc.edu or call Patty at (608) 263-5278.

What are my chances of getting in?

We receive roughly 200 applications each year, and accept approximately 20 students, depending on the available space and, of course, budget constraints. In deciding who will be admitted to the program, the Admissions Committee considers the overall picture including GPA (especially in philosophy courses), writing sample, and letters of recommendation.

To have a good chance of acceptance, you must meet both U.W. Grad School and Philosophy Department requirements for admission.

The department requirements are listed here: http://philosophy.wisc.edu/graduate/requirements.html

The Grad School requirements are here: https://www.gradsch.wisc.edu/eapp/eapp.pl

Can I get in if I don't have a B.A. in philosophy?

In very rare instances, we accept someone who does not have a B.A. in philosophy, but this is extremely unusual. In those cases, although they lack a philosophy B.A., they have an extensive philosophy background and/or some philosophy work completed on the graduate level.

Do I need to take the GRE? What GRE scores do I need to be admitted?

If you wish to be considered for a fellowship, you must take the GRE. For other applicants, it is strongly recommended but not required.

Many prospective students ask us about the minimum GRE scores that are realistic for acceptance to our PhD program. We don't have a set minimum, but here are some average GRE scores for applicants who have been accepted during recent years: GRE Verbal of 635, GRE Quantitative of 690, Analytic Writing score of 5. Please note these are average scores, not minimum. The range of scores that we have accepted are: verbal 530-800, Quantitative 550-800, and Writing 3.5-6. Also remember that GRE scores are just one factor in the overall admission decision.

What is the deadline for my application?

January 5th (RECEIVED by January 5th)

To the Graduate School:
application (on-line)
application fee
GRE scores (strongly recommended) (electronically--no paper necessary, institution code: 1846)

To the Philosophy Department
Send to Admissions/Philosophy
600 North Park Street
5185 Helen C. White Hall
Madison, WI 53706

Statement of Purpose (also called "Reasons for Study")
1 official transcript
writing sample
3 recommendations by professors of philosophy
department application - 2 page list of questions concerning the philosophy courses you took as an undergraduate

All the application materials listed above should reach both the Graduate School and the department by the January 5th deadline. It is your responsibility to check if your file is complete. Because of our high volume of applications, we don't always have time to notify you when your file is complete. If you are in doubt, please call or e-mail Patty Winspur at least 1 week before the deadline to check if your file is complete.

Is there a form I should use for the recommendations written for me by professors?

Yes, your letters of recommendation are now collected online. List your references in the space provided on your online application. This will generate an email from our Graduate School to each of your references with a link to our electronic recommendation form. Consult this link for more information: http://info.gradsch.wisc.edu/admin/admissions/elorinstructions.html.

Can I use a paper from a class for my writing sample?

Yes, certainly. a paper that is 3000-4000 words. It should be on a philosophical subject, and should show off your analytical and writing skills.

I just want a one or two year degree. Do you have an M.A. program in philosophy?

No. All graduate students are accepted for the Ph.D. program only; they receive a master's degree en route to the Ph.D. A few students, after they are here a while, and for personal reasons, decide to opt for the terminal Masters, but all of our students are here officially for the Ph.D. We recommend Marquette University or University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee for an M.A. in philosophy.

What are my chances of getting a fellowship?

The reality is that very few students are admitted with fellowships. Competition is fierce and the university offers only a handful to each department. Fellowships are awarded only to students with excellent academic backgrounds, outstanding letters of reference and a writing sample of the highest quality. On average, about 4 fellowships are offered to new students each fall.

Are new grad students offered positions as teaching assistants?

Yes, we offer 5 years of support (fellowships and/or teaching, research/project assistant positions) to all incoming graduate students beginning their first fall semester.

When will I hear if I got in?

If you have been granted a fellowship, we will be in touch with you in late February. All other applicants should receive an e-mail or letter by the end of March, concerning their status.

How long does it usually take for your graduate students to complete their Ph.D.’s?

This ranges from 4 to 8 years, with most students falling into the 5-6 year category.

What is your placement record?

See our placement history at: http://philosophy.wisc.edu/graduate/placement.html