TOEFL TOEFL: 550 on paper-based or 80 on Internet-based test IELTS An overall band score of 6.0 with no individual score below 5.0. GRE In general, verbal and analytical writing scores for admission to the MA program need to be in at least the 60th percentile

PS The American Studies Department requires an essay of no more than 500 words to accompany your Master's application (note: this serves as your writing sample). The department's graduate admissions committee reads the essays carefully, and they are an important factor in our consideration of candidates. What we are looking for, first, is a bit of intellectual autobiography to understand how you gained an interest in American Studies, what particular focus you see yourself pursuing, and why you think our department is an appropriate place for you. You need to explain how your interests intersect with the interests of the faculty and the opportunities for professional development in Washington. We want to know that you have considered your professional development and that we are the appropriate department to direct you. The essay should also lay out tentative career goals the degree will assist. In what sort of job do you see yourself working after you have the degree? The Statement of Purpose is an unusual challenge. It requires both an intellectual and professional accounting of your academic work, career goals, intellectual interests, and the relation of these to the GW faculty strengths. In addition, it requires some personal information about your intellectual passions, convictions, and desires. Take the appropriate amount of time to compose a thoughtful, well-written essay. GPA For admission to a graduate program, GW requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Fee Application fee: $75 RL This is an academic program, and we are looking for letters that attest to your intellectual training, competence, skills, and career interests. Although the Columbian College requires only one letter for the MA application, the American Studies Department requires that you submit TWO letters. These should be from faculty who have worked with you, although it is also acceptable to have one letter from a supervisor who has directed work in a quasi-academic setting, such as a museum, historic house site, or preservation office, and can attest to your intellectual work in such a setting. Transcript Please keep in mind that you must still request that academic transcripts and GRE scores be sent directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions in the Columbian College of Arts & Sciences (CCAS) prior to the application deadline. (Note: The ETS code required to send GRE scores to CCAS is 5246.)  Applications will not be considered complete until all materials have been received. (NOTE: Starting in the Fall 2012, the Department of American Studies will no longer be accepting applications for the Folklife concentration.) Any admissions materials submitted by mail should be sent to: Columbian College of Arts & Sciences Office of Graduate Admissions The George Washington University Phillips Hall, Room 107 801 22nd Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20052 Phone: 202-994-6210 Fax: 202-994-6213 E-mail: askccas@gwu.edu