Anthropology Department Admissions Frequently Asked Questions
For a list of all application materials required and where they should be sent, please go here.
1. What is your application deadline?
All application materials must be RECEIVED (not just postmarked) IN OUR OFFICE (not someplace else on campus) by December 15. If your application is not complete by the deadline, it will not be reviewed.
2. How many women are in the program? How many international students? How many minority students?
Of students currently in the program, 63% are women, 20% are international, and 18% are minority.
3. How many applicants do you have each year? What percentage gets accepted?
We average 160 applications a year and about 25% are offered admission. Our Biological Anthropology program is our most competitive, with about 10% of applicants receiving offers of admission.
4. Do I need a degree in Anthropology to be admitted?
Not necessarily. We consider your other relevant qualifications or experience in our decision. Your advisor may assign remedial coursework or reading lists when you get here.
5. I only have a BA. Can I be admitted?
On the application, choose Doctor of Philosophy as your degree goal. If you don’t have a Master’s degree in anthropology, you may be required to complete an anthropology MA before continuing into the PhD program.
6. What if I only want to earn an MA?
We do not encourage terminal MAs. Our program is tailored toward students whose eventual goal is a PhD.
7. What GPA is required?
A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, and a GPA of 3.5 is preferred. Very low GPA or test scores will weaken your application.
8. What about the GRE?
We require the GRE verbal and quantitative sections, but no subject-matter GRE tests. On the post-2011 GRE scale, our accepted applicants average 158 verbal and 151 quantitative. Higher scores make you more competitive for funding.
9. What should I know about my Statement of Purpose?
Write a focused Statement of Purpose. Tell us specifically what research questions interest you, what background you have, and where you would like to do your research. Relate your interests to those of our faculty. Say which current faculty you would like to work with.
10. Must all of my recommendations be from professors?
The letters can be from anyone who can speak to the qualities which would make you a good researcher and graduate student. If possible, submit at least one letter from someone who has direct academic experience with you.
11. How can I improve my chances of admission?
Contact faculty you want to work with. Faculty information is at http://www.anthro.ufl.edu/faculty_list.shtml. Our faculty generally won't admit students they haven't heard from.
12. When can I expect notification of admissions or funding decisions?
By the end of February. Some funding offers may be made later in the spring.
13. Do you fund everyone?
We do not automatically fund all accepted students. Departmental funding is given regardless of national origin.
14. I still can’t find the answer to my question.
Contact the Graduate Program Assistant
