All application materials must be received no later 11:59 p.m. on December 1.
Domestic Applications
Application process
- Complete the online application
Complete the online application.
- Include a personal statement
Include a personal statement of approximately 500 words. Be as clear, direct, and specific as you can be concerning: 1) your desired research area and/or project; 2) your preparation for undertaking this research; and 3) the anticipated fit of your projected research to our program and faculty.
- Submit letters of recommendation
Letters of recommendation should come from individuals familiar with your ability to do scholarly work. Select a minimum of three persons who are familiar with your academic abilities and potential. Once your application has been submitted, the individuals you have selected for recommendations will receive an email with a link to the recommendation form.
We suggest that you follow up with your letter writers in a timely fashion after you ask them to write. Admission decisions are often delayed solely due to missing reference letters.
- Submit the supplemental list of activities
A list stating your teaching, research, and/or other experience; a publications list, if relevant; and any college or professional honors and awards. You may attach a resume if you like. Be sure to include your name on any attachments.
- Submit a writing sample (Ph.D. only)
For Ph.D. applicants only: a writing sample of 15-25 pages showing your ability to conduct research in a chosen area.
- Submit your official transcript
One copy of the official transcript(s) of all previous college and university work, documenting each course taken and all degrees awarded. Applicants must submit an official transcript from each college and university attended. An official transcript bears the original signature of the registrar and/or the original seal of the issuing institution.
Transcripts should be mailed directly by a registrar to the program to which the application is being sent or given to the applicant by the registrar in a sealed and signed envelope and then submitted to the graduate program by the applicant along with the other application materials.
Graduation from a recognized four-year college, university, or institute of technology with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Pay the application fees
For most programs, the application fee is $70 for domestic students. You pay this fee at the time you submit your online application.
Mailing address
Applicants should send hard copies of transcripts to the address below. If a recommender prefers to send a hard copy recommendation, please instruct the recommender to send the physical copy to the Department of Religious Studies by January 2.
Complete the online application by the deadline. If you cannot access the online application, send hard copies of your materials to:
Religious Studies Department
1033 E. 3rd Street
Sycamore Hall, Room 230
Bloomington, IN 47405
We will process your application only after the online application has been submitted and supporting materials are received.
Social Security Numbers
In accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974 and Indiana Code 4-1-8, applicants for admission and enrolled students are advised that the requested disclosure of their Social Security numbers is voluntary. Students who do not provide the University with their Social Security number will be assigned a special nine-digit number. This number or the Social Security number will be used: a) to identify such student records as applications for admission, registration and course enrollment documents, grade reports, transcript requests, certification requests, and permanent academic records; and b) to determine eligibility, certify school attendance, and report student status. A student who wishes to apply for federal or state grants, loans, or other financial aid programs is required to supply a Social Security number. No student's Social Security number will be disclosed to individuals or agencies outside Indiana University except in accordance with the Indiana University Policy on Student Records.
The College of Arts