Admissions - Ph.D. in Literature

The 2025-26 Graduate Admissions Application is open

Apply | UC Davis Graduate Studies

The deadline to apply to our program is January 5, 2026.
Note: An M.A. in Literature may be completed en route to the Ph.D., but it is not offered as a stand-alone degree.
 

The Graduate Studies Application Components page covers many common admissions questions. If you need more information, our program staff are happy to help. For updates on your application status, please check online or contact us directly.

Application Requirements
The department carefully considers all parts of your application to understand your accomplishments, experiences, and potential. This ensures a fair and complete assessment of each applicant’s strengths and contributions to the program.

• Writing sample (see below for details)
• Admissions Essays:
  • Personal Statement
  • Statement of Purpose
• Three letters of recommendation
• TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable
• Copies of transcripts
• Pay the application fee
• Admissions Requirements and Eligibility as set by UC Davis Graduate Studies

Writing Sample

Submit one or two research or term papers completed for English courses. The combined total should not exceed 30 pages, excluding images and bibliography.

If your submitted work was completed more than two to three years ago, it is advisable to revise the papers to incorporate more current research and sources.

Please ensure that your papers are carefully proofread prior to submission to reflect your strongest written work.

International Applicants

International applicants should review the application information for international applicants for additional requirements and guidance.

Application Fee Waivers

Graduate Studies offers application fee waivers only to applicants who have participated in designated graduate preparation programs.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required. Letters should be written by professors or other individuals qualified to evaluate your potential for advanced academic work.

Letters from faculty who have supervised your post secondary studies are strongly preferred. They should address your research ability, academic achievements, and, if applicable, experience in teaching, tutoring, or mentoring.

Transcripts

Unofficial copies of transcripts are acceptable for the application review process. If admitted, official transcripts will be required by Graduate Studies.

UC Davis requires academic records from each college-level institution attended. Detailed instructions are available here.

Funding Your Ph.D.

All students admitted to the Ph.D. program receive five years of guaranteed funding, typically through Teaching Assistant (TA) and Associate Instructor (AI) appointments. These positions include a tuition and fee remission that covers Resident Regular Tuition and Health Insurance, along with a monthly salary. A limited number of Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) positions are also available.

The department also provides access to departmental funds, such as the Miller Travel Fund, which supports student travel for conferences, research, and interviews. Progress-based and summer stipends may also be awarded through funding allocated by Graduate Studies.

We’re happy to answer any questions about the Ph.D. program.