Students are admitted to graduate study (only in the Fall) by the Graduate School on the recommendation of the Department. Entering classes now average five students.
Special Admissions Requirements for Comparative Literature
Selection is based on the applicant’s undergraduate record, evidence of motivation supplied in the candidate’s personal statement of academic purpose, evidence of ability to do advanced work as expressed in a writing sample (not to exceed 20 pages) and supported by three letters of recommendation, and preparation in languages sufficient to satisfy the language requirement. We do not consider GRE test scores. Please read the Frequently Asked Questions about the Graduate Program for further information.
The application deadline for Fall 2024 is December 15, 2023. The application is available online through the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences Admissions page. All application materials, supporting credentials and recommendations, official standardized test scores, and application fee must be received by the deadline to be considered by Yale for admission. Due to current circumstances a fee waiver is possible for applicants suffering from financial hardship additional information may be found on the Yale Graduate Schools admissions website. Admissions decisions are announced by late February.
Combined Programs
The Department of Comparative Literature also offers three Combined Ph.D. degrees with the Department of Classics, the Film Studies Program, and the Renaissance Studies Program. For detailed descriptions of the combined degree programs, please click here.
General New Student Information, Questions, and Referrals
The McDougal Center serves as “information central” for incoming students. The Center can address new student questions about families, childcare, parking, travel, schedules, or other areas of life at Yale and in New Haven. Contact: (203) 432-BLUE, or mcdougal.center@yale.edu.
Living in New Haven is a Yale-wide web page for all prospective & current students, faculty & staff. Pictures, video testimonials, neighborhood profiles and information links on community, housing culture, shopping, transit and services in New Haven are posted on the site. The Yale Visitors Center offers tours, exhibits, attractions, lodging, directions, and more.
The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences Programs and Policies, aka The Blue Book, lists policies, programs and courses and is available online in August each academic year.
Please note that first-year students are expected to arrive on campus in late August in order to participate in an orientation program prior to the start of the fall term.
Our Graduate Housing office begins to accept applications for on-campus dormitories and apartments on April 1, and Yale-affiliated University Properties begins leasing apartments now for summer. Apply promptly, as space is limited.