Undergraduate Students
Graduate Students
Faculty
Alumni and Friends
Study Abroad with English Faculty
Publications
Writing Sites at EIU
Related Interdisciplinary Minors
Apply to English Studies Student Conference
Contact Us
Close Reading Cooperative
Checklist for Graduate Assistantship Applications
The following documents must be on file with the Graduate School to insure eligibility for an assistantship.
□ Complete Application for Admission : An application for admission as a degree seeking candidate must be on file at the Graduate School. A complete application includes (1) the application form (available here); (2) official transcripts reflecting completion of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited four-year college or university and a GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale; (3) GRE General Test score.
□ Completed Graduate Assistantship Application: Apply for a graduate assistantship in the English Department at this web address here.
□ International Applications: International students must have official test scores (TOEFL and GRE, GMAT, or MAT – as specified on the Graduate Admission Application), a completed financial affidavit, and complete transcripts on file before an assistantship will be offered.
The following items should be sent directly to the Graduate Coordinator of English.
□ Two Letters of Recommendation: Provide each letter writer with a copy of the Letter of Recommendation Form. Letter writers should mail letters directly to the Graduate Coordinator of English.
□ Personal Statement: Submit a statement of 500-750 words that explains your reasons for undertaking graduate study, your academic preparation, your interests and goals, and your qualifications for a graduate assistantship.
□ Curriculum Vitae or Resume: Please attach this document to the personal statement.
□ Writing Sample: Send a sample of critical writing that shows us your ability to think and write critically on one of the following: 1) a subject related to English; 2) the academic interests you intend to pursue in graduate school; 3) an area of study in which you have research and writing experience. Your sample should be at least 5 pages long and no more than 20.
