Application

Important Dates

Application Opens: October 7th
Application Closes: January 7th
Decisions Released: Early to mid-February

Application Materials

A complete online application consists of the following:

  • Personal contact information
  • Academic history
  • Two academic references: Referees should be prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications. Upon entering referee information into the online application, our electronic reference system will automatically send an email directly to your referees requesting their evaluation.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable): Your testing service should send your score electronically to Western. More information is available from SGPS here.
  • Writing sample: A recent essay or thesis chapter. There is no hard minimum or maximum length, but it is preferable for your writing sample to be no longer than 5000 words (excluding notes and bibliography). 3000–4000 words is a good target. 
  • Statement of interest: Approximately 300–500 words in length. This statement is not binding on your subsequent research.
  • Post-secondary transcripts: Electronic copies of unofficial transcripts from each post-secondary institution listed in your academic history. If the transcript and degree certificate are not in English, a certified translation must also be included. Non-English transcripts from institutions within Canada do not require a translation. If you are offered admission, you will be required to submit all hardcopy official transcripts.
  • Application fee payment of $150 (effective May 1, 2023): Accepted methods of payment are Visa, MasterCard, non-personal cheque or money order/bank draft from a Canadian banking institution.

Online Application

 

For questions about the online application, email the School of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies Application Support Team at gradapps@uwo.ca.

For other questions about applying, email the Department of Philosophy's Graduate Chair and Graduate Program Coordinator at philgradoffice@uwo.ca.