Graduate Admissions FAQs

Do I need the complete the on-line Graduate Division application?
Yes, all applicants must submit the on-line Graduate Division application. The Department of Music does not accept paper applications.
Does the Department of Music offer a terminal Master's Degree?
The Department of Music does not offer the terminal Master's degree; you would have to apply to the MA/Ph.D. program.
Can I receive a Ph.D. degree in Performance?
No, the Ph.D. in Music has three emphases: Composition, Ethnomusicology, and History and Literature.
I already have a Master's Degree, do I have to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?
Yes, all applicants must take the GRE.
Do international students need to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?
Yes, all applicants to the graduate program in Music must take the Graduate Record Exam.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline for receiving graduate applications, letters of recommendation, official transcripts, TOEFL scores and GPA Computation sheets is December 1st. GRE scores must be received by the Department of Music no later than December 28th.
How will I be notified of the outcome of my graduate application?
All applicants will be notified by e-mail.
When will I be notified of the outcome of my graduate application?
Applicants will be notified no later than March 15th.
If I am accepted into the graduate program, what is the final date that I can accept my admission offer?
April 15th
What is the typical funding package for accepted students?
For those students entering at the M.A. level, the department guarantees five years of funding. For those students entering at the Ph.D. level, the department guarantees four years of funding. Funding will be a combination of fellowship monies and Graduate Student Instructorships.
Do I need to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?
All U.S. citizens and permanent residents must complete the FAFSA application.
What about housing?
Housing: New students are advised to arrive in the area as early as possible to find housing. Housing information can be obtained from the University Housing Office, 2401 Bowditch Street, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-2272 or at CalRentals online.
How do I establish legal residence?
Establishing Legal Residence: Information on legal residence for tuition purposes can be found in the General Catalog. Since the establishment of legal residence involves considerable documentation over a period of slightly more than one year, incoming students are advised to attend to the matter immediately upon arrival.