PhD Comparative Literature at Harvard University

Programme overview

In this program, you will study literatures from a wide range of historical periods and cultures while learning to conduct cutting-edge research through an exhilarating scope of methods and approaches Harvard’s Department of Comparative Literature is one of the most dynamic and diverse in the country.

Faculty: Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Comparative Literature | Study mode: full-time | Intake: Fall | Location: Cambridge, MA, United States

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Application information

Entry requirements

Harvard Griffin GSAS admission (programme-specific) - Writing Sample: The writing sample is supposed to demonstrate your ability to engage in literary criticism and/or theory. It can be a paper written for a course or a section of a senior thesis or essay. Statement of Purpose: Required. Personal Statement: Required. Standardized Tests: GRE General: Optional; GRE Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology Subject Tests: Optional.

USD 59,048 a year (2026-2027). Full tuition rate for the first two years of study (reduced in years 3-4); PhD students typically receive grants covering tuition. Source

Intake: Fall

Apply through the official page: https://gsas.harvard.edu/apply

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