Students applying to the M.A. program in MBS should have a solid foundation in one or more aspects of medieval studies and substantial training in languages (medieval and/or modern research languages). While many students come with a B.A. in history, English, languages, religious studies, and philosophy, other programs may also provide sufficient background. Promising students who lack the appropriate level of language proficiency are encouraged to complete a certificate program in Greek or Latin or other language training prior to beginning the program.

Academic standing: All MA candidates must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 in order to continue in the program.

Minimally accepted TOEFL scores, when applying for graduate programs, are 550-paper, 213-computer, and 80 Internet. Students taking the TOEFL should have at least 20 out of 30 in each of the TOEFL subcategories. The minimally accepted graduate IELTS score is 6.5. Individual IELTS test module scores are also reviewed in addition to the overall IELTS score.