The committee reviews each application very carefully and weighs all aspects of a candidate’s preparation for graduate study. The primary elements of the application include: academic transcript, (3) letters of recommendations, GRE scores, TOEFL scores for international students, personal statement (1000 word maximum), and writing sample (30 double-spaced pages maximum). All offer insights into a student’s past achievements and prospects for future development. It is normally expected that students have a solid background in art history, but it is not necessary to have majored in art history. In addition, applicants should demonstrate good proficiency in at least one foreign language; both German and French will be required of all Ph.D. students before they advance to candidacy.