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.