Canada · September 2027 MA and PhD entry
Dalhousie graduate English statement of intent
Dalhousie's Department of English asks MA and PhD applicants for a 500-word statement of intent. MA applicants describe their specific interests in the programme; PhD applicants describe a proposed area of thesis work. Its writing-sample guidance differs by applicant circumstances. This is a literature programme, not language teaching or linguistics.
Writing format
500-word statement of intent, with different MA and PhD focus
What to prepare
- 1For the MA, define a focused literary interest and show the reading or academic work that led you to it.
- 2For the PhD, describe a plausible thesis area, its central questions, and how your preparation supports the project.
- 3Use the statement to show scholarly aims; leave transcripts and references to document your record and prior work.
How to approach the writing
- Keep the statement to 500 words and send supplemental material directly to the English Department as instructed.
- Consult the department before paying the application fee, as its admissions page asks prospective MA and PhD applicants to do.
Before you submit
The department gives January 15, 2027 for September 2027 entry and October 17, 2026 for early consideration. It says a sample is not generally required but also directs some applicants whose first language is not English to submit one. Confirm your current writing-sample and transcript checklist and any separate scholarship deadlines with the department.
Read Dalhousie Department of English graduate admission guidelines ↗Official source checked 2026-09-26.