Admissions

The application deadline for Autumn 2027 applications is December 1, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. US Central Time.

The PhD program in political economy draws prospective students with an interest in using game theory and empirical methods for causal inference to study political institutions and behavior.

Prospective students submit a single application directly to the PhD program in political economy through the Division of the Social Sciences. A complete application consists of transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended, three letters of recommendation, a candidate statement, a writing sample, official GRE scores, and (where required to demonstrate English proficiency) official TOEFL or IELTS scores. An application fee is also required; a waiver is possible in some limited circumstances. 

Information regarding PhD fellowships can be found on the Social Sciences Division website.