<p>I'm trying to figure out my chances in applying to either MA or PhD History programs in ivy league schools. Maybe Harvard? My stats are:</p>
<p>undergrad History major, GPA 3.7<br>
GRE: 700V / 800Q / 5.0 AW
My LOR should all be solid.</p>
<p>The writing sample I'm using is from a 70 page research paper I wrote for my senior thesis. Beyond that, I don't have much significant research experience aside from 10-15pg research papers for various classes.</p>
<p>My focus is on modern European history, btw. Can someone provide me of an idea of my chances at the best History graduate programs?</p>
<p>I’m no expert in history, but it sounds like you have a decent shot. The problem, of course, is that the competition is fierce, and thus you’ll be playing what my adviser called the “numbers game.” Basically, all these top tier schools received hundreds of applications, a sizable chunk of which will all be well qualified, yet they can only admit a handful. Probably Harvard especially.</p>
<p>Regardless, it’s probably worth your time (and money) to try applying to a number of the top schools, and hopefully you’ll be accepted by at least one.</p>
<p>I took several undergrad courses in Chinese. I thought it was cool and enjoy it a lot. However, that doesn’t translate well to a specialization in European history lol. I took some French in high school, don’t really care for it. So I was thinking about studying German next. I realize this is a weak point.</p>
<p>I’m sorry but unless you’re looking to do something with Chinese or study British history, it will be difficult to get in excellent programs without serious training in at least one European language. Your competition will generally have advanced knowledge in at least one language.</p>
<p>It’s an unfortunate truth but after writing sampe, SOP, and letters, languages are considered seriously. Don’t give them a reason to rule you out.</p>
<p>Yeah, I was somewhat aware that this might be a problem. I plan on studying a language (prob German) intensively over the next year or two to make up for this before I apply. But I just wanted to get an overall analysis of my other credentials in applying to top level history programs. Thanks for the input.</p>