<p>Getting back to the OPs question…</p>
<p>Your basic credentials (GPA, coursework) are good. You’ll also need to take the GRE general test and possibly the subject test. You can strengthen your application if you have a solid grasp of one or more modern research languages. Check the programs you’re applying to to determine what’s right for you. French and German are pretty typical.</p>
<p>Now, forget all about tiers. </p>
<p>Graduate school in the humanities is a whole different animal and the competition for jobs at the other end (i.e. once you have a PhD) is fierce. Your speciality interests and the strength of various programs in those areas will determine where you apply. When you start to talk to your professors about LoRs you can also engage them in developing your list of schools.</p>
<p>Chances… humanities graduate admissions are impossible guess at. In any given year and at any given program you might be a lock or have no chance at all. This is another place your professors will be able to help. They’ll know (or can find out) what specific programs are looking for in your year, whether or not Prof. Big Name In Field will be accepting new students and so forth. </p>
<p>Read over the first page of “Graduate School Admissions 101”. It is somewhat oriented toward the sciences and engineering, but the general advice is sound. </p>
<p>Good Luck!</p>