PhD Program Admissions

Each year The Fletcher School admits a select group of students who seek a PhD in International Relations. The Fletcher School PhD program is most appropriate for students proposing an interdisciplinary dissertation topic.

To apply to the PhD program at The Fletcher School, prospective students must have a Master's degree in a field that is relevant to international relations, and directly related to the applicant's proposed doctoral studies. The applicant's Master's degree must come from a program that required at least one and a half years of full-time study (not including internships or thesis preparation), and at least twelve courses in which the applicant earned a cumulative GPA of 3.6 or higher. Students enrolled in Fletcher's MALD program may apply to the PhD program during their second year of study.

  • If you have previously earned a MALD or MIB degree or are currently in the MALD or MIB program, you should email fletcheradmissions@tufts.edu for instructions on the internal PhD application process.

Although not required, at least a couple of years of full-time work experience is highly recommended for applicants to the PhD program. The PhD Committee on Admissions seeks to admit students whose professional and academic accomplishments will contribute strongly to the Fletcher community. Prospective applicants should contact Fletcher School professors in the desired fields of study to ensure that their topic is a good match with the expertise of the School.

Tuition scholarships are granted on the basis of need and merit to PhD students in the coursework phase of their degree. Some stipend funding may also be available and, as scholarships are not tied to research or teaching responsibilities, students may arrange their own preferred work during the academic year. Scholarships are also available for the Enrollment Fee paid by PhD students who have completed their coursework. Applicants for admission to the PhD program should complete the scholarship application form on the online application.

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The Office of Admissions at The Fletcher School seeks to provide applicants with the very best service. To ensure that you receive updates on the Ph.D. program and activities at the School, please provide your contact information. We will keep you informed about special events in your area, as well as updates about the School and the admissions process, including on-line chats, admissions tips, and deadline reminders.