University of California-Santa Barbara

PhD, Visual and Performing Arts

Deadline Jan 10, 2027

Outcome figures are institution wide, from the US Department of Education College Scorecard.

What you need to apply

GRENot required
English test (TOEFL or IELTS)See policy
TOEFL or IELTS or Duolingo English Test (DET)
Minimum GPASee policy
3.0
Recommendation lettersRequired
3 letters
Prior degreeSee policy
a graduate degree comparable to the relevant MA or MM degree at UCSB
Statement of purposeRequired

“The GRE is NOT required for any applicants to the Department of Music.”

“Yes, the Music Department at UCSB provides all accepted students a funding offer.”

“Applicants to the PhD and DMA programs must have a graduate degree comparable to the relevant MA or MM degree at UCSB.”