How to Apply

Deadline for Fall 2026: March 13, 2026

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis – we invite you to apply early!

1. Apply for admission to Sonoma State University through Cal State Apply.
   1. You will be asked to submit a complete set of official transcripts, sent under registrar’s seal, from all undergraduate institutions to Sonoma State University. If you are a current student, you do not need to request transcripts from SSU.
   2. You will be prompted to enter the email addresses for two persons who can write letters of recommendation on your behalf. At least one of these should be a professor who can speak to your ability to undertake graduate level work. 
   3. You will be asked to submit a writing sample. This should be a substantial paper that demonstrates your ability to do historical research and writing, such as a senior seminar paper. 
   4. You will also be asked to write a statement of purpose. This statement should address your reasons for applying to graduate school, your area(s) of historical interest, and your preparation for graduate work. 
   5. You do NOT need to submit any GRE scores.
2. Financial Assistance: 
   1. All students are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) form as early as possible, which is required for both financial aid and scholarships
   2. SSU offers several funding opportunities, which you can learn about on the Graduate Studies funding page.
   3. Students interested in working on campus should use SSU Career Center’s Handshake to look for positions. Many of our students have found history-related work in the library or in LARC as tutors or writing instructors, for example.

Questions about the department components of the application? Please contact the Graduate Coordinator, Dr. Michelle Jolly ([email protected] )