Joy93

Hello everyone, I am looking to apply to various MA programs in Art History throughout the US and the UK for Fall 2016 entrance. I am wondering if anyone has any concrete advice about writing letters of intent/personal statements. In particular, how specific should I be about my research interests and the topic that I am interested in pursuing? How much detail is required? I have heard of PhD applicants sending their letters in along with extensive bibliographies -- is this necessary at the MA level? Are we expected to know specifics about a thesis topic that we want to pursue in advance of being accepted/beginning our studies? If anyone has any insight about how these letters differ in U.S. vs. UK applications, that would also be much appreciated. As well, I am wondering about the advantages of applying to U.S. MA programs early. I understand that most schools have a final deadline around early to mid December, but are our chances increased if we apply well in advance of these deadlines? Do most schools work with rolling applications? Thanks so much for the help!