KnightGeorge

Totally anecdotal (and History of Christianity areas have different ways of approaching apps than NT folks), but I got into multiple schools with a 4.5. A strong statement of purpose and recommendations will put you solidly in the "we'll take a close look at you" pile, from what I've discovered.

I can second MarthUser's statement. Of course, you want to be as strong a candidate as possible, but it really does change significantly depending on the application year, to a level that it is out of your control. I know for a fact that there were stronger candidates than me on paper at a few different programs I got into, but when the time came the fit that I had was much better than others. Smarts and drive will probably get you the interview, but being interesting, having good questions, or at the end of the day just being an actual, socialized human being is often what will get you through the door--again, in my own experience.

A little late to this thread, but the advice here is generally pretty good. I would suggest living on the Cambridge side of the Charles, even if that means you have to live a little farther out. The red line is quick and pretty reliable, so I would even look as far out as Davis Sq. That area leading up to Harvard is also incredibly bike-friendly, so you shouldn't have trouble getting around. Allston and Brighton do have some affordable housing, but as someone above suggested, it's much more sketchy (IMO) than the neighborhoods north of the city and it won't save you much time. Your price should be totally fine if you're open to living with others. If you want a place of your own, you CAN find studios (maybe a one bedroom?) for around $1300, you just have to dig deep in the mire that is Boston area Craigslist and not be too picky.

Great news! Baylor contacted me and I am in off the waitlist! Huzzah!

I have yet to hear anything from Baylor re: the waitlist in my area (Church History). Getting really antsy about it...

Did your POI contact you or was it the Grad. Director?

Perhaps. Hey, a little more knowledge can never hurt. We'll just see what shakes loose later in March, I suppose.

Thanks. I didn't interview or anything--red flag #1-- but I know historically Marquette makes offers a little later than some of the other programs.

Is it safe to assume Marquette's Historical Theology offers are all locked up? Haven't seen anything on the results page (Sys and Ethics, but not Historical), and my application is still open on the site...but no news at this point in the season starts to look more and more like bad news. Can anyone drop some knowledge?

Alas, what I wouldn't give for a word from Marquette...

There has been a Harvard posting. This is not a drill, folks.

Has anyone heard about Marquette's Historical Theology this season? Any word? Also, Vanderbilt's Theology dept?

Just saw an SMU post -- has anyone heard anything further about apps at SMU? I'm assuming they don't do interviews often since they're scarce on the forum or results.

@Marcion a prophet of our age.

Me too! It's like this year is either all or nothing: Instant accept or total silence. I know it's just impatience. By March 1, we'll all be pretty well set either way.