What We're Looking For

The selection of Ph.D. students admitted to the Department of Linguistics is based on an individualized review of each application, including (but not limited to) the applicant’s academic record, the letters of recommendation, the statement of purpose, personal qualities and characteristics, and past accomplishments. We consider each application holistically, looking for evidence that the applicant not only will thrive in our graduate program, but will go on to put the training we offer to fruitful use in an academic or a non-academic career.  We look for evidence of:

  • academic potential as evidenced in past academic achievement
  • an understanding of what Linguistics is.  In general, we prefer students who have had at least some training in Linguistics
  • a strong motivation to engage in Linguistics
  • an understanding of, and passion for, research
  • a good fit between the applicant’s interests and the interests and capabilities of our faculty

Your supporting materials should be designed to provide this evidence.

GPA and GRE

The department considers all components of the application.  There are therefore no specific GPA minimum scores. We also no longer require the GRE standardized test. 

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:

  1. Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association; or
  2. Completion of an international degree that is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing. Please see the minimum international education requirements.

In addition, most of our students have a B.A. or an M.A. in Linguistics.  We occasionally admit applicants whose B.A. or M.A. is in a related area, but only if they give evidence of having carried out considerable coursework and/or research in Linguistics.

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