Linguistics (MA)

Frequently asked questions

• How much does Linguistics (MA) cost?

  CAD 8,571 / year.

• What English score does it need?

  IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.

• How long is it?

  2 years, as listed by the university.

• What are the entry requirements?

  completion of a 4-year bachelor's degree (or equivalent), preferably in linguistics, from a university recognized by UVic - a minimum overall B+ average in the final year of your bachelor's degree - proof of English language proficiency if first language is not English* *The minimum required scores to be admitted to this program are: - TOEFL : the minimum score is 600 on the standard paper-based test, 250 on the computer-based test, or 100 on the internet-based test - IELTS : the minimum score is 7 on all components of the test Learn more about language requirements , including allowable exemptions and tests. Review our general admission requirements for more information. Program specific requirements You must include the following with your application: - a letter of intent (maximum 2 pages) outlining: - - why you chose to apply to the UVic linguistics graduate program - how your background has prepared you for this program - what area of study you want to specialize in - transcripts from the post-secondary institutions at which you have studied - two letters of reference - your most up-to-date curriculum vitae (résumé) - a writing sample: maximum 5 pages of a publication or major term paper that represents your experience in linguistics (and/or related fields), and writing style. Partial papers are acceptable. IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no section less than 6.0 (Academic IELTS only, test centre or online; IELTS Academic One Skill Retake accepted); TOEFL iBT for tests taken after 21 January 2026: 4.5 overall with no section less than 4.0; for tests taken before 21 January 2026: 90 overall with no section less than 20 (iBT test centre or Home Edition; MyBest Scores accepted); PTE 65 with no skill less than 60; CAEL 70 with no component below 60; MET 64 with no section less than 60; Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 180 with no component below 170. Test scores more than two years old are not accepted. Individual departments may set a higher standard. (Source: UVic Graduate Admissions, Language proficiency.) · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 90; PTE Academic 65 · English test waiver: Requirement already met if English is your primary language, you hold a degree from a designated English-speaking country, or you hold a degree from a recognized institution at which the language of instruction is English. Applicants who cannot provide proof may still be considered and complete UVic's University Admission Preparation (UAP) course with a grade of at least 80%, provided the prospective academic unit is willing to admit on that condition; UAP is a 12-week program offered in January, April and September, and in an intensive four-week summer format. UVic does not accept university English preparation courses from other institutions. · Application fee: CAD 187.00 if any documents originate outside Canada; CAD 145.25 if all documents originate within Canada (payable online by credit card; the application is not processed until payment is received). Source: UVic Graduate Admissions, How to apply.

• Is there a scholarship?

  Graduate students admitted to a graduate degree programs are automatically considered for a fellowship, based on a qualifying GPA. Individual fellowship amounts may vary depending on the program. UVic Fellowships - Up to $20,000 per year (master's) Eligibility - The minimum requirement for UVic fellowship consideration is a B+ average on the last two years of course work - To receive your payment, UVic fellowship holders must be registered in a minimum of 1.5 units of graduate level courses - Full-time registration for students registered with the Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL) is 1.5 units You can also join the co-op program or work as a research or teaching assistant . Funding opportunities