How do I know if you've received my application?
If you have already submitted your application and wish to inquire into the status, you may do so online. Log in to the online application system with your user ID and password and select 'View Application Status' from the Application Services page. Through the online application system, you can also update your personal information and/or review any outstanding documents that you are requested to submit with your application (e.g. test scores, transcripts, fees). The information displayed is updated daily, but a delay in displaying the current status of an item is likely at busy times.
When will I be notified of your decision on my application?
You will receive a letter from us approximately in mid-March. You may also check the status of your application online by logging in to the online application system.
Does the department offer a TESOL degree?
We offer an undergraduate TESL Linguistics Certificate. However, we do not offer additional teacher education (e.g., a supervised practicum) at the graduate level. Many of our graduate students conduct research on topics in applied linguistics, in areas such as second language acquisition, computer-assisted language learning, and language planning. This research leads to a thesis rather than a curriculum document. In addition, all of our graduate students must complete graduate level coursework in phonology and syntax.
Do you accept applications for Summer or Spring semester?
No, we admit students for Fall semester only.
Do you permit part-time study?
No.
For students whose primary language is not English, what is the language proficiency score requirement?
The minimum university requirement is 7.0 on the International English LanguageTest System (IELTS - the academic NOT the general test) with a minimum of 6.5 in any section.
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) may be used as an equivalent test provided a score of 93 or better is achieved with a minimum of 20 in each section (TOEFL-internet based exam), or TOEFL 580 and the Test of Written English (TWE) 5.0 (paper-based). Any equivalent test must include a writing component and all test scores are valid for a period of two years from the date of the test.
What if I am missing some of the application materials?
Unfortunately, we cannot consider your application until all documents have been received. Please make sure that you start the application process early enough so that all supporting documents can arrive on time.
Who should I contact for a graduate program application and information package?
All of the information about the graduate program is on our graduate program web site. We do not send a hard-copy graduate program application form or information package. Application must be made by filling in the online application form. Any additional forms you need for application are also available on our graduate program admissions web site.
How do I apply for fellowships or other funding?
You will be automatically considered for the Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship, Graduate Fellowships, and the Graduate Dean's Entrance Scholarship (PhD students only) unless you indicate you already have a scholarship in your online application. No additional application forms are necessary.
Do I need to secure a supervisor prior to applying?
It is not required for application and admission to our programs to secure a supervisor prior to application. As you proceed through the online application, you will have the opportunity to indicate up to three faculty members with whom you share research interests and may be interested in working should you be accepted to the program. The admission committee reviews all applications and directs applications to specific faculty members for further review and consideration, but no previous communication with a potential supervisor is expected or necessary.
Would you check my transcript in advance and tell me if I am qualified to apply?
The requirements related to linguistic background are specified on the Department of Linguistics Admissions page. You should be able to determine whether you have the required background in linguistics by reviewing carefully the information on this page. All applicants must determine their eligibility for admission to Simon Fraser University graduate studies; international applicants should review carefully the minimum equivalent academic requirements according to the country of origin of their credentials.