How to Apply for the MA Program
Eligibility
In order to be competitive for admission as a classified student to the MA programs in Linguistics at San Diego State University, applicants must meet the criteria below. Applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA and/or test scores may be considered for conditional admission.
- Obtain a GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 units of coursework taken.
- The GRE is not required for admission.
- (For applicants needing to demonstrate English language proficiency) Take either the
TOEFL iBT (internet based test) or the IELTS test and receive the minimum score: TOEFL
iBT: 90, IELTS: 7.0
- For Fall 2026 admissions we also accept a Duolingo score of 115 and above, and a PET
score of 64 and above.
- (Preferred but not required) Major or minor in Linguistics or a related area.
In addition, the following admission materials required by the department must be submitted electronically through supplemental application, for which the link is sent to you after completing Step 1 (see steps below):
- Statement of purpose (250-500 words) which demonstrates an understanding of the SDSU
program and which shows interest in an area of research that is within the department’s
core expertise (see faculty and their research interests);
- Names and e-mail addresses of two professors who can evaluate the applicant’s academic
potential for success in a rigorous M.A. program. Although we strongly encourage academic
references, non-academic references (e.g., from employers) may be submitted if a significant
amount of time has passed since earning the last degree.
- Unofficial transcripts.
Application Procedure
Applications open October 1, 2025
Step 1: Submit your application through Cal State Apply to receive an SDSU ID (with which you can complete the subsequent steps) as soon as possible, and by no later than February 1, 2026. (An application fee applies with this step.)
Step 2: Submit official transcripts and test scores (if applicable) to Graduate Admissions by February 15, 2026. For more information on how to submit these items, visit the Graduate Admissions page.
Step 3: Submit two letters of recommendation, unofficial transcripts, as well as a statement of purpose via the supplemental application on Slate by no later than February 15, 2026. Within 72 hours of submitting your initial application to Cal State Apply (Step 1), you will receive an email with a personalized link to Slate to submit your supplemental application for Step 3.
The Department of Linguistics strongly encourages applicants to submit a complete
application, including letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose, as early
as possible to receive consideration for highly competitive fellowships. Another benefit
for early applications is that, if accepted before the 2026 Spring semester, you can
sign up for courses through SDSU’s Global Campus and transfer a maximum of 9 units
(3 courses) towards your degree. Please contact your graduate advisor for details.
Contact Us
Eniko Csomay, Graduate Advisor
Email: [email protected] | Phone: (619) 594-3377 | Office: SHW 246
Darlene Bych, Program Coordinator
Email: [email protected] | Phone: (619) 594-1915 | Office: SHW 215
Important Links
SDSU Catalog | Class Schedule | Program Flyer | Graduate Admissions | Graduate Studies