Department of Theoretical and Applied Linguistics
Applying for the MPhil in Theoretical and Applied Linguistics
Who should apply
Applications for the MPhil course are welcomed from those who have or expect to obtain a good first degree (at least a high 2.1 or the equivalent). If you are not a native English speaker we would expect you to have passed an English Language Proficiency test at the required level.The following examinations with minimum scores are accepted: IELTS 7.5 (min 7 in each unit); TOEFL paper-based exam 620 (with min 5 in Test of Written English); where the paper-based test is not available, TOEFL computer mode 260 or iBT110 (with min 5 in essay). No other English language examinations are accepted. Normally students taking the MPhil have spent some time studying linguistics or related subjects at undergraduate level, but, occasionally, exceptions will be considered. Many students move straight into the MPhil after their first degree, but others come to it after a number of years away from formal study.
How to apply
The University of Cambridge Graduate Prospectus provides information on many aspects of postgraduate study at Cambridge, including fees and procedures for applying. The Prospectus, and instructions on how to apply are available on the web. A hard copy can be ordered from here or from:
The Board of Graduate Studies
University of Cambridge
4 Mill Lane
Cambridge CB2 1RZ
Please submit with the application:
A sample of writing on a topic in linguistics (or a topic
closely related to linguistics). The sample can be either an
essay produced during undergraduate studies or a section of a
dissertation, and must be a single-authored work in English. Students who did not read any linguistics before
applying for the MPhil will be considered individually.
All applicants should note the Application Schedule (but we assess applications as we receive them and may close the course to further applications before the stated deadline) and information on the College System.
Information on funding is available on the MML Graduate pages. UK applicants for the MPhil usually seek funding from the AHRC (Arts and Humanities Research Council), or the equivalent sources of grants for postgraduate humanities courses in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Applicants from abroad normally seek funding in their home countries or from the various Trusts and College sources listed in the University of Cambridge Graduate Prospectus.
