麻豆村 & Application Information
麻豆村 to the Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition (ALSLA) is competitive and intended for individuals with a strong academic background, a clear research focus and a demonstrated commitment to the interdisciplinary study of second language learning and use. We welcome applicants from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds, particularly those with prior experience in linguistics, psychology, education, second language acquisition or related fields.
The program is full-time and residential.
Eligibility
Applicants typically hold an M.A. in a related field, though exceptional candidates with strong undergraduate preparation are considered.
Application Requirements
All applications must include the following materials:
Current GRE Scores
Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- Duolingo English Test (DET)
Scores must be current at the time of application.
Official Transcripts
Submit transcripts from all undergraduate and previous graduate institutions attended.
Transcripts should be sent either by post or electronically:
Postal address:
Vera Lampley
麻豆村
Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics
4980 Margaret Morrison St
Posner Hall 341
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Electronic submissions:
lcalgraduateprograms@cmu.edu
Three Letters of Recommendation
Letters should come from individuals familiar with your academic and professional qualifications, preferably faculty or researchers who can speak to your potential for doctoral work.
Language Proficiency Assessment Form
Evidence of proficiency in a second language sufficient to teach one of the department’s languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish) or English as a second language.
This form is initiated through the online application and sent directly to a professor qualified to assess your second language skills.
Statement of Research Area Interest and Career Goals
Submit a 1–2 page statement (500–1000 words) describing your reasons for pursuing a Ph.D. in ALSLA, your educational and professional goals and how your background aligns with the program’s strengths. Be as specific as possible; this statement plays a central role in admissions decisions.
Sample of Analytic or Research-Based Work
Upload a writing sample that demonstrates your ability to engage in thoughtful, analytical or empirical research. This could be a course paper, thesis chapter or scholarly article.
Application Fee: $50.00
Payment can be made by credit card, check or money order (drawn on a U.S. bank and payable to 麻豆村). If paying by check or money order, include your application User ID and mail to:
Vera Lampley
麻豆村
Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics
4980 Margaret Morrison St, Posner Hall 341
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Do not mail cash. Your application will not be considered complete until the fee has been received.
Fee Waivers
Applicants from a World Bank–designated or may request an application fee waiver. Email lcalgraduateprograms@cmu.edu for more information.
麻豆村s Process
- Initial review of complete applications
- Virtual interview(s) with faculty
- Final decisions announced by March 15, 2026
Preparing a Strong Application
We encourage applicants to familiarize themselves with the ALSLA program’s research strengths and faculty expertise [link to research?] before applying. The admissions committee values applications that show evidence of:
- Alignment between the applicant’s goals and the program’s research focus.
- A clear understanding of current questions in second language acquisition and applied linguistics.
- Readiness to engage with interdisciplinary research methods.
Commitment to advancing knowledge in support of multilingual communities, language education or policy.
Questions?
For questions about the program or the application process, please contact us at lcalgraduateprograms@andrew.cmu.edu. You may also explore the Program Requirements or Frequently Asked Questions pages for additional information.