Master Of Arts - English

Academic Requirements

The Master of Arts in English program at Carleton University has specific Academic Requirements that prospective students must meet to be considered for enrollment. Below are the key requirements:

• Minimum GPA: A four-year Bachelor of Arts, or the equivalent, in English, with at least a B+ average.
• Application Package: Each application must include the following:
  • Application form
  • Original transcripts
  • Two letters of reference
  • Statement of interest
  • Academic writing sample
• Statement of Interest: This should articulate a proposed area of research for the MA thesis or research essay, explaining how the applicant will conduct an organized study of a defined scholarly topic. The statement should be between 250 to 500 words (1-2 pages).
• Writing Sample: A pdf of a writing sample from an undergraduate course is required. The sample must include the instructor’s name and course details, and should ideally be your best example of writing, ranging from 1500 to 3000 words (6 to 12 pages).
• References: A complete application must include two references.

It is important to note that possession of the minimum entrance standing does not guarantee admission into the program. All applications will be carefully considered by the Graduate Committee.

For international students, it is advised to apply as soon as possible. The deadline to submit a complete application, including referee letters, and to be considered for available funding is February 1. Applicants should ensure that references are received by this deadline.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

The language of instruction at Carleton is English. For admission into Carleton’s graduate programs, you will need to demonstrate that your knowledge and use of English are strong enough for graduate studies at an English-language university.

If your first language is not English, you can demonstrate your language proficiency by:

• Presenting one of the official Language Proficiency (ESL) test scores as defined in the table below;
• Showing that you have completed ESLA 1900 or ESLA 1905 at Carleton University with a final grade of B- or higher; or
• Presenting official certification (transcripts) that you have completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at a university in any country in which the primary language is English, where the language of instruction in the relevant educational institution was English, and the language of instruction in their most recently completed undergraduate or graduate degree was English.

Applicants who present their most recent degree and transcripts from a Canadian institution are exempt from language proficiency requirements, unless otherwise required by an individual program.

Note: Letters from your universities stating the medium of instruction is English are not acceptable.

Minimum Language Proficiency (ESL) test score requirement:

* IELTS One-Skill Retake is accepted

TOEFL MyBest Scores is accepted

Please note that some graduate programs may require a higher level of understanding of the English language and will have higher ESL requirements. It is your responsibility to review and meet the minimum requirements of the program to which you are applying. The Graduate Studies reserves the right to require further documentation or additional testing if they feel it necessary to demonstrate the required level of English language proficiency.

Carleton University is committed to ensuring that all students have fair access to English Language testing, including those students who require accommodations to complete the test. All tests accepted by Graduate Studies offer accommodations to students who require it, including but not limited to students with disabilities, and nursing mothers. Please note that arranging accommodations for an ESL test may take up to six weeks.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.