Doctor of Philosophy - Educational Studies

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies at the University of Prince Edward Island, candidates must meet the following admission criteria:

• Academic Standing: Candidates must demonstrate high academic standing, typically requiring a first-class standing (e.g., a minimum academic average of 80%, or A-, or a GPA of 3.7) in a Master's program conferred by an accredited university. Students with Pass grades must request that former professors complete a narrative assessment form to confirm first-class standing equivalence and potential for admission to a PhD program.
• Research Experience: A Master's thesis is required. Alternatively, an equivalent research report such as a Master's project or a substantial research-focused technical report authored solely by the applicant may also be considered.
• Professional Experience: Evidence of a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in a field deemed relevant to educational studies is necessary.
• Statement of Intent: Prospective students must complete a Statement of Intent as part of their application materials.

All applications are assessed on a competitive basis, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Due to the nature of the program, deferral of admission is typically not possible. While the Faculty of Education aims to provide some financial support to admitted candidates, students should be prepared to fully self-finance their tuition and living costs in PEI, as funding is not guaranteed.

International students are encouraged to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding the application process.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

The application opens on July 1, and the deadline for application has been extended to February 1 for a Fall 2025 start. All application documents and materials must be received no later than January 15 of the year for which admission is sought.

Language Requirements for Graduate Programs

At the University of Prince Edward Island, demonstrating proficiency in the English language is a crucial requirement for all academically admissible applicants, regardless of their country of origin or citizenship status. This requirement ensures that students can successfully engage with the language of instruction, which is English. Proficiency can be demonstrated in two ways:

1. Possession of a degree or its academic equivalent from an institution recognized by the University of Prince Edward Island, where the language of instruction is English. Proof that the instruction for the degree was in English may be required and will be confirmed by the UPEI Registrar’s Office.
2. A satisfactory score on one of the following approved English language examinations:

* Applicants meeting this requirement may be offered a conditional admission offer, which requires the prospective student to provide updated English language test results satisfying the minimum Unconditional English Language Proficiency requirements before being permitted to enroll in Graduate level courses or participate in Graduate program activity.

Prospective students with a conditional offer of admission for English language proficiency conditions must submit their updated test results by the following deadlines:

• Admitted to a Summer Semester Start – April 1
• Admitted to a Fall Semester Start – August 1
• Admitted to a Winter Semester Start – December 1

Any exam should have been written within the last two years. If not written in the last two years, students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

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.