MLing not offered in 2025

The Master of Linguistics programme—including the PGDipLing and PGCertLing—won’t be accepting new entrants in 2025. But we are hoping to open the programme again in 2026.

An alternative to the MLing is the Master of Applied Linguistics. If you choose this programme, you have the option of taking the Directed Research in Linguistics course (LING 420, 30pts) with one of our Linguistics staff members.

If you have any questions about studying Linguistics with us, email one of our future student advisers at info@vuw.ac.nz.

Find out who to contact for more information about the Master of Linguistics and how to apply.

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Master of Linguistics

Entry requirements

Requirements for international students who studied in

To be accepted into this programme you will need:

  • A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Linguistics with at least a B average

  • To be accepted by the Programme Director as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.

Alternative entry path

  • If you have a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related subject, as determined by the Programme Director, there is an alternative entry path to the MLing programme. You first need to get a B+ or higher grade in LALS 401, which runs in Trimester 3. The points from LALS 401 will then count towards the 180 points of the MLing.

Important information

  • If you want to enrol in this programme but don’t meet some of the entry requirements, you should contact the programme director to discuss your options.
  • For more programme details and requirements, see the University Calendar. It’s an annual publication and an authoritative source for planning your degree.

Key dates

If you are studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington for the first time, or moving from the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) to degree study, you must attend International Orientation and Enrolment prior to the start of your programme. Make sure you check the orientation dates for your programme.

Estimated international fees for

How to apply as an international student

Before you apply, make sure you can meet the entry requirements and cover your fees and costs. It’s free to apply. You’ll only need to pay tuition fees once you have confirmed that you will study here.

1. Check key dates and apply early

You can start applying at any time, but there is an application deadline for each trimester.

2. Prepare your documentation

As part of your application, you’ll need to provide:
  • a certified copy of your passport (the personal details page)
  • evidence of your proficiency in English (if required)
  • a certified copy of your official academic results
  • a curriculum vitae (CV)
  • a document explaining what you hope to gain from the programme and why you think you should be accepted.
See our Prepare your documents page to find out more about requirements for your application documents.

3. Apply now

4. Wait for confirmation

We’ll send you an email, usually within a week, to confirm we’ve received your application.

If you are accepted to study, we’ll email you an Offer of Place that guarantees you entry to your chosen programme. In some cases your Offer may have conditions that need to be met before your entry is guaranteed. We’ll then tell you what you need to do next.

If you don’t receive a confirmation email within two weeks of submitting your application, or if it’s been more than four weeks since you were notified that your application was received, contact us.

If you want to start planning your study, find out what you need to do to get ready to study in Wellington.

Other programmes

Postgraduate Diploma in Linguistics

Postgraduate Certificate in Linguistics

Programme contacts

As an international student, you should contact Wellington University International with any questions about studying at this university. Wellington University International will also process your application. If you have a query about programme or course content, you can contact one of the academic or school staff below

Victoria Chen, Programme director

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