Is there a foreign language requirement?There is no requirement, but demonstrated learning of another language is desirable.
| Does the program have a rolling admissions policy? | No. We accept students for fall admission only. Our application deadline is January 15th of the year which one intends to enroll. It is always a good idea to submit your application as early as possible. |
| Is the TOEFL required of all international applicants? | The TOEFL is required of all international students who did not receive their Master’s degree from a U.S. institution. The Graduate School can waive this requirement with input from the LLC Program Director. |
| Who should write my letters of recommendation? | It is important that some references be from individuals familiar with your academic performance, both past and present, if possible. However, some references should be recent and may include those from employers, volunteer coordinators, etc. It is possible to submit more than three references, but at least three are required before an application can be considered complete and reviewed by the Admissions Committee. |
| I am a UMBC graduate. Do I need to submit an official UMBC transcript to complete my LLC application? | Official transcripts are needed to complete the LLC application unless you graduated from UMBC. You may attach your unofficial UMBC transcript to your application. |
| What kinds of writing are appropriate for the writing sample? | Paper(s) should reflect an applicant’s scholarly thinking and demonstrate your ability to conduct and write about research in your chosen area. Please provide a cover note explaining what the writing sample is and its relevance to your application. |
| Can I apply any of my previous credits towards an LLC Ph.D.? | Students may be allowed to utilize up to two courses taken prior to matriculation in the LLC Program. These cannot have counted towards a prior degree. However, requests will not be considered until the introductory required courses have been completed and the student has narrowed down their research focus. |
| How likely is it to receive financial aid, a graduate assistantship, tuition remission or a scholarship/fellowship? | A limited number of graduate assistantships are offered on an annual basis at UMBC, including some through the LLC Program. They include a stipend, tuition remission, and health benefits. Please indicate your need for funding in your application. Governmental financial aid is available to US citizens only. Visit the financial aid website for more information.(http://financialaid.umbc.edu/graduate/) Scholarship/fellowship information is available online and at public and university libraries. International students are encouraged to visit the website of the National Association of Foreign Student Advisors for scholarship/fellowship information. |
| What are the technology requirements for the Program? | Students must have access to an electronic device to successfully complete digital assignments and a dissertation. In addition, they need to be able to access the internet, be able to utilize video-based and file-sharing tools, and have access to a camera and sound. Camera use is preferred but not required for online classes. |