FAQ: Graduate Programs

Graduate Programs | Undergraduates Seeking Foreign Language Licensure |  ESL Added Endorsement Program K-12

Thank you for your interest in our graduate programs.  There are three graduate degrees that we offer: the PhD, the MA, and the MAT.  Please see their individual pages for more program-specific information; this page offers general responses to questions that we often get about the application process.

How do I apply?
Complete the application and submit all supporting documentation, available at the Admissions Office (find your degree listed under "Teaching and Learning" - "Foreign Language and ESL Education.")

How do I apply if I am an international student?
Information for International Students can be found at the International Student Office.

How much is tuition?
Information on tuition and fees can be found at the Office of the Registrar.

How do I find out more about Financial Aid?
For most forms of Financial Aid, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid. 

How do I find out more about Graduate Assistantships?
If you are accepted to the program, you will be assigned an adviser in our program who can help you with this information.  You will also be sent information about Graduate Assistantships with your acceptance materials.

Whom should I ask to write my letters of recommendation?
Three letters are required. It is recommended that two letters come from previous and/or current professors who can evaluate your work on an academic and professional basis. The third letter could come from an employer.  Please note that we strongly recommend that references write a narrative letter to accompany the checklist provided by the university.

What is the difference between the M.A. and the M.A.T.?
The M.A. program is designed for students who would like to pursue professional development in Foreign Language Education. The M.A.T. program is designed for students who have had few or no professional education courses. Successful completion of the M.A.T. program leads to elementary and/or secondary teacher licensure.

Where do I find out more information about the city of Iowa City?
To find out more about the community, visit the Iowa City/Coralville Visitors Bureau.

How do I find out about housing in Iowa City?
The Information Desk at the Iowa Union offers a collection of available housing opportunities and a free phone to make appointments. The campus newspaper, The Daily Iowan, and the University offer online listings.

Can the program be altered to meet my personal interests?
The M.A. and Ph.D. programs have built-in areas that can be personalized to meet the research interests of the graduate student. The general requirements of the programs have been approved by the University of Iowa, the Graduate College and the State of Iowa. Adjustments to the programs will only be accepted with approval of an adviser.