Graduate Program FAQ

Q: May I apply to the Ph. D. program without first having completed an M. S.?

A: Yes, students who are interested in the Ph. D. program should apply directly to that program.

Q: What are the criteria for admission?

A: Please see the respective pages for [[Master Degree Program|M.S.]] and [[Doctoral Degree Program|Ph.D.]] programs.

Q: What are the minimum GRE/TOEFL/GPA scores that will be considered?

A: Please see the respective pages for [[Master Degree Program|M.S.]] and [[Doctoral Degree Program|Ph.D.]] programs.

Q: When will my application be reviewed for admission?

A. Applications are reviewed as they are received. Depending on the time of year, it takes approximately one month to process an application. However, once the application deadline has passed, applications will be reviewed somewhat more quickly.

Q: How many students are normally accepted into each program? What is the rate of acceptance?

A: There is no a priori limit/acceptance rate. Applicants are accepted/rejected based upon their credentials.

Q: Is it necessary to take the Computer Science GRE Subject Exam?

A: No, but if you do take it, please report your score to us as it may enhance your chances for admission and financial aid.

Q: What should I do if my complete transcripts are not available by the application deadline?

A: We expect this to be the case for all continuing students. You should submit the most up-to-date transcripts available along with a list of courses you are currently enrolled in. If admitted, it will be contingent upon providing a completed transcript once you arrive.

Q: How do I apply for financial aid?

You do not need to formally apply for financial aid. All accepted applicants are automatically considered for financial aid.

Q: Are M. S. students eligible for financial aid?

There are no Teaching or Research Assistantships available for M. S. applicants, but Minimum Duties Assistantships are available. Please see [[Financial Aid and Expenses]] for more information.

Q: Are international students eligible for financial aid?

A: Yes. International and domestic students are evaluated using the same standards.

Q: How important is it to identify research interests in the personal statement which accompanies by application?

A: This is very important as it will determine which faculty advisor you will be assigned and how you are considered for financial aid. However, it is acceptable to have interests in more than one area (but probably not appropriate to be interested in all areas).

Q: Before or during the application process, should I contact faculty members whose research interests align with mine?

A: You may contact faculty to learn more information about their research. Once admitted we will assign you a specific faculty advisor whose research interests are closest to those you have indicated on your application.

Note: You should not ask individual faculty members for financial aid or send them a detailed resume as such e-mail is considered as spam. Financial aid is coordinated through the department, not individual faculty members.