PhD and Research MS FAQ

We do not preview an applicant’s qualifications or make pre-application admission decisions based on inquiries from applicants.  Our webpage provides the average scores of recently admitted students so that applicants can make informed decisions as to whether or not to apply.  Our graduate program is very competitive.  QPA, and GRE scores are one, but not the sole, important factor in admission decisions.

PhD and research (thesis) MS applications must be received by December 1, to be considered for enrollment the following Fall semester (students wishing to begin in the Spring semester may defer their enrollment to then, if admitted). Applicants to the professional (non-thesis) MS program may submit applications by December  1 for Fall term admission, or by June 1 for Spring term admission. 

Applications should be completed and submitted online. Materials that cannot be included may be mailed to the Swanson School of Engineering, Administration Office, Room 151 Benedum Hall, Pittsburgh, PA  15261.

No.

In addition to the regular application material, international students are also required to submit the International Graduate Student Supplemental Application Packet and are encouraged to submit all application materials well in advance of the normal application deadlines.

TOEFL or IELTS scores (Required for international applicants): Internationals applicants are required to submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo with their application, except those whose native language is English or those who have recently received a degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or any other English-speaking country. Please view minimum scores for admission and additional information about the English Language Proficiency Exam. 

The Department Code for submitting GRE and TOEFL scores is 1603, and the Institution Code is 2927.

While the vast majority of applicants have a BS in an engineering field, a key factor is the applicant’s research interests and how their background prepares them for that area, and matching them with particular faculty members in our program.  We will consider applicants with non-engineering backgrounds whose degrees are in the physical or life sciences.  However, if admitted, such students normally require additional course work to make up deficits in their bioengineering background.

In order to pursue a PhD, you need to apply and be admitted to the PhD program. You can earn a MS degree along the way if you decide after matriculating that you want to do that.  Alternately, if you apply for the MS and decide after matriculating that you want to continue on for a PhD, you can apply to the PhD program.

Due to the large number of international applications received, many of which need to be processed and entered into the database manually, the Apply Yourself website may indicate that your materials and scores have not yet been received. While the volume of applications received precludes us from responding to every individual query on the status of your application, please be assured that the website will be updated and your application for admission will be considered.