University of Massachusetts - Computer Science
 
 

Application to the Graduate Program

Application materials should be sent directly to the Graduate Admissions Office (not to the Computer Science Department, which would only delay processing).

Deadline Information

The full-time graduate program admission deadline is December 15 for Fall enrollment. Our full-time graduate program does not offer Spring admission. We also do not offer online and part time Graduate Programs at this time.

Application Materials

All Students are required to submit the following:

  • Online Application and Application Fee
  • Personal Statement
  • Transcripts
  • 2 Letters of Recommendation (cover sheet can be found here)
  • Official GRE Scores (ETS University Code is 3917, there is no Dept. Code)
  • TOEFL Scores- (click here for exemption information)

We strongly recommend that all students submit required materials to the Graduate Admissions Office one month earlier than the deadline to ensure appropriate consideration.

Although application files are started when credentials are received, you can expedite the processing of your graduate application by making sure that your application is submitted to the Graduate Admissions Office before requesting that transcripts, GRE scores and two letters of recommendation are sent.

Ensure that all credentials, especially "older" transcripts, have your name in the same form as it appears on your application. If you are a foreign student, it helps to underline your family name for easy filing.

Standardized Test Scores

Although the University of Massachusetts requires official GRE and TOEFL score reports, the Graduate School is willing to accept certified or notarized copies of these reports when foreign exchange creates a financial burden on the applicant.

GRE

  • The GRE test is required. The subject test is strongly encouraged by the Computer Science Department
  • Although standardized tests are by no means the only criteria considered, historically successful applicants average 600+ in each of the three areas (verbal, quantitative, analytical)
  • GRE's can be retaken. Your new score will be added to the old score you've previously submitted. Both scores will be included in your application.
  • If your GRE General Test scores are older than five years from your anticipated date of entrance, you must retake the examination. Waivers of this policy will not be granted.

TOEFL/TWE

  • The TOEFL is required for foreign students. This is a University Graduate School requirement. Applicants who do not score 600 or above on the paper test; 250 ore above on the computer-based test; or an 80 or above in the iBT are not encouraged to apply.
  • The Computer Science Department requires that all international applicants submitting a TOEFL score also submit a TWE (Test of Written English) score. If a student has taken the iBT TOEFL, the TWE is already included and does not have to be taken.
  • TOEFL may be waived if the applicant has attended on a full-time basis an American college or university for a period of at least two academic years immediately preceding anticipated entrance date.
  • TOEFL scores are valid for 2 years from expected entrance date.
  • Be sure to have your TOEFL score (or a copy of the results) sent to the Graduate Admissions Office as soon as possible. The ETS University code is 3917, there is no Dept. code.

Please note: Although not required, Computer Science strongly encourages applicants to submit the TSE score.

Application Fee

The Graduate Admissions Office cannot consider any application for admission to the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, unless that application is accompanied by the required fee.

United States Citizens: A waiver of this fee is available only to those U.S. citizens who are currently enrolled as full-time undergraduate students and who have qualified for a waiver of the GRE fee through their undergraduate financial aid office. A statement from a college or university financial aid officer attesting to receipt of, or eligibility for, the GRE fee waiver must accompany the application.

Foreign applicants: Submission of the application processing fee is required. Neither this Department, nor the Graduate Admissions Office, has any authority to waive or defer this fee under any circumstance.

Please make sure that your application fee check is securely attached to your application. Remember, your application will not be processed if the fee is not enclosed.