General Admission FAQs
WHAT IS YOUR APPLICATION DEADLINE?
The deadline to apply for admission to the data science Ph.D. program in Fall 2025 is February 1, 2025.
DO YOU HAVE ROLLING ADMISSIONS?
No, the Ph.D. program does not have rolling admissions. Applications are reviewed based on a specific deadline, and decisions are made after that deadline. Please check the program’s website for exact dates and further details.
CAN THE PROGRAM WAIVE THE APPLICATION FEE?
No, the fee is collected by the Graduate School to cover processing costs. The charge is a nonrefundable, nontransferable application processing fee.
$75 USD for U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents
$85 USD for International Applicants
DO YOU OFFER A DISTANCE LEARNING DEGREE OR A PART-TIME PROGRAM?
We do not offer a distance learning option for the data science Ph.D. program. Self-motivated and dedicated part-time students may be admitted to the program. Part-time students typically complete the program in 6-8 years.
WHAT TESTS DO YOU REQUIRE?
You may need to take the following tests depending on your situation.
The GRE is required for all applicants unless they hold a terminal degree (JD, PhD, MD) or they have earned a degree from an accredited US institution with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or above, or a graduate GPA of 3.5 or better.
An English Language Assessment is required for those whose first language is not English. The test can be waived if the applicant has earned a degree from an approved English-speaking institution. Applicants who do not meet these requirements must submit official scores from one of the three assessments: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
DO YOU HAVE A MINIMUM TEST SCORE?
Yes, minimum test score requirements vary by test:
English Language Assessments:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 83
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5
Duolingo: Minimum score of 115
For the GRE, there are no specific minimum scores set, but competitive scores are encouraged.
WHAT ARE THE FACULTY LOOKING FOR IN APPLICANTS?
Faculty typically look for applicants who demonstrate:
Strong academic background: Solid performance in relevant coursework, especially in data science, statistics, mathematics, and related fields.
Research potential: Previous research experience, publications, or projects that show the ability to contribute to the field.
Relevant skills: Proficiency in programming, data analysis, machine learning, and other data science tools.
Motivation and goals: A clear statement of purpose that outlines your research interests, career goals, and how the program aligns with them.
DO I NEED A MASTER’S DEGREE BEFORE APPLYING?
No, a master’s degree is not required to apply for the Ph.D. program. Applicants with a strong academic background, relevant experience, and a bachelor’s degree are eligible to apply. However, a master’s degree in a related field may strengthen your application.
DOES THE PROGRAM OFFER FINANCIAL AID? ARE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ELIGIBLE?
Yes, the Ph.D. program offers financial aid in the form of assistantships to some selective admitted students. International students are also eligible for these assistantships. Financial aid availability may vary based on merit and funding resources.
For more information, on Financial Aid.
I’D LIKE TO INTERVIEW BEFORE I APPLY. MAY I MEET WITH FACULTY?
While formal interviews are typically part of the admissions process after application submission, prospective students are welcome to reach out to faculty members to discuss their research interests and fit with the program. Faculty availability for meetings may vary.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE DURATION OF THE PROGRAM?
The average duration of the Ph.D. program is:
Full-Time: 4-5 years
Part-Time: 6-8 years
The exact duration may vary depending on the student’s progress and research.