Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What address should I use when sending overnight or express packages?
    All applications and materials should be submitted online. However, if something must be mailed, please address it to:

    Connie Herold, Ph.D. Program Manager
    Carnegie Mellon University
    Wean Hall 5116
    5000 Forbes Avenue
    Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3891
    USA

  2. May I send GMAT scores instead of GRE?
    The GRE general (or aptitude) test is required, but upon special request, GMAT scores may be used instead of GRE scores. A request to substitute GMAT scores for GRE scores must be made in writing, along with an explanation as to why the GMAT scores are more appropriate to your objectives and background. This should be included in your application. The GRE computer science subject test is not required, although your application may become stronger by including it.
  3. Do I have to take a GRE Subject test?
    The GRE computer science subject test is not required, though it is recommended and may improve your chances of being accepted.
  4. Am I permitted to send the transcripts and recommendation letters along with my application?
    No. All application material and letters of recommendation must be submitted online through the SCS website.
  5. Should I apply?
    The decision to accept a student is complicated and the applications are looked at as a whole package with research experience and recommendation letters bearing on the decision to accept a student along with test scores and transcripts.

    While the Ph.D. Program in COS is a new program, we expect our accepted students will all have a GPA of 3.85 or higher and their GRE scores will generally be in the 80th percentile and above for Quantitative and Verbal. High scores in Analytical Writing are also required. For foreign students we would like to see a TOEFL score of 100 or above to make sure the student will be able to communicate with faculty and students. With this information in mind you can make your decision of whether to apply.

  6. What about Financial Aid?
    Ph.D. students in COS receive full tuition and a monthly living expense stipend.
  7. What kind of knowledge are incoming students expected to have?
    The general prerequisites for incoming students are:
    • Evidence of proficiency in computer science at an undergraduate level with emphasis on software or hardware systems.
    • Evidence of intellectual ability to succeed in a rigorous, high-quality doctoral program, primarily demonstrated through transcripts and standardized test scores (such as GREs).
    • Intense desire to explore the computational problems within a complex real-world system of people, organizations, and policies. This should be demonstrated by your statement of purpose, practical experience, background and/or real-world experience.
  8. What kind of background do admitted students have?
    Students come from a broad variety of backgrounds nad exhibited capabilities in both computer science and a social, policy, or management science. Illustrative undergraduate degrees include:
    • biology
    • business management
    • computer science
    • economics
    • information systems
    • physics
    • policy
    • statistics
    • computational sociology
    • mathematics
  9. If I am a foreign student and have a degree from a U.S. university, do I still need to take the TOEFL?
    Yes. All foreign students must take the TOEFL.