Application Materials

Here we provide a detailed list of documents to include in your online application packet.

Application Form

All domestic and international students must apply online for the MS or PhD program. Please note that the online application process will require you to upload supporting documents.

Application Fee

A non-refundable application fee of $85 must be submitted for each graduate application before it will be reviewed. You can pay the application fee in your Application Status Portal via credit card. The link to pay your application fee will appear shortly after you submit your application. If you have an issue with your application fee, please contact gradeng@buffalo.edu.

We do not offer application fee waivers for our programs. Only US Military/Veterans and their spouses and participants in special programs such as Americorps, McNair Scholars, EOP, HEOP, SEEK, or Project 1000 are eligible for an application fee waiver. Program participants must also be a US citizen or permanent resident. There are no exceptions. If you are eligible and requesting a waiver, please contact gradeng@buffalo.edu with documentation of your military service or program participation.

Personal Statement

As part of the application, the department requires a statement of purpose briefly describing your background and your academic and career goals. The online application provides a space for you to type your personal statement.

College Transcripts

Copies of transcript(s) for all post-secondary schoolwork must be uploaded with the online application for initial review. Upon the offer of admission, accepted applicants will be required to submit official transcripts and proof of degree(s), in English, with the school seal.

Letters of Recommendation

For PhD applicants, three (3) letters of recommendation are required. For MS applicants and UB undergraduates, two (2) letters of recommendation are required.  The letters should be requested through the online application by providing the recommenders' names and e-mail addresses. While we will accept letters from professional sources, we strongly prefer letters from professors who are acquainted with your academic interests, achievements, and abilities. 

GRE Scores

CSE requires GRE for MS applications. The GRE is not required to apply to the PhD program. Current UB undergraduates can have the GRE waived for the MS.

English Language Proficiency Requirements (for International Students only)

In addition to meeting the standard academic criteria for the program to which you are applying, international applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency.  All international students must take one of the tests indicated here and meet the university minimum score requirement.

UB CSE Application

Provide your scores to UB CSE by using Institution Code 2925 and Department Code 78.

A competitive TOEFL iBT score for our programs is at least 90.

We strongly recommend that you make arrangements to take the test early in the year so ETS has sufficient time to report your results to us prior to our application deadline.

Financial Form (for International Students only)

Fill out the International Applicant Financial Form. You will need to fill out the form labeled "Standard Graduate" for the appropriate academic year. (Please verify current year's financial requirement with the Office of Financial Aid). The Financial Form and supporting bank documents may be uploaded to your application after an admissions decision has been made. 

All international applicants must submit a completed financial statement. Answer all questions thoroughly. An I-20 cannot be issued without this statement documenting necessary funds for each year of intended study (two years for a master's program; five years for a PhD program).

Please note that original financial documents must be brought to the school in person upon arrival at UB or orientation.

About the Authors