Application Materials

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.

A nonrefundable fee of $85 per degree must be submitted for each application to graduate degree study at any SUNY campus. You may pay the application fee online with a credit card or e-check.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.