Eligibility | Department of Computer Science (2024)

Strong candidates will be expected to submit the following materials:

1. A bachelor’s degree in computer science from a regionally accredited institution with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Other degrees may be considered (particularly in related fields such as electrical engineering, computer engineering or mathematics), however, applicants who do not hold a degree in computer science should have prior coursework or experience equivalent to the following UT Computer Science undergraduate courses:

• Discrete Math for Computer Science (CS 311)
• Introduction to Programming (CS 312)
• Data Structures (CS 314)
• Algorithms and Complexity (CS 331)
• Computer Organization and Architecture (CS 429)
• Principles of Computer Systems (CS 439)

Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis. If you have evidence of gaining content knowledge on these subjects through a course or through work experience, please detail that in your CV and personal statement.

2. Official Transcript. Within 48 hours of the submission of your application, you will receive an email from the Graduate and International Admissions Center directing you to theMyStatuspage where you will be asked to upload your transcripts. Please do not mail these credentials. For additional information regarding the submission of transcripts to UT-Austin, please seehttps://gradschool.utexas.edu/how-to-apply.

3. Official Test Scores (GRE, TOEFL/IELTS)

• GRE General Test scores
  • There is no minimum GRE test score, however applicants admitted to the UT Computer Science graduate program usually have high quantitative GRE scores and a math background that includes study through some discrete math.
  • The GRE cannot be waived.
• TOEFLorIELTSscore for international applicants*
  • The minimum scores considered acceptable for admission by the Graduate School are:
    • TOEFL: 79 on the Internet-based test (iBT)
    • IELTS: An overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination

*International applicants who are from a country where English is the only official language are exempt from this requirement. Additionally, applicants are exempt from the requirement if they possess a bachelor's degree from a U.S. institution or an institution in a country where English is the only official language. The requirement is not waived for applicants who have earned a master's - but not a bachelor's degree from a similar institution.

4. Optional: CV, Personal Statement and up to three letters of recommendation.