University of Utah
Department of Computer Science

Required Application Materials

The following materials are required of ALL applicants to either the M.S. or Ph.D. programs, including those wishing to transfer into the program from another department at the University of Utah:

1. Application Form: Complete and return the University of Utah Application for Admission to Graduate School form, along with the application fee ($50 for domestic applicants, $70 for foreign applicants), to the University of Utah Admissions Office---not to the Department of Computer Science.

2. Grade Reports and Transcripts: In accordance with the instructions on the application form, arrange to have two copies of your transcripts sent to the University Admissions Office directly from the issuing schools. Applicants who have studied at the University of Utah need not request transcripts from there.

3. GRE Aptitude and Advanced Test in Computer Science: All persons interested in applying to the Department of Computer Science at the University of Utah are required to take the GRE General and an appropriate Subject exam and have their scores forwarded to the department. In almost all cases, the subject exam should be in Computer Science. Applicants wishing to submit subject exam scores from a different area should obtain prior approval from the department. Applicants who are deficient in formal computer science courses may request permission to substitute a related advanced test. Students should plan far enough ahead to accommodate this requirement. Specifically, applicants must take the GRE exam sufficiently early to allow their scores to arrive by the application deadline.

4. Letters of Recommendation: Arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent directly to the Department of Computer Science Graduate Coordinator. We strongly prefer that all recommendations be from current or former professors who have a knowledge of the applicant's abilities through classwork, independent study, and/or research. However, a letter from a professional supervisor is acceptable if the supervisor is from a computer-related field and is qualified to judge the academic and technical capabilities, character, and ability of the applicant to perform research. It is helpful if letters for non-native English speakers address the applicant's English skills.

5. Personal Letter: Send a one- to two-page letter to the Department of Computer Science Graduate Coordinator, describing in depth your background, interests, and in particular, your reasons for wanting to pursue graduate studies in computer science at the University of Utah.

6. TOEFL Scores: Applicants whose native language is not English must take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and have the score reported to the University of Utah Admissions Office.

Note for foreign applicants: The University Admissions Office does not process foreign applications that are incomplete. For your own protection, please notify us as soon as you believe your application to be complete, so that we may ensure that the Admissions Office delivers your file promptly. Applicants hold final responsibility in making sure applications are complete. Letters of recommendation and your own personal letter must be written in English.