M.Eng. Student Admission FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply to an M.Eng. program for the Spring semester?

Some, but not all, M.Eng. programs accept applications for Spring admission. Check individual program pages for information.

How many graduate fields or programs can I apply to?

At any point in time, you may submit only one graduate application to Cornell for consideration. Where indicated on your application, you may list a second-choice field of study or program. If you do not receive an offer of admission from your first-choice program, you may request for your application to be forwarded to your second-choice program

Do I need a B.S. in engineering to apply to an M.Eng. program?

Although a strong technical foundation is essential, it is possible to meet the pre-requisites for many M.Eng. programs without an undergraduate degree in engineering. Contact the specific M.Eng. program or visit their website for further information on admissions requirements.

Do I have to take the TOEFL, and what are the minimum scores for this test?

As an international applicant, you must demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam. For exceptions and minimum requirements, please see the M.Eng. Application Guide.

How much does it cost to attend the Master of Engineering program?

Cornell Master of Engineering students are subject to the Tier 1 Master’s degree tuition rate. See the Office of the Bursar for current M.Eng. tuition and fees.

How do I get financial aid for the M.Eng. Degree?

As a professional graduate degree, the M.Eng. is self-funded. Cornell does not provide need-based financial aid for M.Eng. students. A limited number of M.Eng. students may be awarded Graduate Teaching Research Specialist (GTRS) positions by their admitting programs. Most GTRS positions entail half-time duties and a stipend equivalent to half of the PhD stipend. Please see the Paying for Your Degree webpage to learn more.

What is early admission to the M.Eng. program?

Early Admission is a pathway available only to Cornell undergraduates. It is an opportunity to begin M.Eng. coursework during the final undergraduate semester. See the Early Admission page for more details and eligibility requirements.

What career services does Cornell provide to M.Eng. students?

In addition to the University-wide Cornell Career Services, the College of Engineering has dedicated M.Eng. Career Services staff to support M.Eng. students. Offerings include: one-on-one career advising, strategies for leveraging the Cornell alumni network, small and large group events, and a variety of online resources. A wide array of employers, representing every industry, recruit Cornell engineering students. Career fairs, employer information sessions, and professional development workshops are offered both on campus and virtually throughout the year. Visit the M.Eng. Career Services page for more information.

What is the deadline for applying to the M.Eng. program?

Deadlines vary by program, and some offer rolling admission. Visit the individual program pages to learn about deadline dates, notification dates, and other information.

How can I get an Application Fee Waiver?

Application fee waivers are generally not available for M.Eng. applicants. Financial hardship waivers are available for domestic applicants who are able to prove they are in exceptional circumstances. To apply for a financial hardship waiver, you will need to provide a brief but well-reasoned explanation of how the application fee presents a financial hardship for you. Relevant factors include unemployment or underemployment, the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) from a recent FAFSA, etc. Use the fee waiver request page of the application form to submit your explanation.