How to Apply to the Graduate Program

Submit your application for the Master of Science in Computer Science and Systems using the UW Graduate School's online system.  Review all admissions requirements and our Frequently Asked Questions prior to completing your application.

The MSCSS program admits students for autumn quarter, then for spring on a space-available basis. Complete applications received by the priority deadline will be assured of a review. Contact us at uwtech@uw.edu for permission to apply after a deadline has passed or for questions relating to admissions.

Your application will be reviewed for admission once all materials have been received. Do not mail any information to the Institute of Technology or the Graduate School.

1. UW Graduate School Application

   Complete the Application for Admission to the UW Graduate School is online and submit the $75 fee using a credit card. Once the fee is submitted, you will not have access to make any changes.

2. Application to the Master of Science in Computer Science and Systems Program

   The MCSS application allows applicants to share additional information about their education, training and work experience.

3. Personal Statement

   Your personal statement should discuss your interest in the field of computer science and any areas of specialization. Here are five steps to follow when writing a personal statement.

4. Resume

   Please submit your current resume online.

5. Transcripts
   • Upload one transcript from each post-secondary school you have attended. The Graduate School in Seattle will require an official transcript for degree verification after you have accepted an offer of admission.
   • If you list additional classes that you have taken (post-graduate courses), you must also provide us with official transcripts to support this work.
   • You may use the free, online gpa calculator provided by WES to convert your gpa to a 4.0 scale: http://www.wes.org/students/igpacalc.asp
6. Graduate Record Exam (GRE)

   The GRE general exam is required for all applicants. The test must have been taken within the last five years. Request that ETS send your scores directly to the University of Washington at code 4854.

   Visit the GRE website to learn more about the test and to find a testing center near you. Please notify the Graduate School at uwgrad@uw.edu if your scores are missing and you took the test under an alternate spelling of your name (ie last and first name are switched). Competitive applicants score in the top percentiles for quantitative and mid-percentiles for verbal.

7. Recommendations

   Three online letters of recommendation are required.  You provide the recommender's name, e-mail address and phone number, then our system will send an e-form to your recommender. Paper copies are not preferred but may be sent to the Institute of Technology if the online form cannot be completed. Do not send letters to the Graduate School.

International applicants

In addition to the application materials listed above, international applicants must provide proof of English Proficiency. All UW applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency with documentation verifying that the medium of instruction for their bachelor's degree was English or by achieving the minimum scores on an approved English exam.

Request a brochure about the MSCSS program.