Welcome to the Swanson School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh! We're excited to help you take the next step in your academic journey. Below, you'll find a guide to our graduate admissions process and minimum requirements, designed to make navigating your application as smooth as possible. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or are ready to apply, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Review Our Graduate Program Options
Your Path to Admission: Minimum Requirements
Graduates of an ABET-accredited engineering program are typically eligible for admission based on their undergraduate academic performance. Students from non ABET-accredited institutions are also considered and we evaluate the duration of primary, secondary, and university education, the nature of the institution(s) attended, the system of grading in that institution, and to recommend admission or rejection.
- Minimum GPA: Applicants should have a cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0* (B average) or higher. However, specific programs may have additional or higher requirements, so it is important to review the criteria for the program you are interested in.
*For applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA requirement, consideration will be given on an individual basis. Factors such as academic potential, career goals, relevant work experience, and preparation in engineering or related disciplines will be strongly emphasized. In certain cases, provisional admission may be offered, contingent upon the fulfillment of specific coursework or academic achievement requirements.
Your Journey Begins: The Application Process
- Step 1: Application Submission
To apply to the Swanson School of Engineering’s graduate programs, start by completing the online application form. To review your program’s deadline requirements, please visit this website.
- Step 2: Letters of Reference
You must submit letters of reference electronically through the online application portal. Each department has specific requirements. Visit our Recommendations page for more information about number of recommendations required, how to submit your electronic letters with your application, or checking the status of your submitted letters.
- Step 3: Transcripts
You are required to upload academic records from all post-secondary institutions you have attended. If your records are in a language other than English, include a certified English translation. These initial uploads will be considered unofficial. Upon admission, official transcripts will be required.
- Step 4: GRE (Optional)
Submitting GRE scores is optional. If you believe your scores reflect your academic ability, you may submit them using the institution code 2927. GRE scores will not influence the admissions decision for the current application cycle.
- Step 5: English Language Proficiency (For International Applicants Only)
International applicants must submit valid English language proficiency test scores with their application. The requirement to take TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo may be waived if the applicant has received a degree from an accredited institution in the United States or has citizenship in a country where English is the official language.
In addition, incoming international students are recommended to enroll in ESL courses when their English Proficiency test scores are above the minimum for admission, but below a certain threshold.- Step 6: Tuition and Fees
Learn about the costs associated with graduate education at Swanson School:
- Step 7: Funding & Scholarship Opportunities
Funding and teaching and research assistantships are determined at the Department Level. Explore options for scholarships, fellowships, and grants to support your education.
Ensure you meet the specific funding deadlines for full consideration.
The Swanson School of Engineering offers a limited number of highly competitive teaching and research assistantships primarily at the PhD level. Funding can potentially cover tuition costs and include a living stipend.
Appointment opportunities include:
- Fellowships - awarded to students of outstanding ability. The funding is usually an unrestricted grant.
- Traineeships - awarded to students for training in selected areas. There may be restrictions on the courses that may be taken.
- Teaching Assistantships and Teaching Fellowships - awarded to exceptionally well-prepared students in return for assistance in laboratories, recitation sections, and other teaching duties. Partial or full tuition scholarships are also provided.
- Research Assistantships - awarded to students for assistance on research programs.
Visit the funding and financial aid website for more information on funding and scholarship opportunities for PhD/MS students.
- Step 8: Application Deadlines
Please review the deadlines for your intended program to ensure your application is submitted on time:
- Step 9: Additional Application Notes
- Electronic Submissions: Do not send hard copies of materials already submitted online.
- Original Documents: Only required upon admission and your decision to attend.
If you have any questions about the admissions process, feel free to contact our graduate admissions team. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
