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Tufts School of Engineering Admissions Process

Tufts University School of Engineering seeks candidates who are independent thinkers, eager to contribute their diverse perspectives, and aspiring to evolve in their careers. When evaluating candidates for our suite of online programs, our admissions committee takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications—considering both an applicant’s academic history and professional experience.

Take the stress out of applying to your graduate or pathway program and explore the application process with the guidance of an enrollment advisor. They’re available to help you assemble and submit your application with confidence. Ready to get started?

Connect with an Enrollment Advisor

No GRE Required
to Apply*

*GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from a U.S. institution.

How to Apply

Master of Science in Computer Science

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors, seniors, or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach For America Corp members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the Pathway to MS in Computer Science (online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science) program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions
2 The Green
Bendetson Hall, Tufts University
Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Three letters of recommendation are required. Current Tufts undergraduate, graduate, and certificate students; alumni of Tufts degree programs; and current students and alumni of Bridge schools are only required to submit two letters. Bridge schools include Lafayette College, Olin College, Smith College, Union College, and Wellesley College.

Recommendation letters should be written, on official letterhead or containing a written signature, by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement which details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Master of Science in Computer Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of
TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean.
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above, prior to submission of the Tufts online Master of Science in Computer Science application.
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above. Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts online Master of Science in Computer Science program.

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duo Lingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (two minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science)

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors, seniors, or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach For America Corp members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science) program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions

2 The Green

Bendetson Hall, Tufts University

Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Certificate: One letter of recommendation is required.

Pathway to MS: Three letters of recommendation are required.

Recommendation letters should be written, on official letterhead or containing a written signature, by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement which details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Pathway to MS in Computer Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean.
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above, prior to submission of the Tufts Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science)  application.
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above. Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science) .

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duo Lingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (2 minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Master of Science in Data Science

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors, seniors, or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach for America Corps members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM Fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited US or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants who voluntarily choose to submit GRE scores should demonstrate a favorable quantitative reasoning score, typically in the 90th percentile or higher.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the online MS in Data Science program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions

2 Bendetson Hall

The Green, Tufts University

Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Three letters of recommendation are required. Current Tufts undergraduate, graduate, and certificate students; alumni of Tufts degree programs; and juniors, seniors, or alumni of bridge schools are only required to submit two letters. Bridge schools include Lafayette College, Olin College, Smith College, Union College, and Wellesley College.

Recommendation letters should be written on official letterhead or containing a written signature by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement that details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Master of Science in Data Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and an overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo Test Scores for Non-Native Speakers of English

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean.
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above, prior to submission of the Tufts online MSDS application.
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above. Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts online MSDS program.

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duolingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (two minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Pathway to MS in Data Science (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Data Science)

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors or seniors or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach For America Corp members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Data Science program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions

2 The Green
Bendetson Hall, Tufts University
Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Certificate Pathway: One letter of recommendation is required.

Pathway to MS: Three letters of recommendation are required.

Recommendation letters should be written on official letterhead or contain a written signature by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement that details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Data Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and an overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above prior to submission of the Tufts online Post-Baccalaureate Data Science Certificate application
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above

Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts online Post-Baccalaureate Data Science Certificate program.

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duo Lingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (two minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Master of Science in Computer Science

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors, seniors, or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach For America Corp members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the Pathway to MS in Computer Science (online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science) program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions
2 The Green
Bendetson Hall, Tufts University
Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Three letters of recommendation are required. Current Tufts undergraduate, graduate, and certificate students; alumni of Tufts degree programs; and current students and alumni of Bridge schools are only required to submit two letters. Bridge schools include Lafayette College, Olin College, Smith College, Union College, and Wellesley College.

Recommendation letters should be written, on official letterhead or containing a written signature, by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement which details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Master of Science in Computer Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of
TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean.
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above, prior to submission of the Tufts online Master of Science in Computer Science application.
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above. Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts online Master of Science in Computer Science program.

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duo Lingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (two minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science)

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors, seniors, or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach For America Corp members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science) program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions

2 The Green

Bendetson Hall, Tufts University

Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Certificate: One letter of recommendation is required.

Pathway to MS: Three letters of recommendation are required.

Recommendation letters should be written, on official letterhead or containing a written signature, by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement which details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Pathway to MS in Computer Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean.
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above, prior to submission of the Tufts Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science)  application.
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above. Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts Pathway to MS in Computer Science (Online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Computer Science) .

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duo Lingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (2 minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Master of Science in Data Science

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors, seniors, or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach for America Corps members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM Fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited US or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants who voluntarily choose to submit GRE scores should demonstrate a favorable quantitative reasoning score, typically in the 90th percentile or higher.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the online MS in Data Science program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions

2 Bendetson Hall

The Green, Tufts University

Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Three letters of recommendation are required. Current Tufts undergraduate, graduate, and certificate students; alumni of Tufts degree programs; and juniors, seniors, or alumni of bridge schools are only required to submit two letters. Bridge schools include Lafayette College, Olin College, Smith College, Union College, and Wellesley College.

Recommendation letters should be written on official letterhead or containing a written signature by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement that details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Master of Science in Data Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and an overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo Test Scores for Non-Native Speakers of English

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean.
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above, prior to submission of the Tufts online MSDS application.
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above. Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts online MSDS program.

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duolingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (two minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Pathway to MS in Data Science (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Data Science)

Access the application. An $85 non-refundable application fee is required.

The application fee is waived for:

  • Current Tufts undergraduate and graduate students
  • Students in Tufts certificate programs applying to a degree program
  • Tufts degree program alumni
  • Current juniors or seniors or alumni of Lafayette College, Olin College, Union College, Smith College, Wellesley College
  • AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers and alumni
  • City Year and Teach For America Corp members and alumni
  • Currently applying GEM fellows
  • Current Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) fellows
  • Current Leadership Alliance Members
  • Current McNair Scholars
  • Currently serving and honorably discharged members of the United States Armed Forces

GRE scores are no longer required for candidates with an undergraduate degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution. GRE scores are required for applicants who don’t have a degree from an accredited U.S. or Canadian institution.

Applicants will be required to upload a copy of transcripts received from each educational institution attended where credit was earned toward an undergraduate, graduate, or professional degree.

Transcripts for study abroad or transfer programs are not required if the course titles, grades, and credit hours are included on the transcript of the degree-granting institution. If the transcript is in a language other than English, an official translation must be provided.

Applicants can upload unofficial transcripts on the Academic History page of the application. If you have trouble uploading the unofficial transcripts, you can email them to: gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Applicants who are offered admission to the online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Data Science program will need to have official, sealed transcripts from all degree-granting institutions sent to the mailing address shown below.

Office of Graduate Admissions

2 The Green
Bendetson Hall, Tufts University
Medford, MA 02155

Applicants may have official e-transcripts emailed to gradadmissions.transcripts@tufts.edu.

Certificate Pathway: One letter of recommendation is required.

Pathway to MS: Three letters of recommendation are required.

Recommendation letters should be written on official letterhead or contain a written signature by someone who can provide a candid and honest assessment of the applicant’s academic background or professional work experience and convey their abilities and character.

Applicants are required to write a personal statement that details their reasons for wanting to pursue their Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Data Science online at Tufts. The personal statement should be limited to five pages (2,500 words).

A résumé or CV must be provided. Please include dates and an overview of academic history, employment, academic honors, scholarships, publications, community involvement, volunteering, internships, and other activities.

Applicants who are non-native English speakers are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test.

You can register for the TOEFL online. Use Tufts University code: 3901. Student copies or photocopies of TOEFL/IELTS scores are not accepted.

Applicants who satisfy one or more of the following conditions are not required to provide a TOEFL/IELTS score:

  • Have citizenship in Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Guyana, an Anglophone country of Africa, or an English-speaking country of the Caribbean
  • Earned a college or university degree in the U.S. or in one of the countries listed above prior to submission of the Tufts online Post-Baccalaureate Data Science Certificate application
  • Are currently enrolled as a full-time student in a U.S. degree-granting program or at an English-speaking school in one of the countries listed above

Applicants must have successfully completed two consecutive full-time academic years of college or university work prior to the date of anticipated enrollment in the Tufts online Post-Baccalaureate Data Science Certificate program.

The minimum required scores are:

  • TOEFL: 90
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • Duo Lingo: 110

We do not require a degree evaluation for transcripts. We only require that the transcript be translated into English by a certified translator, which can include the degree-granting institution.

We are not able to provide F-1 student visas nor the associated Optional Practical Training (OPT) for our online programs. Please visit the Tufts International Center for information about joining a program on campus that may offer these options.

While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a video presentation (two minutes maximum) of their own design, product, or conducted research to demonstrate to the admissions committee their interests and skill sets.

Non-native English speakers are encouraged to submit a digital portfolio to demonstrate their English language skills.

Key Dates & Deadlines

Spring, summer, and fall cohorts are available.

Fall 2025
Early Action Deadline
June 2, 2025 PAST
Priority Submit Deadline
June 23, 2025 PAST
Final Submit Deadline
August 1, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

No, but most successful applicants have a degree in a STEM field with significant math experience.

For the MS in Computer Science, programming experience in languages such as Python, C++, or Java is necessary.

For the MS in Data Science, students should have taken calculus 1 & 2, linear algebra, and statistics with a minimum grade of a B-. Experience with Python is preferred.

There is no minimum GPA required, but our most competitive applicants have over a 3.0. For those with a GPA below a 3.0, an optional statement addressing your undergraduate GPA is recommended.

We apply a holistic approach to our admissions process, and consider undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation, and other application materials when making a decision. Applicants with a strong programming background, coding experience, and an aptitude for math are more competitive.

If you have no programming experience, we recommend you apply to the Pathway to MS in Computer Science (post-baccalaureate certificate) program or the Pathway to MS in Data Science (post-baccalaureate certificate) program. Students who complete either certificate and are in good academic standing are able to transition into the online Master of Science in Computer Science program or the online Master of Science in Data Science program.

No, online students are not eligible for the OPT program.

No, you will receive the same diploma as students who graduate from the on-campus program.

Yes, there are live classes held on Zoom twice a week at 6 p.m. (ET). Students will have the opportunity to interact with faculty members and classmates during this time.

Scholarships are available for Tufts alumni and students from a bridge university.

No, a thesis is not required. Instead, students will complete a capstone project during their final semester.

Students are encouraged to apply to the program modality that best suits their needs. If a switch is necessitated before the start of the program, it will have to be approved by the student’s academic advisor.

It is possible to transfer up to 6 credits. This is determined on a case-by-case basis after a student is admitted.

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