How to Apply: International Data Science Students

International Student Application Deadlines

Spring 2025: October 15, 2024
Fall 2025: May 1, 2025

The following information is provided for international applicants interested in applying to the Masters of Professional Studies in Data Science. International applicants should read the information provided carefully prior to applying. 

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At a Glance

Locations Offered

  • UMBC Campus (Catonsville)
  • Shady Grove (Rockville)

Programs Offered

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International Student Admission Requirements

Please note that all international applications for the Data Science program are due:
May 1 for each fall semester
October 1 for each spring semester. Spring 2025 deadline extended to October 15

All students need to meet the following minimum requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree in any subject*
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale, or equivalent. Applicants with grades on a scale other than 4.0, will be evaluated based on standards for the country of their degree
  • Candidates without previous post-secondary education in calculus, statistics, or basic programming should take these courses at a university or community college before submitting an application
  • The Data Science program does not accept online courses (e.g., Coursera, MOOCs, edX) in fulfillment of the prerequisite requirements.
  • GRE scores are not required for admission.
  • English proficiency scores (Exceptions to English Proficiency Requirement):
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores: 90 iBT
      • No section may have a score less than 22
    • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores: Minimum sum of section scores: 27.5
      • No section may have a score less than 6.5
    • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic scores: 61
    • Duolingo English test: Minimum score 120
    • Scores must be less than 2 years old.

*If you have a three-year degree versus a four-year degree, your transcript will be reviewed to determine whether you have met the necessary pre-requisites for the program. Eligibility for admission can only be determined upon receipt of a complete application.

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Contact Information

Application Process

All international applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to allow sufficient time to receive all the necessary documents and to process and assess the application. International applications are accepted for the fall and spring semester. We encourage all international applicants to send in their documents at least six months prior to the start of the semester for which they are applying. To apply, complete a Graduate Degree Application and use program name: Data Science (MPS)

  • Apply online
    • Select program Data Science >> Degree Code – Master’sThis program has an option between campus locations. You may choose to apply to the Main UMBC Campus, or the Shady Grove campus located in Rockville, MD. Please indicate which campus location you want to take classes at on the Program Specific section of the application.
    • Submit your statement of goals as an attachment in the “Personal Statement” section
    • Insert names of references into “References” section (Note: we only require two)
    • Complete residency information
  • Request official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions to be sent to UMBC Graduate School, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250 or emailed to gradschool@umbc.edu
  • Request for english proficiency scores must be sent by the Testing Center. UMBC code: 5835.

All documents should be mailed to:

UMBC Graduate School, MPS: Data Science
1000 Hilltop Circle
Baltimore, MD 21250 U.S.A.

Your application packet should include the following documents:

  • Completed graduate degree application (including residency form). Use program code: PRST-DATA
  • Two letters of recommendation (if you choose to forego the online option, please see the printable form)
  • Personal statement outlining the student’s goals and expectations of the program. Statement should include applicant’s background, qualifications, career experience, and any additional pertinent information
  • Current resume
  • Official transcript(s) from each college & university attended
  • TOEFL or other English Language test scores* forwarded to UMBC by ETS – UMBC’s institutional code is 5835
  • Application fee ($50 online)

*Please note: All international students are required to submit English Language scores unless you hold an undergraduate degree from a U.S. institution or hold a degree from an English-speaking country on the list of exceptions.

Obtaining Immigration Documents

If you intend to apply for an F-1 visa and require an I-20 from UMBC, you will be required to provide a copy of a valid passport and proof of financial support. Please refer to the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) page on I-20 Information and Financial Requirements for more information. All immigration related questions should be addressed to OISS through a Help ticket.

Financial Aid/Tuition/Assistantships

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