How to Apply: International Systems Engineering Students

International Student Application Deadlines

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

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

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At a Glance

Delivery

Hybrid

Online

Locations Offered

  • UMBC Campus (Catonsville)

Programs Offered

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Admission Requirements:

All students need to meet the following minimum requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems or related discipline.*
  • 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.
  • GRE scores are not required for admission
  • English proficiency scores (Exceptions to English Proficiency Requirement):
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores: 99
      • iBT Scores Breakdown: Writing (23), Listening (23), Reading (25), Speaking (28, 23 acceptable if have 2 years’ work experience in supervisory or management positions in the U.S.)
    • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores: Minimum score 7.0
    • Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic scores: 68
    • Duolingo English test: Minimum score 130
    • 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: Systems Engineering (MS)

  • Apply online
    • Select proposed program Systems Engineering >>  Degree Code – Master’s
    • 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. Put N/A in third line)
    • 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.
  • Submit resume as an attachment in the “Resume” section or submit to gradschool@umbc.edu.
  • Request for TOEFL scores to be sent by ETS to UMBC (code 5835)

All documents should be mailed to:

UMBC Graduate School, Systems Engineering
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 SYST
  • 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.

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