Before beginning your graduate school application, review all NDSU and program admission requirements.
Graduate School Admissions Policies
Admission Requirements
Admission to the College of Graduate and Interdisciplinary Studies (Graduate College) is a selective process intended to identify applicants who are outstanding among recipients of baccalaureate degrees. The following minimum qualifications are required of all students seeking an advanced degree:
- The applicant must have a baccalaureate degree from an educational institution of recognized standing.
- Applicants still completing a baccalaureate degree may apply.
- The applicant must have adequate preparation in the chosen field of study and must show potential to undertake advanced study and research as evidenced by academic performance and experience.
- At the baccalaureate level, the applicant must have earned a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0, or equivalent, to attain full standing in a graduate degree program. Applicants whose last degree completed is a graduate degree may be admitted in full standing if the final GPA of that degree is at least 3.0 or equivalent.
Program Specific Requirements and Deadlines
Each program may set higher qualifications and may require the submission of additional evidence of academic performance. Program Deadlines
Application Requirements
All degree and certificate seeking applicants must submit the following to complete the application process. Additional application requirements on how to apply can be found on the Apply to Graduate School page.
- Online Application for Graduate Admission
- Current graduate students adding a graduate certificate may submit the Request to Add a Certificate to a Graduate Degree form and $35 application fee to apply.
- $35 application fee
- Official transcripts
- Non-degree applicants are not required to submit transcripts.
- When a transcript is submitted in advance of completion of either undergraduate or graduate studies, an updated transcript showing all course credits, grades, and degree completions must be provided prior to initial registration at NDSU.
- Additional materials such as recommendations, writing samples, and standardized test scores are required by some programs. Visit program pages for details.
Please Note: Once received, all application materials become the property of North Dakota State University's Graduate School and will not be returned.
English Language Proficiency
All graduate applicants, regardless of citizenship or residency, must demonstrate proficiency with the English language before they will be considered for admission to a graduate program.
This requirement may be met by applicants who have:
- Been raised in a recognized country where English is the only official language. A list of exempt countries is found on the International Student and Study Abroad Services website.
- Earned a bachelor's degree or higher from a recognized institution in a recognized country where English is the only official language.
- Achieved a satisfactory TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), or Duolingo score. The test date must be within two years of the date of the application to the Graduate College. Minimum scores required:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): 71 (internet-based)
- Duolingo: 105 (internet-based)
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.0 (academic version)
Please note that applicants meeting the criteria above may need to contact the Graduate College to ensure their exemption from the test of English proficiency requirement.
Applying to Multiple Programs
To apply for additional programs, a separate application and $35 fee are required for each. Other previously submitted documents may be used for additional applications, please email ndsu.grad.school@ndsu.edu to notify our admissions team.
If it has been more than two years since your previous application was submitted, you must also request three new online letters of recommendation, new test scores, if required, and any new transcripts. If you wish to change the program you are applying to after you have submitted the application form, you must complete a new application.
Fraudulent Records
Any transcripts, certificates, translations, or examination results that appear irregular will be verified with the appropriate school or examination authorities, and the application process will be delayed until verification is received. If it is determined that an applicant has submitted false records or omitted information about previous school attendance, his/her application will be denied, and legal action may be taken.
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Apply to NDSU Graduate School
Are you ready to take the next step in your educational career? Review the application process and apply today.
International Students
Learn more about the process for applying to NDSU as an international student, as well as the specific materials and tests required for admission.