Eligibility Requirements for Yale University MS in Computer Science

To apply for the Master of Science in Computer Science at Yale University, students must meet several academic and language proficiency benchmarks. The program seeks candidates with a strong quantitative background and research potential.


Most successful applicants have excellent undergraduate grades, competitive GRE scores, and proof of English proficiency if applicable. Here's a detailed look at the eligibility criteria for Yale University's MS program.



  • Bachelor’s Degree: Required in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field

  • GPA: No official cutoff, but competitive applicants usually have a GPA ≥ 3.5

  • GRE: Mandatory; average scores: Quant ~166, Verbal ~162 (90th percentile range)

  • TOEFL / IELTS: TOEFL iBT preferred score ≥100 or IELTS Academic; mandatory for non-native speakers

  • English Proficiency Waiver: Available if undergrad degree (3+ years) was fully taught in English


  • Applicants to Yale University should also ensure all documents, including transcripts and test scores, are submitted by the January 2 deadline for the Fall intake.

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    Test Scores Requirement

    ExamRequirement

    Program Eligibility URL:https://gsas.yale.edu/admissions/phdmasters-application-process

    About Yale University

    Yale University is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in New Haven, Connecticut. Known for its academic excellence, Yale offers globally recognized graduate programs, including a competitive MS in Computer Science. The university combines rigorous research, interdisciplinary learning, and a strong global alumni network to prepare students for top careers in tech and academia.

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    Yale University MS in Computer Science Program Description

    The MS in Computer Science at Yale University is a research-focused graduate program designed for students with a strong background in computing. It offers two tracks: a one-year non-thesis option and a two-year thesis-based option with teaching fellowship opportunities.


    The curriculum emphasizes advanced topics such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, systems, and computational theory. Students also have the flexibility to pursue specializations like Bioinformatics or Computing & the Arts. Graduates are well-prepared for PhD programs or high-impact roles in industry and research.

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    Program URL:https://cpsc.yale.edu/academics/graduate-program/master-science

    Yale University MS in Computer Science Program Curriculum

    Yale University MS in Computer Science Fee Structure

    Yale University maintains a transparent and detailed fee structure for its graduate programs. For the 2024–2025 academic year, full‑time master’s students at Yale University pay $49,500 per year (or $24,750 per term) for tuition. In addition, there is a Continuous Registration Fee of $820 per term, which covers administrative costs. Health insurance is mandatory, with hospitalization/specialty coverage costing $3,110 annually.


    For students enrolled part‑time, tuition is $12,375 per half‑time term, and one-quarter time is $6,187.50. Yale University does not charge additional common fees like library, gym, or technology, making its fee structure predictable and straightforward.



  • Tuition (full-time) : $49,500 per year ($24,750/term)

  • Continuous Registration Fee: $820 per term 

  • Health Insurance (hospitalization) : $3,110 per year 

  • Tuition (half-time) : $12,375 per term 

  • Tuition (quarter-time) : $6,187.50 per term

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    Yale University MS in Computer Science Alumni Info


  • Julie Dorsey – Pioneer in computer graphics and co-founder of Mental Canvas; professor of CS at Yale

  • Dana Angluin – Renowned for her work in computational learning theory (e.g., L* algorithm); Yale CS professor emerita 

  • P. Anandan – Former MS graduate who later became a leader in computer vision and co-founder of Microsoft Research India

  • Ravindran Kannan – Yale adjunct professor and recipient of the prestigious Knuth Prize in theoretical computer science

  • Jaime Teevan – Yale CS alum and influential AI researcher; now a leading executive at Microsoft Research

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    Letter of Recommendation for Yale University MS in Computer Science


  • Number Required: 3 letters, preferably from individuals who know you well—such as professors, research supervisors, or workplace mentors 

  • Content Suggestions: Highlight your academic abilities, research potential, and readiness for graduate work .
    Strong letters often place you in the “top 3%” of students they've taught or worked with academia.stackexchange.com.

  • Submission Process: Recommendators receive an online link to submit their letter—no paper or email attachments accepted. Letters are accepted after your application is submitted, but should be sent promptly to meet review deadlines 

  • Choosing Recommenders: A brief meeting to discuss your goals and provide a CV or SOP draft can help them write more personalized, impactful letters 

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    Statement of Purpose for Yale University MS in Computer Science


  • Please upload a statement of 500–1000 words explaining why you are applying to Yale for graduate study. Describe your research interests and preparation for your intended field(s) of study… Explain how the faculty, research, and resources at Yale would contribute to your future goals.

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    Yale University MS in Computer Science Scholarships available for International Students


  • Need-Blind Admissions: Yale operates a need-blind admissions policy that applies equally to U.S. and international students . Although this primarily benefits undergraduates, graduate applicants may also request need-based financial aid, which is assessed based on household income and ability to pay.

  • 2. Departmental & Fellowship Awards
    While there are no standard merit-based scholarships specifically for the MS CS program, many international students receive support through fellowships or teaching roles—especially in the two-year, thesis track, where teaching fellowships include tuition waivers 

  • 3. Engineering-School Scholarships
    Within Yale’s Engineering School, international students may access need-based scholarships and Yale International Loans. Some merit-based awards (e.g., in forestry or environmental sciences) provide a model of internal funding practices.

  • Broader University Fellowships
    Admitted students are encouraged to explore University-wide grants through Yale’s Student Grants Database. The GSAS office offers funding opportunities such as the Fox International Fellowship.

  •  External Fellowships
    Highly competitive external awards—such as the Fulbright, Hertz, or Henry Fellowships—are open to outstanding international applicants.

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    What makes Yale University MS in Computer Science unique?


  • Ivy League Reputation: Globally recognized for academic excellence and prestige.

  • Flexible MS Tracks: Offers both 1-year and 2-year options with or without thesis.

  • Teaching Fellowship Opportunities: 2-year students receive tuition waivers and stipends.

  • Interdisciplinary Learning: Options to combine CS with bioinformatics, arts, and more.

  • Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Personalized mentorship and close research collaboration.

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    Yale University MS in Computer Science Contact Information

    Whom should I contact in case of any doubts?


    • Department: Computer Science, Yale School of Engineering & Applied Science

    • Email: lexie.broytman@yale.edu

    • Phone: +1 (203) 432‑1246

    • School Website: https://engineering.yale.edu

    • Program Page: MS in Computer Science

    • Mailing Address:
      P.O. Box 208285,
      New Haven, CT 06520, USA

    • Shipping Address:
      51 Prospect Street,
      New Haven, CT 06511, USA

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      Conclusion: Should you apply to Yale University MS in Computer Science?

      Yes—if you're looking for a prestigious, research-focused program with flexible tracks, strong faculty, and global career value. Yale University offers excellent opportunities, especially for students aiming for PhDs or top tech roles. It's a competitive but rewarding choice.

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