Graduate Admission Information

This is an archived copy of the 2022-23 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.ndsu.edu.

Graduate Degree and Certificate Application Requirements

Complete the Online Application. The application fee is $35.00. In addition, the application file is complete when all of these items are submitted:  

  1. A Statement of Purpose introduces reasons for pursuing graduate study, specifies special interests within the chosen discipline and includes discussion of relevant skills and experience.  Additional requirements  may be listed on program catalog pages
  2. Submit one official transcript (statement of marks) from each college or university at which you have been enrolled or are currently enrolled. Include both undergraduate and graduate coursework, as well as continuing education credits (if applicable). Official original transcripts (statement of marks) are required to be sent from each institution attended, whether or not a degree was earned, and even if courses were transferred to another university. 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. For more information, visit https://www.ndsu.edu/gradschool/apply.

    A four-year Bachelor’s degree is required to be eligible for graduate admission. Any applicant with a three-year Bachelor’s degree must submit a transcript evaluation to determine eligibility for admission.
  3. Online letters of recommendation are required for graduate degree applicants before action is taken on their application. We do not accept paper, emailed, or faxed letters. Three recommendations are required for unless otherwise noted. 
  4. Standardized tests, such as Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), may be required or recommended by some programs. For more information, visit the program catalog page.
  5. English Language Test Scores from TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or Duolingo are accepted by North Dakota State University (NDSU). Minimum requirements are listed on program catalog pages and the International Graduate Applicants page under “Additional Information”.   .

If applying to another program(s), submit a separate application, statement of purpose, and $35 application fee. Other previously submitted documents may be used for additional applications, please email ndsu.grad.school@ndsu.edu to notify our admissions team.

Current graduate students who wish to add a certificate to their degree program must submit the Request to Add a Certificate to a Graduate Degree form and $35 application fee to apply.

Graduate Application Deadline

 Deadlines vary by program. Before starting your application, visit the program catalog page to find the application deadline. For admission consideration for your intended term, all application materials should be submitted before the deadline.

Action on Applications

Admission of all graduate students requires approval by the Graduate College. All applicants who have submitted the required application materials will receive notification of their admission decision by email.