How to Apply
Fall 2026 applications are due January 31, 2026.
General Eligibility Requirements
Prospective students must apply online through Texas A&M University’s GraduateCAS. You need to create an account and select the appropriate MSDS fall deadline from the Add Program list. We are not currently offering intake for spring semesters.
The MSDS program is open to students from all majors and experience backgrounds. There are general eligibility requirements and additional requirements specifically for the degree track you are applying to (see our Application Guide for more details on track-specific requirements).
Math and Statistics Proficiency
Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, or a similar degree program with a strong focus on computational research, analytics, machine learning, and coding.
Programming Language Proficiency
Applicants must have a beginner’s to intermediate understanding of
at least one programming language (R, MatLab, Python, C++, SQL, Java, etc.). College of Engineering tracks expect higher-level programming proficiency
Communication and Project Skills
Applications benefit from showing strong technical writing and project management skills. For international students, low English scores on the GRE verbal or TOEFL exams (e.g., less than 100 on the iBT) greatly reduce the chances for admission.
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, or similar fields generally have a sufficient background.
Application Requirements
Complete all four quadrants: Personal Information, Academic History, Supporting Information, and Program Materials.
- Statement of Purpose: Applicants should submit a statement of purpose to describe the reasons for pursuing graduate study, academic and professional interests and goals, and experiences preparing for graduate study. Submit it in the Program Materials quadrant of GraduateCAS under Documents.
- CV/Resume: The CV/resume should outline the work history, educational background, relevant publications and patents, and research experience, and also include a section about the relevant courses taken and associated grades. Submit it in the Supporting Information quadrant of GraduateCAS under Documents.
- Transcript: Submit a non-official transcript in the Academic History quadrant of GraduateCAS. Official transcripts are required only if you are admitted and intend to enroll.
- Three Recommendation Letters: Provide the contact information of your referees in the Program Materials quadrant of GraduateCAS under Recommendations. An email request will automatically be sent to each referee on your behalf.
- GRE (optional): You can self-report GRE scores in the Academic History quadrant of GraduateCAS under Standardized Tests. However, the GRE requirement is waived for all applicants for Fall 2026 admissions.
- TOEFL and other language requirements: International applicants must have a satisfactory score on the TOEFL or IELTS exams. For the English language proficiency requirement by the University, see International Graduate – Admissions (tamu.edu). You can self-report standardized test scores or report tests planned to take in the Academic History quadrant of GraduateCAS under Standardized Tests. Official scores must be sent directly from the testing service; the institution code for Texas A&M University is 6003.
- Other supporting documents (optional): If you have publications or other documents that may show your qualification for the program, you may submit them as additional materials in the Program Materials quadrant of GraduateCAS under Documents.
- Application fee: Lastly, the application fee is nonrefundable and must be paid at the time of submission.
Review and Acceptance
Offer letters will be sent out as the committee makes its decision. This communication will be sent to the email address you provided on your application.
Tuition and Fees
For information about tuition and estimated costs, please visit the university’s Student Business Services website.
FAQ
Which track should I apply to?
Applicants are encouraged to play to their strengths by applying to the track that most closely aligns with the disciplinary background of their bachelor’s degree. Because admitted students are required to take 3 or more electives from their track department, admissions staff assess applicants’ preparation to succeed in the electives of their chosen track.
Can you select multiple tracks during the application?
The application allows you to choose one preference.
How is the track that I follow reflected in my final diploma when I graduate?
Graduates in the ECEN and CSCE tracks are recorded as graduating from the College of Engineering.
Graduates in the STAT and MATH tracks are recorded as graduating from the College of Arts & Sciences.
Does the program accept 3-year Bachelor’s degrees from international universities?
You can check to see if specific international BS degrees are considered equivalent to a four (4) year bachelor’s degree by consulting the list of International Students – Admissions (tamu.edu) provided by the Office of Admissions. If you do not see your country listed, you will need to contact the university Admissions Office directly at admissions@tamu.edu.
Are there funding opportunities available to international students?
Yes, funding opportunities can be found on the Graduate and Professional Studies webpage.
What types of jobs do MSDS graduates typically go into?
Graduates have a wide range of career options and can enter various roles, such as data analyst, business analytics specialist, and statistical analyst in different industries. Many industries use data science, including energy, medicine, and logistics.
Is there a word limit on the statement of purpose?
No, there is no minimum or maximum word limit; however, the average SOP is 1-1.5 pages.
When can I expect a decision to be made regarding my application?
The application review process will begin soon after the January deadline.
Can I receive an application fee waiver?
While we are sensitive to the expenses incurred during higher education pursuits, we do not award application fee waivers. The university uses these fees to support and uphold our exceptional standards of education.
What English proficiency exams are accepted?
Citizens from non-English speaking countries are required to submit proof of English proficiency to be eligible for review. Find more information on the International Graduate – Admissions page.
How do you choose a particular degree track in the program?
The choice of a track is primarily based on personal interest or past experience. For example, you might choose the computer science track if you have a computer science background.
What is the GPA requirement for applying?
There is no minimum GPA requirement, but a competitive applicant typically has around a 3.5 GPA.