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Academics

How to Apply

Online Information Sessions

Join us virtually here at the University of Chicago for a series of online information sessions designed to highlight our MS and PhD in Data Science programs. Hosted by faculty and staff in the Data Science Institute (DSI), we’ll discuss each track’s unique curriculum, research opportunities, admission requirements, funding, and much, much more.

 

All information sessions for the Fall 2026 cycle have concluded. Check back on our website in the months ahead for details about the Fall 2027 cycle and future information sessions.

 

MS in Data Science (MSDS) Application Requirements

  • Create your applicant portal using our online application
  • Submit transcripts for all previous degrees and coursework completed or in-progress
  • Complete the Candidate Statement, applicants will answer the following prompt:
    • Please discuss your academic and career objectives. Be as specific as you can about the fields in which you plan to study and your particular research interests. Beyond what is apparent from your transcripts, describe your preparation for your proposed program of study, including research projects in which you have participated.
  • Attach an updated resume or CV
  • Submit three (3) letters of recommendation (you can provide contact information for references in the applicant portal)
  • TOEFL or IELTS test scores are only required if needed to meet our English Language Proficiency Requirement

 

PhD in Data Science Application Requirements

  • Create your applicant portal using our online application
  • Complete the Data Science Supplement
    • PhD candidates will be asked to indicate up to three (3) areas of research interest as well as identify three (3) potential faculty advisors with whom you are interested in working with. For a full list of faculty on our Committee on Data Science (CODAS), please click here.
  • Submit transcripts for all previous degrees and coursework completed or in-progress
  • Complete the Candidate Statement, applicants will answer the following prompt:
    • Please discuss your academic and career objectives. Be as specific as you can about the fields in which you plan to study and your particular research interests. Beyond what is apparent from your transcripts, describe your preparation for your proposed program of study, including research projects in which you have participated.
  • Attach an updated resume or CV
  • Submit three (3) letters of recommendation (you can provide contact information for references in the applicant portal)
  • TOEFL or IELTS test scores are only required if needed to meet our English Language Proficiency Requirement

 

Application Fee

There is a $90.00 non-refundable application fee. For all questions regarding fee waivers, please refer to the Physical Sciences Division fee waiver policy.

 

Standardized Test Scores

The Physical Sciences Division (PSD) does not require the GRE or other standardized test scores for admission into the MSDS or PhD programs. Applicants may choose to submit scores if they have already completed a standardized exam but it is not required that you do so.

For those who plan to submit the GRE, please be advised that it will only be considered valid if the exam was taken within five (5) years prior to the application deadline. The Educational Testing Service (ETS) institutional code for the University of Chicago is 1832.

 

Application Deadlines

Below are the deadlines for prospective students applying for our Fall 2026 quarter. Please note that we do not admit candidates in any other term beyond the Fall quarter. All application materials must be submitted by the dates below in order to be considered for admission.

  • PhD in Data Science – December 16, 2025
  • MS in Data Science (MSDS) – February 3, 2026