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Graduate Study

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Graduate Study Common Questions

Applying For Admission

What degree or educational requirements are required to apply to RIT's graduate programs?

All applicants to RIT's graduate programs must hold-or currently be completing-a four year baccalaureate degree, or the U.S. equivalent, granted by an accredited college or university.

What is the application fee and how can I make my payment?

The application fee is $50 US dollars. You can pay the fee by Check, Bank Draft, Money Order or Traveler's Check. Make your document payable to Rochester Institute of Technology. Funds must be in US dollars and drawn on a US bank. Checks drawn on foreign banks are acceptable if the face of the check shows the US address of an affiliated US bank.

Visa or MasterCard - Required Information Applicant's full name [no initials]. Date of birth [month, day and year]. 16-digit account number. Expiration date [month and year]. Name of cardholder [owner of the account].

Visa or MasterCard - Payment Options Go to www.rit.edu/grad. Click on 'Apply Online.' Then click on 'Online Payment of Application Fee'' and fill in all required fields.

How will I be notified of an admission decision, and when will I be notified?

The Office of Graduate Enrollment Services will contact you to acknowledge receipt of your application, and tell you if any necessary items are missing from your file. As soon as a decision is made you will receive email notification. The length of time will vary by academic department, but once the application has gone to the academic department for review it typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for a decision to be conveyed to you.

Will photocopies of my academic documents, that have been notarized by an authorized offical in my home country, be considered official?

No. Academic documents (photocopies or originals) must be attested (bearing an original colored stamp and/or signature) by the granting college or university. Unfortunately, we cannot accept notarized documents.

Is an international credential evaluation by an authorized agency a requirement for international students and admission to RIT graduate programs?

If you feel that your academic credentials are not the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree, we recommend an academic credential evaluation to determine the exact U.S. degree equivalency.
Generally, no, an international credential evaluation is NOT required for admission to graduate programs at RIT. However, our office will conduct a review of your academic documents when received and if we DO NOT believe that your educational background is the equivalent of a 4 year U.S. bachelor's degree and a bridge program is not an option or is not agreeable to the applicant, we may suggest that you have your credentials reviewed by one of the agencies listed below.

International Education Research Foundation Inc.
P O Box 6940
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Telephone: (310) 690-6276
Fax: (310) 397-7686

World Education Services
P O Box 1623
Chicage, IL 60611-0523
Telephone: (312) 222-0882
Fax: (312) 222-1217
email: info@wes.org

Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute Inc.
P O Box 6908
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Telephone: (310) 275-3530
Fax: (310) 275-3528

Educational Credentials Evaluators Inc.
P O Box 92970
Milwaukee, WI 53202-0970
Telephone: (414) 289-3412
Fax: (414) 289-3411

What is the application deadline?

For many graduate programs the priority deadline is February 15. The decision for the same is communicated to the applicant in March. Other departments consider applications on a rolling basis for Fall, Winter, Spring or Summer quarters. The decisions for these applicants are communicated 6 to 8 weeks after the application is complete. For more information please refer to http://www.rit.edu/~w-ptgrd/grad_entrance_req.html.

How are admissions decisions made?

Decisions on graduate selection are made by the college offering the program. All applicants will be notified of the admission decision as soon as possible. All credentials are considered in the application decision - transcripts, marksheets, GPA, official test scores (TOEFL, GMAT, GRE), personal statement, and letters of recommendation. In addition, some programs require portfolios, writing samples, and resumes. Work experience is NOT required.

What are the qualifications for entrance?

In general the equivalent of a B average (3.0 on a 4.0 scale), a TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) and 213 (computer-based)for international students, and additional requirements which vary by program and can include: a qualifying exam (GRE/GMAT), a portfolio, a writing sample, resume, and letters of recommendation.

What are my chances of being admitted given my academic background?

As soon as we receive and evaluate your complete application packet we will be able to determine your admissibility to the program. You can contact our office of Graduate Enrollment Services by email, our online chat, or by phone to discuss your application and background. We can provide general information, but not an admission decision.

The program I am considering says that it admits students on a "rolling basis" what does that mean?

Applications for the some of RIT's program are accepted on a rolling basis, which means students can be admitted in any of the 4 academic quarters. There are 4 quarters, 10 weeks in length: Fall (Sept); Winter (Nov); Spring (March); Summer (June).

What is the minimum TOEFL score?

Minimum TOEFL scores vary by program. Most programs require a TOEFL score of 550 or higher (paper-based test) and 213 or higher (computer-based test).

What is the minimum GMAT score?

A minimum GMAT score is not the only criterion for admission to the RIT MBA program. In evaluating an application, the graduate admissions committee pays careful attention to each individual's undergraduate academic record, GMAT score, and personal statement. GMAT test scores range from 200-800. Science majors usually score at least 500 on the GMAT.

What is the minimum GRE score?

Minimum GRE scores vary by program, and not all graduate programs require the GRE for admission. Check with your academic department, or our Office of Graduate Enrollment Services to learn if the GRE is required for your program of study.

What if my GRE or GMAT score is lower than the acceptable range for scores of admitted students?

Admissions decisions are not made solely on GRE or GMAT scores. The scores provide us with another measure of your academic ability, and also gives us a way to evaluate undergraduate preparation from schools with which we may not be familiar. The test score is just one of several possible assessments and is not a criterion by which we accept or reject applicants.

What is RIT's institute code for submission of test scores?

RIT DOES NOT use dept codes for submitting test scores. All test scores should be submitted using the RIT Code - 2760.

What if my test scores do not arrive by the application deadline?

The application review process can start without official copies of your test scores. HOWEVER, we WILL REQUIRE ETS to send us official test scores prior to admission. Please use the RIT code - 2760.

Can I apply to two RIT graduate programs at the same time?

You may only APPLY to one program at a time. You may only PURSUE one program at a time.

If I am not accepted in my first program choice, can I apply to another program?

Yes. After an admission decision has been on your first program choice, you may request in writing that you have your application reviewed for a second program. We recommend you prepare a second statement of educational objectives prior to this review.

Do my references need to use the RIT recommendation forms that are included within the graduate application form?

No. Your references are not required to use the forms. However, please inform your references of the importance of using your full name (as it appears on your graduate application), if they don't use the form. The form is available on line at http://www.rit.edu/~w-ptgrd/grad_admission_int.html#gradapp.

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Costs and Financial Aid

Can I afford RIT?

We feel strongly that no qualified student should refuse to consider RIT because of cost. We offer a full range of traditional financial aid programs and a number of innovative financing plans. Currently, more than 10,000 RIT students receive over $110 million dollars in financial assistance from federal, state, and institutional resources, in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and part-time employment. For more information regarding financial support for graduate students please refer to http://www.rit.edu/~w-ptgrd/financial.html

How much does graduate tuition cost?

$30,174/year $848/credit hour

Are there scholarships for graduate students? How much?

Graduate scholarships and assistantships are awarded to graduate students in most academic departments. Awards are based on academic excellence and English language ability. The amount of the award varies by student and department. Both undergrad and grad students may also apply to work part-time on campus once they arrive at RIT. Most students work 10-20 hours per week, and earn minimum wage.

Is there a separate application form or procedure for applying for scholarships or assistantships?

No, there are not any separate forms for applying for assistantships or scholarships. The graduate application form includes information related to scholarships and assistantships.

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Living on campus

What's the weather like?

The weather in Rochester is varied. It is usually hot and humid from June through September, and cold and snowy from November through March. Other months are moderate in temperature. For more information on living in Rochester, visit http://www.movingtorochester.org.

Is housing available?

RIT offers extended housing facilities through apartments and the RIT Inn & Conference Center. Accommodation is available for approximately 6,400 students (including undergraduates). Visit RIT Housing website at http://finweb.rit.edu/housing/.

Am I guaranteed housing on campus?

RIT's campus housing offers many living options to meet the diverse needs, interests, and backgrounds of RIT students. Matriculated students MUST submit their admission deposit before they can apply for RIT housing.

Can I bring a car to campus?

Yes, you can.

What clubs and organizations are there at RIT?

We currently have 164 active clubs, 10 major student organizations and 26 greek organizations on campus. RIT welcomes and embraces all of its unique, student operated clubs and organizations. Have a look at the list of clubs and organizations.

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Cooperative Education and Career Placement

Will I be able to get a good job after RIT?

RIT graduates find that their employment prospects are bright because career-related work experience is built into their academic programs. Work experience is gained through cooperative education, internships, and field experience. RIT attracts over 1,300 co-op employers nationwide and serves more than 2,600 RIT students each year. Learn more about the Office of Cooperative Education and Career Services at www.rit.edu/co-op/careers.

Am I guaranteed an internship, co-op or practical training work experience during my study?

No, however, RIT's Office of Cooperative Education and Career Services provides job search assistance for all RIT students.

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General Questions about RIT

How big is RIT?

The main campus is about 1,300 acres, and includes 200 buildings spread over 4.8 million sq. ft. It is a coeducational, privately endowed Institute, enrolling more than 15,300 full- and part-time undergraduate and graduate students preparing for technical and professional careers.

Fall 2003 - 2004 Enrollment 15,334 Undergraduate 12,994 Graduate 2,340 Male 10,290 Female 5,044

Is RIT an accredited institution?

Yes, RIT is chartered by the legislature of the State of New York and accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and NY State Education Department, Office of College and University Education.

What's the student-to-faculty ratio?

The student/ faculty ratio is 13:1, and 91 percent of the classes have fewer than 40 students.

What is the difference between a state and a private school?

A state college is public and is primarily funded by the government therefore the cost to the student is lower. On the other hand a private college is funded privately.

What about student diversity?

The RIT student body consists of approximately 10,000 full-time and 2,100 part-time students, including 1,300 international students from 95 different countries. RIT students come from all backgrounds-Whites, Hispanics, Asians, Pacific Islanders, African Americans and others. RIT is also home to the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, the world's first and largest technological college for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The presence of more than 1,150 deaf and hard-of-hearing students on campus adds a social dynamic not found at other colleges.

What is the ratio of female/male students?

For the 2003-2004 academic year there were 10,290 male and 5,044 female students.

How old is RIT?

Founded in 1829 as the Rochester Athenaeum, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) has been a pioneer in career-oriented education and a leader in cooperative education since 1912.

When can I start classes at RIT?

RIT is on a quarter system (not semesters). There are 4 quarters, 10 weeks in length: Fall (Sept); Winter (Nov); Spring (March); Summer (June).

Can I take classes at RIT without being officially admitted to a degree program?

Yes. To take a class at the graduate level on a non-matric status usually requires permission from the dept. To take a class at the undergraduate level on a non-matric status usually requires completion of any pre-requisite OR a professor's approval. In both cases you must wait for the matriculated students to register for classes and then it is open registration for any non-matriculated students.

To view "Schedule of Courses":

Go to the RIT home page - www.rit.edu Click on Guest View (lower right hand corner) Click on Info Center - upper bar - far right. Go to Public Folders Click on Schedule of Courses

How do I sign up for a class as a non-matriculated student?

To sign up/register for an on campus class, see http://www.rit.edu/~966www/pt_class.html and use the pdf course registration form. To register for online courses - see http://online.rit.edu/

What are my communication options for learning more about RIT programs?

You may email us questions for information about graduate programs to gradinfo@rit.edu. You may email us questions for information about undergraduate part-time programs to opes@rit.edu. You can LIVE CHAT (instant messaging) with us during business hours. Go to www.rit.edu/grad and click on the "LIVE CHAT" button in the upper right hand corner of our web page. You will be connected to our office staff immediately - just like making a phone call, but FREE! You can call us at 585-475-2229 or Toll Free at 866-260-3950.

What are the policies related to the required time to complete your degree? Will I need to reapply?

students showing no registration activity within the eight succeeding quarters are considered inactive and must reapply through admissions. There will be no application fee charged. Another consideration is that your program may be out of date. The relevant policy states that no student may graduate under the requirements of a bulletin published more than 7 calendar years prior to the date of graduation. So, you would need to check with the academic department to determine if a different curriculum is currently in place when you are re-accepted into the program. Minimum GRE scores vary by program.

What are immunization requirements for students?

NY State Public  Health Law 2165 requires students attending colleges and universities in New York State to demonstrate proof of immunity against measles, rubella and  mumps.  All students formally admitted into an academic program at RIT  (matriculated), registered for six (6) or more credit hours and born on or  after January 1, 1957 must provide the RIT Student Health Center with proof of  immunity. If no vaccination, proof of positive titer (blood test) or physician  diagnosis of disease is necessary.  Students who do not comply with these  requirements will be withdrawn from their courses.
Requirements  include:

OR

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