Ph.D. in Computer Science

The Department of Computer Science does not require that applicants hold a bachelor's degree in Computer Science. However, applicants are expected to have a strong background in Computer Science.
A suitable background would include courses in the following core areas:

• Data Structures
• Discrete Mathematics
• Assembly Language and Computer Organization
• Programming in a procedural language such as C, C#, C++, or Java.

Applicants are also expected to have taken several (but not necessarily all) courses in specialized areas:

• Operating Systems
• Programming Languages
• Algorithms
• Compilers
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Networks
• Automata and Formal Languages
• Software Engineering

A year of college-level Calculus is also required. In general, experience gained working is not considered equivalent to successful completion of the courses listed above.

There is no minimum GPA required for admission. However, most applicants who are offered admission to our program have a GPA of at least 3.3 (out of 4.0). The grades in Computer Science, mathematics and related courses are more important than the overall GPA.

If possible, letters of references should be written by faculty at a university previously attended. Letters of reference from Computer Science faculty are preferred, but references from employers are welcome. References should pay particular attention to academic achievements and evidence of independent, creative problem solving.

Please visit the Engineering Graduate Admissions FAQ page under the Standardized Tests section. 

Applications are evaluated based on the following factors:

• Background in Computer Science (including project work)
• Grade Point Average (GPA)
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• Letters of reference
• Personal statement
• TOEFL/IELTS scores

Applications are evaluated in their entirety. A weakness in one factor might be mitigated by strength in another.

Please visit this Web page to apply.

Application Deadlines for Fall 2026:    

• PhD: December 15, 2025
• MCS: January 30, 2026 

*program will accept applications to this degree after the posted deadline, but full consideration for placement into the program is not guaranteed for late applicants and may lower the probability you will receive funding. Please refer to the program’s MCS deadline for the final date an application will be considered. For additional information, please contact the Graduate Admissions Director or Graduate Coordinator.

Visit the Engineering Graduate Admissions page for details. 

International students must have an outstanding command of the English language in order to enroll at the University of Virginia. The TOEFL/IELTS exam is required of all applicants if the language first learned and spoken in the home is not English, and they are not permanent residents. However, TOEFL/IELTS is not required if the applicant has received a 4-year degree at an English-speaking institution (whether or not the institution is in the U.S.). (If the applicant has a 4-year degree from a non-English-speaking institution and a Master's degree from an English-speaking institution, TOEFL/IELTS is still required.) It is unusual that we offer admission to an applicant with an overall TOEFL score below 90 / IELTS below 6.5. 

The minimum internet-based (iBT) TOEFL score requirement is 90 (including sectional minimums of 20 in speaking, 20 in writing, 20 in reading and 20 in listening). The minimum paper-based TOEFL score requirement is 600. The minimum IELTS score requirement is 6.5 in each section.

Official scores are only needed after acceptance and upon matriculation. During the admissions process unofficial, self-reported scores suffice. 

GRE: The Institution code for School of Engineering and Applied Science of the University of Virginia for the GRE is 5820.

TOEFL/IELTS scores: The code for TOEFL is B875. There is not a specific code for the Department of Computer Science. 

Official Transcripts: 

Submit your official transcript prior to the start of the semester or at the latest by mid Semester (early October). 

Electronic official transcripts can be sent directly to gseasadmission@virginia.edu.

Official transcripts can also be sent as a paper transcript in an envelope sealed and signed by the University Registrar. However, we advise to send official transcripts electronically. 

For US Postal:  
Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Science Admissions  
P.O. Box 401103  
Charlottesville, VA 22904  

For UPS/FEDEX/DHL:  
ATTN: Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Science Admissions  
Room 232  
1001 North Emmett Street  
Charlottesville, VA 22903  

Once the application is submitted, we are unable to delete or replace items in your package; however, you are able to upload additional items and include them in the area for ‘supplementary materials'. We recommend including a line at the top of the newly uploaded document referencing the update.  

The section titled 'Upload Materials' in Application Portal says: 

If you have an updated document or unofficial test score report to submit, please upload it here. If you uploaded a document in the application, it has been received. Only documents that are available for upload after submission are listed as received below. NOTE: The admission office cannot guarantee that documents uploaded after the application has been submitted will be reviewed. 

Yes! For program/degree specific questions, please send an email to cs-office@virginia.edu. For application support and specific questions regarding the application process, please contact: Central Graduate Admissions gseasadmission@virginia.edu 434-243-0209