Frequently Asked Questions

The answers to most Ph.D. program admissions questions can be found at Cornell Graduate School’s Admissions and Admitted students FAQs. For questions not listed here, please contact us and engage in email dialogue where clarification is needed. These FAQs are informal listings; in the event of conflicts with official publications, those documents govern.

Operations Research FAQs

  • What is the typical length of the Ph.D. program?

    The Ph.D. program normally requires four or five years of study and research.

  • Do I need an undergraduate degree in operations research or information engineering?

    Ph.D. students should have a strong background in engineering, mathematics, computer science, mathematical economics or one of the physical sciences. An undergraduate calculus-based probability course is advisable and students should have some background in computing.

  • Do you accept pre-applications for the Ph.D. program?

    No, we do not pre-screen candidates for admission. You will need to formally apply via the Graduate School’s online application.

  • Does the school offer an M.S. degree in operations research?

    We do not offer an M.S. program. Students admitted directly to our Ph.D. program are awarded a special master’s degree by recommendation of their Special Committee upon passing of the Admission to Candidacy exam, typically taken during the third year of study. We do offer an M.Eng. (non-research) program.

  • When will I learn whether or not I have been admitted?

    Applications are not reviewed until all your transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, application form and test scores have been received. If you apply by the January 5 deadline, decisions will be finalized by April 15.

  • Can I transfer credit from another institution?

    We do not accept transfer credit from other institutions for this program.

  • What are the average GRE scores and GPAs of applicants who are admitted to the Ph.D. program?

    • Undergraduate GPA 3.90/4.00
    • TOEFL iBT110
    • GREV 162
    • GREQ 168
    • GREA 4.28

  • Am I required to serve as a teaching assistant?

    Incoming Ph.D. students who are not supported by fellowships are generally supported by teaching assistantships. All students are encouraged to serve as TAs. TA positions are also available for our summer courses. This is definitely an invaluable experience, especially for a possible academic career.