How to Apply to Graduate School at CUNY: Steps, Eligibility, Funding, and Deadlines

Overview CUNY offers graduate programs across its 15 colleges. Prospective students are encouraged to explore programs early, attend information sessions, and follow a series of documented steps before submitting an application. Eligibility The source does not list a single set of eligibility criteria for all programs. In general, applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree and meet any program‑specific GPA or prerequisite coursework requirements. Minimum GPA is often cited as 3.0, but this can vary. International students must provide English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE) and may need document translation. Application Steps 1. Identify programs of interest using the CUNY graduate program search. 2. Attend an information session or open house. 3. Review admission requirements and deadlines for each program. 4. Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges. 5. Secure 2‑3 letters of recommendation, ideally from academic or professional contacts. 6. Prepare and submit any required standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, etc.). 7. For international applicants, arrange external evaluation or translation of documents, which can take several months. 8. Draft a personal statement and other essays, beginning at least three months before the deadline. 9. Complete the online application and submit all supporting materials. Standardized Tests Required tests differ by program. Common exams include GRE, GMAT, LSAT, NYS Teacher Certification tests, and TOEFL for non‑native English speakers. Applicants should schedule tests five to six months before the application deadline to allow time for score reporting and possible retakes. Personal Statement Programs may ask specific questions or provide open prompts. Writing should begin three months prior to submission to allow for feedback and revision. Letters of Recommendation Two or more letters are typically required. Applicants should contact potential recommenders at least one month before the deadline and provide them with a personal statement draft for context. Transcripts Official transcripts must be sent directly from each institution’s registrar. Some programs may require a minimum GPA of 3.0 and specific prerequisite courses. Non‑degree coursework can be used to satisfy prerequisites but does not count toward the graduate degree. Funding and Financial Aid CUNY’s Office of Financial Aid recommends filing the FAFSA before applying. Funding (scholarships, grants, loans, work‑study) is allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Detailed information about specific graduate funding sources is available on the “Financing Your Graduate Education” page, but the source does not list amounts or eligibility criteria. Deadlines Deadlines vary by college and program. Applicants should consult each department’s deadline page and create a personal calendar. Standardized test scores, recommendation letters, transcripts, and financial‑aid applications should be timed to meet the earliest program deadline. Unknowns and Source Limitations - Exact GPA thresholds, prerequisite courses, and test score requirements are program‑specific and not detailed in the source. - Specific scholarship amounts, eligibility rules, and application procedures are not provided. - Precise application deadlines for individual programs are not listed; only a general statement that they vary. - The source does not include data on acceptance rates, average applicant profiles, or post‑acceptance steps. - All information reflects what is publicly posted on the CUNY graduate admissions page as of the retrieval date and may change without notice. Conclusion Prospective CUNY graduate students should start planning early, verify program‑specific requirements, and monitor deadlines closely. While the source outlines a clear procedural framework, many details remain program‑dependent and require direct confirmation from the relevant CUNY college. Source: https://www.cuny.edu/admissions/graduate-studies/prepare/ Checked: 2026-09-26T08:02:07.859872+00:00 Confirm details with the official institution before applying.