Frequently asked questions
Are you interested in applying to CMU-Africa but have questions about the application process, tuition and financial aid, or our master's degree programs? Please contact us at africa-admissions@andrew.cmu.edu.
Are you interested in applying to CMU-Africa but have questions about the application process, tuition and financial aid, or our master's degree programs? Please contact us at africa-admissions@andrew.cmu.edu.
What are the deadlines for submitting my application?
Please refer to the important dates on our Admissions page
What do I need to submit for my application to be considered complete?
A complete application consists of the online application, a statement of purpose, CV/Resume, contact details of three referees as well as unofficial transcripts. You can submit TOEFL or IELTS score reports if you have them, but please note that this is optional.
How can I check my application status?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to view the status of your application online. You will receive email communications from the admissions team on the status of your application at every stage. Due to the large number of applications and volume of emails received daily from CMU-Africa applicants, it may not be possible to respond to individual requests for information.
Where do I mail my transcript(s) after I am admitted?
Please wait to mail your transcript until you have been requested to do so. You will be provided with CMU-Africa’s address by our Admissions and Enrollment Services Officer.
Will CMU-Africa pay for my GRE and TOEFL/IELTS tests?
In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we will not be accepting GRE scores this year. CMU-Africa will cover competency test fees for first time applicants who submit their applications by the December 15th, 2020 early application deadline.
Please note: CMU-Africa only covers the cost of competency tests once. Returning applicants will be required to take the tests at their own cost.
Is the TOEFL/IELTS test required of all applicants?
All non-native English speakers must submit at least one valid score report from one of the following examinations: IELTS, TOEFL or the Duolingo English Test (DET).
Only applicants with undergraduate degrees from the USA, U.K and Canadian universities are exempt from providing English language exam scores with their application.
Can I submit an IELTS score instead of a TOEFL?
You may take either the TOEFL , IELTS or Duolingo English test. While there are no minimum requirements, our admitted students typically score more than 90 on the TOEFL , 6.5 on the IELTS, or 105 on the Duolingo English Test.
If you choose to take the TOEFL or IELTS, please make sure you indicate CMU-Africa as a recipient for your tests scores.
What is the minimum GRE, and GPA required for admission?
While there are no “cut-offs” for the GRE and GPA, most of our students scored above 300 for the GRE and have graduated with 2nd class honors and above. Both the GRE and GPA are evaluated in the context of your entire application package.
Can I make updates to my application after it has been submitted?
Are all applicants considered for financial aid? Is there a separate financial aid form?
Only admitted applicants of African nationality are eligible for consideration for financial aid. Financial aid forms are sent to applicants at the test stage of the admissions process. Please view our financial aid page for more information.
How much is the application fee?
The is no fee charged when applying to CMU-Africa’s master’s programs.
I already have a graduate degree, can I still apply?
Yes, you are welcome to apply. In your statement of purpose, please be prepared to address your reason for pursuing an additional graduate degree.
Can I apply for more than one program?
No, you may only apply to one program.
I do not have a background in ECE or IT. Can I still apply?
Our programs are tailored for candidates with a strong Computer science/engineering background. Without it, it is very unlikely that you would succeed. If you are really interested in pursuing your career in IT or Engineering, it would be advised that you spend some time working on acquiring the necessary technical competencies and qualifications before you apply.
If I was not admitted, can I reapply?
CMU-Africa will keep your information on file. If you are interested in reapplying, please view the Graduate Application Deadlines to monitor the open application periods.
If I reapply, do I need to submit new materials?
Your new application will retain some previously entered biographical information. However, other sections will need to be completed again. You do not need to request ETS to send new official scores if you had requested them with your previous application UNLESS you have retaken the tests and have updated scores.
When should I expect to hear back from the Admissions Office about my application results?
Can I have access to my Duolingo scores?
My question wasn’t answered here. Who should I contact?
You may contact our Admissions team at africa-admissions@andrew.cmu.edu.