Graduate Admissions FAQ
How Do I Apply?
It’s easy to start your graduate program at Colorado School of Mines. Apply online, any time. For step-by-step instructions click here. You may also want to review requirements to ensure you have everything you need to complete your admissions application.
Foreign Exchange Graduate Information, click here for more information and a timeline of when to start the process.
When Will I Receive an Admissions Decision?
Graduate studies application decisions are made by the individual academic departments, not the Office of Admissions. You can check the status of your application in your applicant portal at any time, be sure to also check your email often for updates and additional information.
How to Submit Required and Supplemental Documents
After submitting your application, you will gain access to your Admissions Applicant Portal. Your Applicant Portal will allow you to monitor what you are still missing for a completed application, submit documents, self-report test scores and where you will receive your admissions decision.
Documents you will be able to upload include:
- Unofficial transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- Test Score Report (this document type is for reference only; in order to complete your test score requirements, you must enter the scores on the respective application page.)
- ‘Other’ supplemental application materials
Note that references/letters of recommendation must be submitted by the recommenders you provide in this application. Recommenders will be granted access to their own portal for that purpose.
Missing Application Materials?
Once your application has been submitted you will be able to review the status of your application in your Application Applicant Portal.
You uploaded your Official/Unofficial Transcripts but your checklist still shows them as not received?
There could be a few reasons:
- You uploaded them in the last 24-48 business hours. We review transcripts before they are reflected on your portal.
- We received your transcript but the transcript was too low of a resolution and we are unable to review it. You will need to resend a higher resolution copy of the transcript to grad-admissions@mines.edu or re-upload them to the portal. We are unable to complete your application file until this documentation is received.
- We received your transcript and because your name and/or the name of the University are not included on the transcript, we are unable to use it for review. Please resend a copy of the transcript containing this information to grad-admissions@mines.edu or reupload them to the portal. We are unable to complete your application file until this documentation is received.
Your Official/Unofficial test scores are uploaded but not reflected on your checklist as fulfilled?
There could be a few reasons:
- If you uploaded your scoresheet in the last 24-48 business hours. We review scores before they are reflected on your portal.
- Your test scores were no longer valid. GRE scores are valid for 5 years and English Language Scores are valid for 2 years.
- If you submitted English Language scores that are valid, your score may not meet the minimum requirement.
Is the Test of English Language Required for International Applicants?
You can view and learn more about the english proficiency requirement here. We do not offer conditional admissions based on the English Proficiency requirement or waivers of the exam.
Can I Have My GRE/GMAT or English Language Requirement Waived?
GRE/GMAT Waivers:
The Admissions Office does not waive GRE/GMAT requirements. Please verify that the GRE/GMAT is required for your application by checking the program specific admissions requirements.
- If the GRE/GMAT is required and you wish to request a waiver, please reach out to your Program of interest.
Proof of English Language:
View the tests accepted, score requirements and list of other ways to meet the english proficiency requirement here. There are no other acceptable ways to prove english proficiency the ones listed.
Funding and Financial Aid
Aid for Graduate School is usually provided through a Teaching Assistantship (TA) or Research Assistantship (RA). Both Assistantships are generally awarded to Masters Thesis (MS-T) and Doctoral (PHD) level applicants. You will be reviewed for a TA and/or RA during the application review process, this does not require a separate application.
You can find more information about types of financial aid for graduate students here.
Can I Have My Application Fee Waived?
Unfortunately, The Admissions Office does not waive applications fees.
Been Admitted and Not Sure What's Next
Check you applicant portal and view the “Graduate Student Next Steps Checklist”. You will find information on how to submit your enrollment form, submitting Final Official Transcripts, registering for classes and much more. We will also be in contact of your next steps via email so be sure to check your inbox often.
Average starting salary for MS graduate students
Average starting salary for PhD graduate students
Elevate Your Career.
Mines graduate students enter the workforce with the highest of standards of integrity and skill, assuming top positions in industry, government and academia.
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positive outcome for MS graduates one year post-graduation
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positive outcomes for PhD graduates one year post-graduation
- A graduate degree unlocks the next level of career positions.
- A graduate degree will strengthen your admissions application for a doctoral program.