We welcome applicants from a variety of backgrounds and an undergraduate degree in computer science is not required.

Incoming students must have a strong background in computer science, including a solid understanding of complexity theory and good programming skills, as well as a good background in mathematics. Specifically, the first-year courses assume at least one year of college-level probability and statistics, as well as matrix algebra and multivariate calculus.

For our introductory machine learning course, our self-assessment test will give you some idea of the background we expect students to have. (For the master's, you're looking at the "modest requirements.") Generally, you need to have some reasonable programming skills, with experience in Matlab/R/scipy-numpy being especially helpful; Java and Python being more useful than C; and a solid math background, especially in probability/statistics, linear algebra, and matrix and tensor calculus.

The average scores of accepted applicants for the M.S. in Machine Learning: Applied Study for fall 2025 were as follows:

• Undergraduate Overall GPA: 3.9/4.0 or 9.5/10.0.
• GRE Quantitative: 169 (88th percentile)
• GRE Verbal: 160 (80th percentile)
• GRE Analytical Writing: 4.1 (63rd percentile)
• TOEFL: 111

Scores vary significantly and are only a small portion of applicants' qualifications. We do take people with a range of backgrounds for the master's program.

For information about our selectivity rate and other statistics, refer to the comparison PDF of all SCS master's programs.

For applicants applying to the MS in Machine Learning - Applied Study program in Fall 2025 for a start date of August 2026, GRE scores are optional.
We do not require or expect applicants to take a GRE Subject Test.

No. At this time, we do not offer online or distance-learning classes. You must be physically present in Pittsburgh and able to attend classes on campus to complete the program.

Yes, you can study part-time as long as you can attend the classes, which are generally held during the day on weekdays.

International students should be aware that student visas require students to complete the program full-time and finish the program by the end of their third semester (in December).

No. Applications are accepted only in December and students must begin the program the following August. We cannot make exceptions to this due to the timing of our set core courses.

No. You may not simply transfer into our program. You must submit an application and be accepted into the program, following the same application procedure as other applicants. Furthermore, the program does not accept transfer credit from other universities, although in certain situations a specific course requirement may be waived and an additional elective may be taken in its place.

Current CMU undergraduates may be able to apply for the 5th-Year Master's in Machine Learning, which begins immediately after they have completed their bachelor's degree. However, note that the Master's in Machine Learning: Applied Study is not available as a fifth-year master's.

Yes, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. As with all applicants, make sure that your statement of purpose makes it clear why you believe an additional master's degree will help you achieve your goals.

SCS has compiled a comparison of all its master's programs, including a PDF that compares program outcomes, average applicant scores and selectivity rates.

The Master's in Machine Learning: Applied Study is similar to the Master's in Machine Learning program. The applied study degree is ideal for students interested in a career in industry, with students regularly engaging in professional development outside the classroom and gaining experience working with industry employers during the summer. In comparison, the master's in machine learning allows students to spend more time on research within an academic environment.

The Career and Professional Development Center compiles post-graduate salaries and destination information about all graduates. While the Master's in Machine Learning: Applied Study program only began in 2020, you can see information about the original Master's in Machine Learning program there.

The application deadline can be found on the SCS Master's Admissions page. It changes from year to year, but is generally in late November or early December. You should expect an email response sometime in February. If you apply to multiple programs, you should expect to receive separate responses from each.

You can find additional information in the Machine Learning Master's Handbook.