CORNELL UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
This Ph.D. program is designed for students seeking advanced training in technology and engineering design, with a focus on developing leadership skills for research and teaching roles. The curriculum is highly flexible, allowing you to personalize your course of study in collaboration with your advisor and a special committee to align with your specific interests and career aspirations. Admission is directly to the Ph.D. program; a Master's degree is not a prerequisite. A key milestone is the Qualifying Examination, which includes Subject Area Examinations administered by the ECE Faculty, typically taken before the second year of study.
Careers
The Ph.D. program is designed to train students for leadership positions in teaching and research.
- Leadership positions in teaching
- Leadership positions in research
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- For TOEFL, a score of 100 is required for tests taken before January 2026, and a score of 5.0 (recommended 5.5) for tests taken January 2026 or later. IELTS requires a score of 7.5, Duolingo requires 130, and Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency requires 191.
- Is a Master's degree required for admission to the Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering program?
- No, admission is directly to the Ph.D. program, and a Master's degree is not a prerequisite.
- How does financial aid work for international students?
- Financial aid for international students is need-based only, and admissions decisions are need-aware. International applicants needing financial assistance must apply for aid when submitting their admission application.
- What are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering?
- The Early Decision application and financial aid deadline is November 1, with supplemental materials due November 14. The Regular Decision application and financial aid deadline is January 2, with supplemental materials due January 16.
- What are the career outcomes for graduates of this program?
- This Ph.D. program is designed to train students for leadership positions in teaching and research.
Entry requirements
TOEFL (prior to Jan 2026)100
TOEFL (Jan 2026 or later)5.0 (recommended 5.5)
IELTS7.5
Duolingo130
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency191
English proficiency can also be demonstrated if you are a U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident, if English is your native language, or if English has been the primary language of instruction throughout your secondary school career. Self-reported scores are accepted initially, with official scores required upon enrollment.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Financial aid for international students is need-based only. Admissions decisions for international applicants are need-aware, meaning the ability to pay educational costs is considered. International applicants needing financial assistance must apply for aid when submitting their admission application.
How to apply
1. Complete the Common ApplicationThe Common Application opens in August. Ensure you also complete the Cornell Writing Supplement.
2. Pay the Application FeeThere is an $85 application fee, or a fee waiver may be available.
3. Submit Financial Aid Application MaterialsFor international applicants requiring financial aid, the CSS Profile must be completed by the specified deadline.
4. Submit Supplemental MaterialsThis includes any required portfolios or specific supplements depending on your intended program (if applicable). The general deadline for supplemental materials is typically mid-November for Early Decision and mid-January for Regular Decision, excluding portfolio submissions.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
For TOEFL, a score of 100 is required for tests taken before January 2026, and a score of 5.0 (recommended 5.5) for tests taken January 2026 or later. IELTS requires a score of 7.5, Duolingo requires 130, and Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency requires 191.
Is a Master's degree required for admission to the Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering program?
+
No, admission is directly to the Ph.D. program, and a Master's degree is not a prerequisite.
How does financial aid work for international students?
+
Financial aid for international students is need-based only, and admissions decisions are need-aware. International applicants needing financial assistance must apply for aid when submitting their admission application.
What are the application deadlines for the Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering?
+
The Early Decision application and financial aid deadline is November 1, with supplemental materials due November 14. The Regular Decision application and financial aid deadline is January 2, with supplemental materials due January 16.
What are the career outcomes for graduates of this program?
+
This Ph.D. program is designed to train students for leadership positions in teaching and research.