Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply to more than one INI program?

You can request consideration for other INI programs in Pittsburgh and at our global campuses, but you should only submit one application to your primary program of choice. Duplicate applications will be deleted. During application reviews the admissions committee will consider your qualifications for the other INI programs you've indicated. If you are not qualified for the program you've submitted an application for, the INI will consider you for other INI programs you may qualify for.

Can you tell me my chances of being accepted into an INI program?

The list of minimum requirements provided on the Admissions pages of the Degrees section provides guidelines for the basic qualifications needed to be considered for admission to the programs. Any further evaluation must be undertaken by the admissions committee once a full application is available for review.

Can I use the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) department application or other department applications to apply to the INI?

With the Carnegie Institute of Technology's online application, please note that you may not apply to more than one Carnegie Mellon department per application. Applicants who wish to apply to the INI and ECE for instance, must complete a separate form for each and pay a separate application fee as well.

I have a question about ECE Graduate Programs

The Information Networking Institute only administers the MSIN, MSISTM and MSIT programs. For information on ECE graduate and doctoral programs, please contact ECE at apps@ece.cmu.edu.

Can I submit my application online?

You may apply online here.

Can I pay my application fee online?

If you are applying online, you may pay your application fee online with a credit card. Applicants who do not wish to pay the application fee online should select "Pay by Check."

You may also pay with a personal check, money order or cashier's check made payable to Carnegie Mellon University. International students should pay with a check drawn on a bank in the United States. Do not send cash or stamps.

I sent my GRE scores through ETS to the wrong department; do I need to resend my scores to the INI?

No, GRE scores can be retrieved from the Carnegie Mellon central database. If we are unable to retrieve your scores, you will be contacted. If you haven’t already sent in your application, please include a copy of your GRE scores for initial review.

However, if you send your ETS scores to another department this may cause a delay in completing your application, so you are encouraged to use the GRE and TOEFL codes provided on the INI website under Degree Programs in the "Application Details."

I’ve sent my application materials separately, e.g., recommendation letters sent by recommenders, GRE sent by ETS; will you keep my documents on file until my application arrives?

All documents sent to the INI in support of an application are kept on file until the full application package is complete.

What is the department and institution code I should use to send my GREs through ETS?

Department: 0404
Institution: 2074

Do I have to take the TOEFL if my undergraduate language was English?

The TOEFL is required as a standard objective test accepted by Carnegie Mellon to demonstrate skill levels in written and spoken English for applicants whose native language is not English. The INI also accepts the IELTS test as a demonstration of ESL skill. Only non-native English-speaking applicants who have attended a four-year undergraduate program in a U.S. university can waive these required tests.

The codes for reporting the TOEFL test are Department 99; Institution (CMU-INI) 8569.

The IELTS should be sent with an official cover sheet as verification of authenticity.

Do I have to take the GRE General Test? Can I substitute another test for it?

Only the GRE General Test is accepted. Neither the GMAT nor GRE Subject Tests are accepted for admission evaluation.

Does the INI offer internship positions?

The INI does not offer or manage any internship programs.

Does the INI offer TA or RA positions?

Students at the INI have the opportunity to get involved with the activities of other departments by assisting in courses as teaching interns or assistants. These assignments typically offer a stipend that is determined by the offering department. In addition, students with an interest in cybersecurity may have the opportunity to work on research projects through institutions such as the Center for Computer and Communications Security that may also offer additional stipends.

I’m having trouble getting my original transcripts; do I need to include originals with my application or will you accept copies?

All transcripts must be original. Copies cannot be accepted.

I’m an international student; do I have to include financial statements with my application?

Yes, please forward documents demonstrating financial resources along with your other application materials. The document should be a bank statement, and you may also send an affidavit of support from your sponsor. Note that you may need to send additional documentation if you are admitted.

Does the INI offer tuition waivers?

The INI does not offer tuition waivers.

How much is tuition?

Tuition for INI programs is set in the spring. Please see the Carnegie Mellon Hub website for amounts.

How much financial assistance can I expect?

Most graduates entering the program receive some assistance in the form of a tuition scholarship. The amount of the assistance, if any, is determined by the admissions committee at the time of application review. In general, students admitted to the program are responsible for the bulk of their tuition. The majority of students find funding either through family, personal loans, government programs, or educational funding organizations.

Can I visit the INI offices?

Prospective students are welcome to visit the INI offices at any time. Please contact the INI at (412) 268-7195 to arrange a visit.

For additional questions concerning the MSIN, MSISTM or MSIT programs, please feel free to contact the Information Networking Institute
(412) 268-7195
(412) 268-7196 (f)
ini@cmu.edu