Over the years, we’ve found that successful applicants have outstanding academic records and are a good fit for our graduate fields.
Before applying to a field of study, take the time to research the field and its faculty. Learn about similar fields and their faculty at Cornell and at other institutions.
Before you apply
Decide what you want to study. Learn as much about the field as you can. Learn about recent research and current job prospects.
Learn about Cornell’s unique field system, and our nearly 100 graduate fields of study.
Use our field of study search to find fields and faculty that interest you. Learn more about their faculty and their research. Find the best fit.
Visit the field website to learn about requirements, deadlines, opportunities, and curriculum.
Graduate school is a major life commitment. Ask yourself hard questions. Are you truly passionate about the subject and willing to spend a number of years researching, teaching, and learning about this field? Can you picture yourself in this field?
Determine tuition and funding for your prospective field and degree. Tuition and funding vary by field at Cornell. Many research doctorate programs are funded.
Contact the graduate field assistant by email or phone to ask questions and learn about opportunities for connecting with faculty and visiting Cornell. The graduate field assistant contact information is available on the website.
Make a list of all application materials that you will need and identify which materials should be sent directly to the field.
If you have followed all of these steps and think you’re ready to apply, read the section on applying and review the application checklist.
