This is a list of questions that are frequently asked by prospective students. If you need information regarding a differeent department, you can obtain that information by accessing Rensselaer's RPInfo home page (www.rpi.edu) and selecting "Academics".

How is Rensselaer ranked when compared to other universities?

Rensselaer is a recognized leader in graduate education. According to the 2002 edition of U.S. News & World Report, Rensselaer's School of Engineering ranked 30th in the nation. Each of Rensselaer's other schools have also achieved national prominence for distinctive programs such as the Techno-MBA, Ecological Economics and the Polymer Synthesis Center.

Where is Rensselaer located?

Rensselaer is situated on a scenic, 260-acre hillside campus in Troy, NY, across the Hudson River from the state capital of Albany and approximately 2 1/2 hours north of New York City. Troy's location provides students with a medium-sized community to live in and an easy commute to Boston, New York City and Montreal. Sixty thousand students attend 14 area colleges and universities and benefit from shared activities and courses.

How will I know what is required to get a degree from Rensselaer?

General requirements related to grading, course level, etc. can be found in the catalog or on-line. Specific requirements for the masters and doctoral programs are outlined in this website. You can access the catalog and specific departments from here.

How long does it take to get a decision on my application?

Most departments normally make decisions on applications containing all required credentials no later than April for the fall term, although the process will coninue until all completed applications have been reviewed.

What is the minimum grade point average (gpa) required for admission and financial aid?

Rensselaer's admission process is competitive rather than a minimum standards process. Several factors are considered when determining the admissibility of an applicant. Academic performance and ranking, test scores, the compatibility (or fit) between the applicant's desired program and what is offered, letters of recommendation and the prevailing competition are some of the factors considered.

What are the minimum GRE scores?

There are no minimum scores and the range can vary from department to department. It is important to keep in mind that the GRE is only one factor in the admissions decision.

What is the cost of study, including tuition, room and board and fees?

Tuition is $26,400, room and board averages $9,000 and fees are approximately $1,400 for the academic year.

For Part-time study, tuition is charged at a rate of $1,320.

How do I apply for financial aid?

The same application is used for the admission and financial aid process. Only full-time students are eligible for institute and departmental financial aid.

What are my chances of getting financial aid?

Approximately 25% of admitted students are offered some form of financial aid although it does vary from semester to semester. It is important to note that financial aid at the graduate level is based on merit, not on need. Availability of aid varies from department to department and semester to semester.

If I enroll on my own funds, will I be able to get financial aid in my second year?

While second year aid sometimes becomes available, it is not consistent and you must plan to fund your entire education.

When should I submit my application?

Applications with all supporting documents should be received at Rensselaer no later than January 15 for fall and summer consideration and by August 15 for the spring term.

Where can I get information on housing?

If you want on-campus housing, you should contact the Office of Residence Life. You can access their homepage from www.rpi.edu and selecting "Residence Life" or you may call their office at 518-276-6284. For information on off-campus housing, you can access the database list at www.union.rpi.edu/off-campus.

What medical coverage is available?

We offer the Rensselaer Student Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan which is a low-cost, nationwide Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) program in conjunction with the on-campus Gallagher Health Center. A PPO is a network of physicians and other health care providers that offer care to its member at a lower rate than through traditional insurance. The PPO can be used to supplement existing family insurance or, in some cases, may be the student's only insurance. There is also a dental insurance plan for all full-time graduate students. For additional details, please contact the Gallagher Health Center at www.rpi.edu/dept/health-services/public.html.index.htm

How can I contact Rensselaer students?

You can contact the Graduate Student Council, which is a body of elected students that represents all graduate students in all Institute affairs, by accessing their homepage through www.rpi.edu and selecting "Student Life and Services". International students can also access information on international student clubs through this listing.