← Back to search
Master'sUnited States · Computer Science / AI / Data Science
SM in Data Science
Harvard University
✓ Last verified Oct 4, 2026
Entry requirements
- English(Any one of these tests)
- TOEFL — Minimum 95Required
- IELTS — Minimum 7Required
- Tests
- GREOptional
- Prior degree
- Bachelor's degree from an institution of recognized standing, any discipline welcomedRequired
- Calculus, linear algebra and differential equationsPreferred
- Probability and statistical inferencePreferred
- Fluency in a programming language such as Python or R, and basic computer science conceptsPreferred
- Accepted English tests
- Only TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic accepted (home/online versions OK; Duolingo not accepted; TOEFL MyBest not accepted). Harvard Griffin GSAS minimums: TOEFL iBT 5 on the new scale (95 for tests before 21 Jan 2026) with Speaking 4.5 (23 for tests before 21 Jan 2026); IELTS Academic 7 with Speaking 6.5. Required if native language is not English and the bachelor's degree was not from an institution where English is the language of instruction. A master's degree does not waive it. For fall 2027, tests taken no earlier than 5 Jan 2025.
- How grades are compared
- No China-specific rule published. 'There is no GPA cutoff' / 'We do not have a minimum GPA requirement'. International applicants need a three- or four-year undergraduate degree from an institution of recognized standing (https://seas.harvard.edu/masters-data-science/how-apply)
- Other requirements
- Applied via Harvard Griffin GSAS application (Engineering and Applied Sciences > Data Science > SM). Three letters of recommendation (max four); statement of purpose about 1,000 words; CV/resume; transcripts (unofficial OK). No interview. No rolling admissions: single deadline 1 December; fall entry only; no late applications; deferrals only in extenuating circumstances. Cannot apply to both Data Science and CSE. Degree requires 12 courses, at least 3 semesters on campus; full-time only. Master's students not eligible for SEAS financial aid. Admitted students must keep a B average.