Cornell University supports international graduate applicants with application fee waiver options and robust funding packages. Nearly all Ph.D. students admitted to Cornell are fully funded, ensuring access to world-class education without financial strain.

Who Can Apply?

• International students applying for Master’s (research-based) or Ph.D. programs.

• Applicants who demonstrate financial hardship or participation in eligible programs may request a fee waiver.

What is Covered?

• Application fee waiver (upon approval).

• Full tuition and mandatory fees.

• Health insurance.

• Annual stipend (~$35,661 for 2025–26; higher at Cornell Tech).

• Assistantship or fellowship support, often guaranteed for 5–6 years.

• Additional departmental support (summer stipends, travel grants, dissertation aid).

Eligibility Criteria

• Must apply to a graduate program at Cornell (eligibility varies by department).

• Fee waiver requires proof of financial hardship or participation in specific qualifying programs.

• Strong academic background required for admission.

• Some programs may request proof of funding before admission for international applicants.

How to Apply?

1. Begin an application on Cornell’s Graduate School portal.

2. Request a fee waiver in the payment section, with supporting explanation.

3. Submit all required documents (transcripts, recommendations, test scores if required).

4. Review program-specific funding details through your department.

Deadline
Varies by program (check departmental pages). Fee waiver requests should be submitted several days before the deadline.