Frequently Asked Questions

MIDS seeks creative, self-motivated students who are passionate about using data to solve problems. We’ll look for evidence that you’ve made efforts to learn about data science and that you’re confident data science is the right path for you.

We’re particularly excited to welcome students who want to apply data science to topics in which they already have deep expertise. Although certainly not required, we value compelling stories about specific problems you want to solve.

February 15, 2024.

Applicants need to have an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution (or will have completed their undergraduate degree before the fall semester begins).

• Transcripts
• 3 letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Resume
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores (if English is not your first language)
• GPA
• 2-minute video

Not required but successful applicants to MIDS tend to also have:

• previous quantitative coursework (i.e., linear algebra, statistics, etc.)
• previous computer programming coursework or experience  (i.e., Python)

The GRE is optional for the 2024 admissions cycle.

There are no minimum test score or GPA requirements to apply to MIDS. Our admissions committee reviews applications holistically and test scores and GPA are considered alongside other application components. See the Statistics section of The Graduate School’s website for the average GRE scores and GPAs of previously admitted applicants.

Yes. Please refer to this webpage for more information about English language proficiency exams.

You can find detailed instructions on how to apply here.

Some candidates may be asked to interview if we have additional questions regarding your application/candidacy.

No, a separate application is not required. 

Be a United States Citizen or an eligible noncitizen

If you have a “green card” (in other words, if you are a permanent resident alien), you will be considered an “eligible noncitizen” and will be able to get federal student aid if you meet the other basic eligibility criteria.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, please continue to studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. You will need to file the 2021/2022 FAFSA and have your completed tax returns for 2020.  Graduate Students are considered independent, so therefore, NO parental income or information should be entered on the FAFSA. Our school code is 002920.

Due to the cohort nature of MIDS and sequencing of the curriculum, we do not allow students to enroll part-time.

Students take 7 core MIDS courses, a 1 year Capstone Project course, and half credit seminar/workshop courses that focus on professional development. Further, MIDS students need to complete at least 4 semester long electives to graduate. A complete list of MIDS core courses can be found here.

There is a list on the MIDS website with “pre-approved” courses that are most common to students enrolled in MIDS. You can find that list here. However, students are not limited to these courses and should use DukeHub to explore other options related to their academic and career interests.

Students can also discuss with MIDS staff/faculty what they are looking for and then MIDS staff/faculty can advise from there. Please note: students are advised to not take an elective during their first semester.

Bootcamp is an intensive dive into programming and begins 3 weeks prior to the start of the fall semester. Bootcamp is required of all incoming students.

Yes. MIDS students take a 0.5 credit workshop series that focuses on career and professional development.

The Graduate School and Duke MIDS generally seeks scores no less than: 90 for the Internet-based TOEFL, 577 for the paper-based TOEFL, 7.0 for the IELTS test, or 115 for the Duolingo English Test.

Yes, you may submit a credential evaluation from a third party (e.g. WES or ECE), but you must also submit the transcript from your institution.

Yes. Submit your application as soon as you have completed all the sections and sent recommendation requests to your recommenders. After you submit your application, the graduate admissions office can link recommendation letters as they are received.
It is critical that your letters of recommendation arrive by the application deadline.