Graduate admission requirements by student type
Graduate school admission requirements vary for domestic, international, and graduate special applicants. Select from the options below to learn more.
Need help or more information? Call us at (775) 784-6869 or email gradadmissions@unr.edu.
International student applicants
Domestic student applicants
A domestic applicant is any applicant who is a U.S. citizen or holds a permanent resident visa. Those who hold an H1B visa or are a DACA (dreamer) student are considered domestic applicants. To read additional information about what other types of visas may be considered for domestic status, please visit the Office of International Students and Scholars.
Below are the requirements for domestic applicants:
- Bachelor’s degree or recognized equivalent from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum undergraduate grade point average (on a 4.0 scale):
- 2.75 for a master’s degree
- 3.0 for a doctoral degree
- Online application
- Official transcripts from every institution attended for a complete history of your education
- Official GRE or GMAT test scores from an exam taken within the past 5 years (exam requirement and recommended scores are determined by individual programs)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation, per program-specific requirements
These frequently asked questions can help you navigate the application process if you are a domestic applicant.
How do I apply for an assistantship?
The application will ask if you wish to be considered for a graduate assistantship. Graduate assistantships are awarded by the applicant’s graduate program or academic department, not by the Graduate School. For information regarding the availability of graduate assistantships, please contact the appropriate graduate program director. Also, please review the Graduate School's information on graduate assistantships.
How much will the program cost?
The cost of your degree program varies based on many factors, such as the cost per credit and how many credits are required by your program. Review the cost of with our tuition and fees page.
What is the duration of the program?
The duration of a program varies by program and its requirements. Contact the program director to determine an accurate timeline.
How long does it take to review my application?
Once we receive all transcripts and GRE/GMAT test scores (if required by program), the Graduate School will complete a credential evaluation of your education history and forward your application package to the department for review. Unofficial transcripts can be submitted for this part of the process. Depending on the number of applications received, the timeline can vary for review. We recommend that you contact the department to verify the status of your application or log into your application account to view your status.
Do I need official transcripts and test scores?
Yes, official transcripts and test scores will be needed if your application is approved by the department for acceptance. We recommend you request your official transcripts with degree confirmation as early as possible, as this can take time in some countries to obtain. Official GRE can take up to four weeks to be received at the University, depending on the time of year submitted. The sooner you request for documents, the faster we can send an official admission letter.
My checklist is not showing documents that I uploaded to my application, but I know I uploaded them.
Please allow 3-5 business days for our office to review your documents submitted and update your checklist. Official documents (transcripts and test scores) will complete your items on your checklist.
I was admitted! What do I do next?
Log into your application account, and click on the notification that shows your admission decision notification. The official acceptance letter will be sent within two business days to the mailing address on file. You will also receive a letter in the mail that will provide instructions to log into your MyNevada portal. This portal will allow you to register for courses, pay fees and tuition, etc. Please be sure we have your correct mailing address on file.
Graduate special (Non-degree seeking applicants)
The graduate special classification is for students who have earned a bachelor's degree and wish to take graduate courses without enrolling in a graduate program leading to an advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.). These students are usually referred to as grad specials or non-degree seeking students. Applicants who do not currently meet the requirements for admission to regular graduate standing may also apply for graduate special status. However, admission to graduate special status does not constitute admission to graduate standing in the graduate school. All non-degree students are governed by University regulations, including academic warning and probation, and are encouraged to seek official admission at the earliest possible date.