Prospective Graduate Students
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at The Ohio State University
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at The Ohio State University provides graduate students opportunities to perform cutting edge research in state-of-the-art research laboratories with many of the top faculty in their respective fields. Our department provides diverse opportunities for graduate studies in fundamental and applied research in all areas of mechanical engineering. The program offers both M.S. and Ph.D. degrees and it has been recognized for the quality of its academic and research programs. We also focus on multidisciplinary, collaborative research with faculty with other departments in the College of Engineering and in colleges at The Ohio State University including the College of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and the College of Medicine.
Leaders in the Field
Our highly talented faculty consists of more than 40 men and women who are not only leaders in their respective fields, but many have also been recognized at both the national and international levels. Ten of our faculty members have received the NSF Presidential Young Investigator, National Young Investigator, or the CAREER award, while two have received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. In addition, our faculty members hold 35 Fellow-grade memberships in national professional societies including the American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the Acoustical Society of America, the American Nuclear Society, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. 
Diverse Fields of Study
The Department of Mechanical Engineering emphasizes four core research areas that allow students to find a subject that they can enjoy and study for their graduate education. The five principal research areas are: Applied Mechanics, Design and Manufacturing, Dynamic Systems and Controls, Energy, Fluid, and Thermal Systems, and Nuclear Engineering. Within the five core research areas there are more than 35 specific thrust areas allowing students to concentrate on topics ranging from Acoustics and Vibrations to Turbulence.
World Class Facilities
In order to perform world class research you need first-rate facilities. Our new $71.1 million departmental home, the Peter L. and Clara M. Scott Laboratory, was completed in the Fall of 2006 and provides our students and faculty with state-of-the-art facilities in the form of well-equipped academic and research laboratories and classrooms, resulting in a superb teaching and learning environment. Scott Lab is a high-tech, growth-oriented teaching and research center that sets the standard for university-level mechanical engineering facilities in the country. In addition to Scott Lab, there are numerous other labs associated with the Department of Mechanical Engineering including the Gas Turbine Lab and the nationally renowned Center for Automotive Research (CAR).
Life Outside the Lab
There must be a balance between a graduate student's work and the rest of their life. As a student you will be able to participate in any of the multiple events hosted by the Ohio Union Activity Board (OUAB). The OUAB is responsible for organizing many of the concerts and shows that are available to students. Some past events hosted by OUAB include performances by Will Ferrell, Carlos Mencia, and Dashboard Confessional just to name a few. Another hot spot on campus is the South Campus Gateway, which offers a movie theater, an assortment of stores, and a wide selection of restaurants for students to discover. Students can also go to any number of sporting events throughout the year ranging from soccer and lacrosse to basketball and baseball and on a Fall Saturday afternoon you can always see the Best Damn Team in the Land and The Best Damn Band in the Land (TBDBITL) in Ohio Stadium.
For those who wish to venture away from campus, the City of Columbus offers many different options for students to get out of their labs and classrooms. Recently named the number one up-and-coming tech city by Forbes magazine, Columbus is home to the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets, the MLS's Columbus Crew, and the Arnold Sports Festival. If you are not a sports fan, then there are plenty of other things to do including visiting the world famous Columbus Zoo, COSI, German Village, the Short North, or going to a concert at the Newport Music Hall or Nationwide Arena. Whatever you like to do, Columbus offers a large variety of events and attractions.
To Find Out More...
We encourage you to look around our website where you will find information about our talented faculty, our numerous academic and research labs that students can work in, and our program requirements. Students will also be able to request more information about the program, find information on how to apply, or how to schedule a visit. The Mechanical Engineering Graduate Handbook is available online in PDF format. This guide outlines policies and procedures pertaining to the graduate program in mechanical engineering. In addition, the Graduate School Handbook should be consulted for additional details on rules and regulations relevant to a graduate degree at Ohio State. If you have any questions about admission into the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Program, please contact Nick Breckenridge at megrad_recruit@osu.edu.
Combined BS/MS Program
"The BS/MS program is a great way to get a head start on both the classes and the research needed to complete a master's degree. I would highly recommend it to anyone considering getting an advanced degree in engineering."
- Tim Szweda, BS/MS Student B.S.M.E. 2007 M.S.M.E. 2008
WHAT IS THE BS/MS PROGRAM?
The BS/MS program allows exceptional OSU Undergraduate students an opportunity to apply as many as 15 credit hours from their undergraduate studies towards a Master of Science (MS) degree.
WHO CAN APPLY
Students who have earned at least 135 total credit hours in the Mechanical Engineering Department or related engineering disciplines, and have a 3.5 grade-point average or better in all previous undergraduate courses taken at Ohio State, may apply.
WHEN TO APPLY
Applicants should submit an application and the required supplemental documents to the ME Graduate Program office no earlier than four quarters before the completion of their BS degree and no later than the 5th Friday of the quarter before they wish to start the BS/MS Program.
HOW THE BS/MS PROGRAM WORKS
Students can take up to 15 credit hours worth of classes that can be counted toward both their BS and MS degree. In order to receive graduate credit the courses must meet the following requirements:
- They must be technical elective courses taken at OSU after acceptance into the BS/MS Program. Technical elective courses that are going to be applied to the MS degree must be approved by the ME BS/MS Advisor.
- No 500-level or lower ME course may be included.
- Up to three 600-level ME courses (except ME 693) may be included.
- Any 700-level ME course (other than 783H) may be included.
- Relevant graduate courses in other subjects, such as Mathematics (as allowed by the ME technical electives program) may be included; refer to the technical electives program for guidelines.
HOW TO APPLY
Step One
You MUST meet with the BS/MS Advisor (currently Professor Guezennec, guezennec.1@osu.edu) to discuss the suitability of the BS/MS program and to get his approval prior to applying.
Step Two
Apply online at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/apply_online.htm. In the field marked "Specialization, if any" please fill in BS/MS.
Step Three
Submit the following items to the ME Graduate Program Office:
- A completed BS/MS Degree Information Sheet (located at the bottom of this page) initialed by the BS/MS Advisor
- A Statement of Purpose (including why you are interested in the BS/MS program)
- Three letters of recommendation (preferably from individuals in academia (i.e. professors) or someone who is familiar with your work, like a manager)
- OPTIONAL: A one or two page résumé (Only required if you are interested in pursuing a PhD and would like to be considered for a Fellowship).
- Applicants must meet all requirements of the MS Program as described in the ME Graduate Guide as well as those listed in the Graduate School handbook.
Students interested in pursuing the BS/MS option can also contact Nick Breckenridge, Academic Advisor for the ME graduate program, at megrad_recruit@osu.edu or at (614) 292-7163.
BS/MS Financial Aid Options
BS/MS Scholarship
Upon admittance into the BS/MS Program, the ME department will pay the difference between graduate and undergraduate tuition for up to four undergraduate quarters for Mechanical Engineering undergraduate students who select the thesis option.
Fellowships
BS/MS applicants who commit to pursuing a PhD, apply by the January 1st deadline, and submit GRE scores are eligible for Graduate School Fellowships starting in the first year of their PhD degree. Note: BS/MS students for whom MS is the final degree are not eligible for Graduate School Fellowships.
Scholarships
BS/MS students will continue to be eligible for undergraduate scholarships through BS graduation.
Graduate Associateships
Upon admission to the BS/MS program, students become eligible for graduate associateships.
BS/MS Program Tips
- Thesis and Non-Thesis options are available (although the Thesis option is encouraged for BS/MS students)
- Once admitted, BS/MS students are officially part of the ME Graduate Program and are assessed graduate tuition. The ME Department will provide a scholarship to pay the difference between graduate and undergraduate tuition for up to 4 undergraduate quarters for students pursuing the Thesis option. The BS/MS scholarship will continue until BS graduation and it is only available to ME undergrads. Students must maintain at least a 3.5GPA in order to receive the scholarship.
- BS/MS students will continue to be eligible for undergraduate scholarships until the completion of their BS degree.
- Upon admission to the BS/MS program students will be eligible for Graduate Associate positions.
- BS/MS students who are considering the pursuit of a PhD, apply by the January 1st deadline, and submit GRE scores, are eligible for multiple-year Graduate School Fellowships. If a Fellowship is awarded, then it will not be in effect until the student starts to pursue a PhD. Note: BS/MS students for whom MS is the final degree are not eligible for Graduate School Fellowships
- Typical GRE scores for Fellowship consideration are:
- A combined average of the 75th percentile on the Verbal and Quantitative sections. That does not mean you must score within the 75th percentile on both tests individually, rather that the average of the two tests must be within the 75th percentile. For example, a score that falls within the 95th percentile in the Quantitative section and the 60th percentile in the Verbal section is well within the required average for a Fellowship.
- A typical score on the Writing section is at least 4.0.
- The BS/MS program, while distinct from the BS Honors program, targets the same students. These programs are NOT mutually exclusive. As a matter of fact, participating in both the BS Honors and BS/MS program is STRONGLY encouraged as the programs are highly synergistic and maximize the benefits to the participants.
- The selection of a Graduate Faculty Advisor, while not technically required to apply, is highly recommended and should be a top priority prior to or shortly after admission into the program. The role of the graduate advisor is much stronger than the role at the undergraduate level. The Graduate Advisor will aid you in class selection, choosing a research topic, coordinating your thesis, one-on-one advising, and may provide financial support (often times in the form of GRA). Typically students are encouraged to talk with different Faculty members during their first full quarter in the MS program. This allows the student to get an idea for what research the Faculty member is doing and it gives the Faculty member a chance to get to know the student as well. It is important to recognize your own interests and try to find a Faculty member that shares some, if not all, of your interests, as it will provide you with a better Graduate experience overall.
Facilities Outside of Scott Lab
Below are pictures of the labs off campus at Ohio State. If you are interested in seeing the Facilities in the Mechanical Engineering Department, then check out the Visit Us section for more information about upcoming visitation days.
Gas Turbine Lab
Financial Support Information
Each year, the Mechanical Engineering Department employs more than one hundred graduate associates including graduate teaching associates (GTAs) and graduate research associates (GRAs). GTAs may be asked to teach, provide laboratory assistance and/or perform other related activities. GRAs are assigned to research projects under the supervision of graduate professors. It is usually possible to carry out thesis and dissertation research on such projects.
Most graduate associates work 20 hours per week, for which they receive a monthly stipend and a fee authorization for tuition. As of Autumn Quarter 2009, the average total stipend for a 50% graduate associate appointment was approximately $1,650/month for 12 months.
Associateship positions generally begin in the autumn quarter and typically are renewable, depending upon the student's performance as a graduate associate, academic performance, and availability of funds. To be eligible for a graduate associateship, applicants must meet all of the admission requirements and apply by the application deadline. Preference for GTA and GRA positions is given to those students whose ultimate degree objective is a Ph.D.
Fellowships
Most graduate fellowship awards provide a monthly stipend and payment of resident and nonresident fees. However, the stipend, terms, and renewability vary with the type of fellowship awarded. Please see the Graduate School Bulletin for details. Graduate fellowships are limited in number and are awarded on a competitive basis each year to applicants who show outstanding scholarly accomplishment and exceptional potential for graduate study. Fellowship appointments generally begin autumn quarter. Fellowship recipients have no duties other than pursuing their graduate degree.
There are two different types of fellowship awards offered by the university:
- Graduate Fellowships - The best applicants are nominated by the department to receive a University Fellowship; these are awarded through a rigorous university-wide competition. Fellowship awards can be anywhere from one to four years.
- Graduate Enrichment Fellowships - This award is very similar to the aforementioned Graduate Fellowships. Students who wish to be nominated for this award must demonstrate the potential to contribute to the diversity of The Ohio State University Graduate School. These are awarded in the same university-wide competition as the Graduate Fellowships and they can be awarded for one or two years.
To be considered for a fellowship beginning in September (Autumn Quarter), your application with the box marked "Fellowship" checked, official GRE scores, and all other application materials must be received by December 15th if you are a domestic applicant, and by November 30th if you are an international applicant. Fellowship applicants must also submit a one-to-two page résumé and they must complete the GRE Verbal, Quantitative, and Writing sections to be eligible for a Fellowship.
Other Fellowship opportunities are available at both the University and the National level. More information about other Fellowship opportunities is provided below.
National Fellowship Competitions
Ford Foundation Doctoral Fellowship
For students in behavioral and social sciences, humanities, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, and biological sciences.
GEM Fellowship Program
For minority students in engineering and sciences.
Hertz Foundation Fellowship
For supporting the graduate education of America's most promising technical talent, the Ph.D.-directed effort of the young men and women who can be expected to have the greatest impact on the application of the physical sciences to human problems during the next half-century.
National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship
The Department of Defense (DoD) is committed to increasing the number and quality of our nation's scientists and engineers. Toward that end, the DoD annually supports approximately 8,000 graduate students in fields important to national defense needs.
National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship
For students in mathematics, sciences, and engineering graduate programs.
US Department of Homeland Security
For students interested in pursuing basic science and technology innovations.
Other Ohio State University Fellowships
Arthur Meier Schlesinger, Sr. Graduate Tuition Fellowship
To be eligible, students must be US citizens or green card holders in good academic standing who show great promise in their field. Requests must demonstrate a compelling need and must be made by the student's Graduate Studies Committee Chair. Students may not apply directly for these funds.
Phi Kappa Phi Scholarships
The Ohio State University Chapter of Phi Kappa Phi is pleased to present scholarships annually to outstanding graduate students. The Chapter will award 2 scholarships in the amount of $1000 each for student use during the 2005-2006 academic year. Any full-time graduate student with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.6 may be considered for the Louise B. C. Vetter Graduate Scholarships. Applications will be accepted from graduate students on the Columbus campus only.
Council of Graduate Students Ray Travel Award for Scholarship and Service
Encourages and enables graduate students across the university to participate in professional conferences, both in their respective fields and in the broader academic community, by reimbursing or partially reimbursing the expenses incurred by graduate students during travel to conferences and meetings to present original research.
http://cgs.org.ohio-state.edu/programs/pdf.shtml
University Post-Doctoral Fellowship Competition
Attracts to Ohio State outstanding recent PhD recipients from all over the world who show exceptional potential as scholars and researchers.
Graduate Research Associates (GRA)
GRA appointments are awarded by individual faculty members based on the interest and qualifications of the student and the availability of project funds. GRA appointments are funded directly by faculty members and are supported by grants from external funding sources. A GRA is responsible for performing research tasks under the direction of the professor by whom he is funded. GRA appointments are awarded throughout the year as grant money becomes available. Applicants should contact individual faculty directly to inquire about possible GRA positions. A list of Faculty members as well as their research interests can be found here. Faculty also review applicant files for statements of purpose that show interest relating to their particular research area.
Graduate Teaching Associateship (GTA)
GTA positions are awarded by the department based on the student’s ability, teaching interest, and departmental needs. In addition to pursuing a graduate degree, a GTA is responsible for 20 hours per week of teaching duties, which could include conducting lab or recitation sessions, grading homework and quizzes, and otherwise assisting the professor with the class. GTA appointments are typically awarded by the department in Spring, for duties beginning the following Autumn.
Focus Areas
These are the four focus areas in Mechanical Engineering. If you click on the item that interests you, then you will be taken to a page with information about each specific area of interest.
How to Apply
Note to Applicants: Due to the large increase in application materials coming into our office, application statuses are updated once a week on Fridays. If you believe you have submitted something and it is not showing up as "Completed", please check back after 5 p.m. on Friday afternoon. If your item is still listed as "Initiated" at that point, then you are welcome to contact megrad_recruit@osu.edu to check on the status of your materials.
Applicants must fulfill admission criteria established by both Graduate School and the Mechanical Engineering program. For specific information and requirements regarding applications to the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Program, please click on the corresponding link below. An applicant whose baccalaureate degree is not from an ABET-accredited department of Mechanical Engineering or equivalent is required to take additional undergraduate work.
Domestic Applicant Information and Requirements
International Applicant Information and Requirements
If you are checking on your application status please use the following link to check the status of your application online: http://www.appstatus.osu.edu/
Domestic Applicant Information
Application Deadlines
| Quarter | Deadline |
| Autumn (September) | December 15 for priority Fellowship and GTA consideration |
| July 1 for general admission | |
| Winter (January) | November 1 |
| Spring (March) | February 1 |
| Summer (June) | May 1 |
Please note that ALL materials (Official transcripts, GRE scores, Statement of Purpose, Three Letters of Recommendation, and a Résumé) must be mailed or received by the date indicated above for the quarter in which you wish to apply.
Please include your full first and last name on any supplemental materials you are submitting, such as a résumé or a statement of purpose. This will help to prevent delays in processing your application.
If you have any questions about the required materials, please contact us at megrad_recruit@osu.edu.
General Application Information
- Complete the application form online at http://www.gradapply.osu.edu/
- If you are interested in possible funding from the department, please check the corresponding box in the "Funding Opportunities" section of the application. There are no additional financial aid forms unless students are seeking loans, in which case the FAFSA may be required. Please check the appropriate Financial Aid box(es) on the application form to request financial assistance from the department.
- Please specify and rank any interest area(s) in the "Specialization, if any" field that you may be considering working in as this helps us identify a potential Faculty contact. The interest areas are AM = Applied Mechanics, DM = Design and Manufacturing, DSC = Dynamic Systems and Controls, EFT = Energy, Fluid, and Thermal Systems.
- Students who are interested in the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) are encouraged to list that in the "Specialization, if any" field in addition to their preferred interest area(s).
- Pay the application fee online
- The application fee is $40 for Domestic students
- If you are unable to apply online or pay the application fee online, please contact the Graduate Admission Office at domestic.grad@osu.edu.
Items That Need To Be Sent To Graduate Admissions
- One set of official transcripts*
- Official GRE scores
- The GRE is required if you meet any one of the following criteria:
- All M.S. and Ph.D. domestic applicants with a cumulative Undergraduate and/or Graduate GPA below 3.3
- All M.S. and Ph.D. applicants who hold a non-engineering baccalaureate degree and/or a degree from a foreign university
- All Ph.D. applicants with a master's degree from a foreign university
- Eligibility in the Fellowship competition.
- The GRE is required if you meet any one of the following criteria:
Mailing Address for Graduate Admissions:
The Ohio State University Graduate Admissions P.O. Box 182004 Columbus, OH 43218-2003 USA
Mailing address for Express mail:
The Ohio State University 3rd Floor Lincoln Tower 1800 Cannon Drive Columbus, OH 43210-1270
Items That Need To Be Sent To Mechanical Engineering
- One set of official transcripts*
- Statement of Purpose
- Should include your goals, your plan of study, your suitability for Graduate School, your strengths, achievements, extra curricular activities, etc. Please keep your statement focused and concise.
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Letters of recommendation must be on official letterhead, signed and mailed to us directly by the recommender in a signed, sealed envelope OR you can have your recommender complete the information online and send it electronically. If you choose to have the recommendation letters submitted online, you must indicate that you are doing so on your application by choosing the option to use the online reference form. Note: You only need to submit the recommendation letters in one format or the other. You do not need to send hard copies of the letters if your recommenders are submitting letters electronically.
- A one or two page résumé (optional)
- A résumé is only necessary if you would like to be considered for a Fellowship.
- If you submitted a copy of your resume online when you submitted your application, you DO NOT need to send a hard copy.
Mailing Address for Mechanical Engineering:
Department of Mechanical Engineering N250F Scott Laboratory 201 West 19th Ave. Columbus, OH 43210-1142 USA
If you would like to save time, you can e-mail your Statement of Purpose and Résumé to megrad_recruit@osu.edu. Please put "Statement of Purpose" and/or "Résumé" as the subject of the e-mail so we know what we are receiving.
*Important Note Regarding Applications If all of your application materials are not received by four weeks prior to the quarter you intend to start, then your application will be cancelled. If your application is cancelled then you will have to reapply to the program for another quarter.
*Important Note Regarding Transcripts for Ohio State Students If you have attended all four years at OSU, and obtained the undergraduate degree here, then official transcripts are not required. The Admissions Office and the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Program Office will pull up the transcript directly from the Registrar's online records upon your request. If you have transferred to OSU from a different university, part way through the undergraduate program, the portion of the transcript that is not from OSU must be received directly by the OSU Admissions Office and the Department of Mechanical Engineering from the previous university.
FAQ's Regarding Admission
Application Questions
What should I include in the Statement of Purpose?
Although there is no fixed format for the statement of purpose, it should include your goals, your plan of study, your suitability for Graduate School, your strengths, achievements, extra curricular activities, etc. Please keep it focused and concise.
What information should a recommendation letter include?
A recommendation letter must have the applicant's name on each page. It generally addresses such topics as the applicant's determination to succeed in a graduate program, performance in academics or research, intellectual independence, research interests, capacity for analytical thinking, ability to work with others, and ability to organize and express ideas clearly.
What types of financial aid are available and how do I apply for them?
There are four mechanisms of support offered by the Mechanical Engineering program. Each pays all tuition and fees in addition to providing a monthly stipend. To apply for one or more of them, please check the appropriate box on the application form under "Financial Aid". For more information on the different funding options, please click on the item that interests you.
- Fellowships
- Graduate Administrative Associate (GAA)
- Graduate Research Associate (GRA)
- Graduate Teaching Associate (GTA)
Questions About the Application Process
How can I check my application status?
Visit the university's web page at:
Can the application fee be waived?
Neither the University nor the Mechanical Engineering Department will waive the application fee. If you were enrolled in a program such as the STARS program or the McNair's Scholar program a waiver may be possible. You will need to contact the person who you worked with in the program for more information on the waiver. Please be aware that if you do get a waiver, it may delay the processing of your application.
What is involved in the application process?
First, all materials must be submitted to the Graduate Admissions Office and the Mechanical Engineering Program as described on the previous page. Second, the Graduate Studies Committee reviews the completed application materials. Third, the Graduate Studies Committee's decisions are conveyed to the Admissions Office. Fourth, the Admissions Office sends an official letter to the applicant.
Can you give me a preliminary assessment of my credentials?
We do not make any evaluations until all of the application materials (including the application fee) have been received.
How many students do you admit each quarter?
There is no fixed number. We admit our best applicants.
GRE, TOEFL, and Other Testing Questions
What are your institution and department codes for ETS (Educational Testing Services)?
The institution code is 1592 and the department code is 1502 for GRE.
Which forms of GRE scores do you accept?
As long as the scores are sent directly by the ETS (Educational Testing Services) to the Ohio State University Admissions Office (Institution Code: 1592; GRE Department Code: 1502) we will accept both Computer Based and Paper Based GRE.
What are the average GRE scores of your students?
We do not compile the average GRE score. The composite GRE for fellowship applicants must be in the 75th percentile or above.
Do I need to take the engineering subject test of the GRE?
No.
General Questions
I have a bachelor's degree, but not a master's degree. Can I apply directly to the Ph.D. program?
Yes, you may apply to the BS-PhD track.
Is Engineering Mechanics in Mechanical Engineering?
Yes. Engineering Mechanics is called Applied Mechanics and is a specialization within the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
International Applicant Information
Application Deadlines
| Quarter | Deadline |
| Autumn (September) | November 30 for priority Fellowship and GTA consideration |
| July 1 for general admission | |
| Winter (January) | November 1 |
| Spring (March) | February 1 |
| Summer (June) | May 1 |
Please note that ALL materials (Official transcripts, GRE scores, Statement of Purpose, Three Letters of Recommendation, and a Résumé) must be mailed or received by the date indicated above for the quarter in which you wish to apply.
Please include your full first and last name on any supplemental materials you are submitting, such as a résumé or a statement of purpose. This will help to prevent delays in processing your application.
If you have any questions about the required materials, please contact us at megrad_recruit@osu.edu.
General Application Information
- Complete the application form online at www.gradapply.osu.edu
- If you are interested in possible funding from the department, please check the corresponding box in the "Funding Opportunities" section of the application. There are no additional financial aid forms. Please check the appropriate Financial Aid box(es) on the application form to request financial assistance.
- Please specify and rank any interest area(s) in the "Specialization, if any" field that you may be considering working in as this helps us identify a potential Faculty contact. The interest areas are AM = Applied Mechanics, DM = Design and Manufacturing, DSC = Dynamic Systems and Controls, EFT = Energy, Fluid, and Thermal Systems.
- Students who are interested in the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) are encouraged to list that in the "Specialization, if any" field in addition to their preferred interest area(s).
- Pay the application fee online
- The application fee is $50 for International students.
- If you are unable to apply online or pay the application fee online, please contact the Graduate Admission Office at international.grad@osu.edu.
Items That Need To Be Sent To Graduate Admissions
Please send only the required items below to the Graduate Admissions Office. Extra items may delay the processing of your application.
- One set of official transcripts*
- Official GRE scores
- Official GRE scores must be submitted directly from ETS. The institution code is 1592 and the department code is 1502 for GRE scores.
- The GRE is required of all international applicants unless they have received a B.S.M.E. from Ohio State.
- While there is no explicit minimum GRE score requirement for applicants with degrees from foreign institutions, in general only applicants with excellent academics and high GRE scores are considered for admission. Excellent GRE scores (typically well above the eightieth percentile) in the Quantitative and Verbal sections are a necessary indicator, but so are a strong transcript (near the top of the class), a well-written, forceful statement of purpose, and enthusiastic letters of recommendation.
- Official TOEFL scores
- Official TOEFL scores must be submitted directly from ETS. The institution code is 1592 and the department code is 68 for TOEFL scores.
- Applicants from English speaking countries (please visit http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/criteria.html for a listing of countries and other criteria as defined by Graduate School) or those who have received a baccalaureate degree or higher from a US institution do not need to take the TOEFL. All other international applicants must take the TOEFL.
Mailing Address for Graduate Admissions:
The Ohio State University Graduate International Admissions P.O. Box 182083 Columbus, OH 43218-2083 USA
Mailing address for Express mail:
The Ohio State University 3rd Floor Lincoln Tower 1800 Cannon Drive Columbus, OH 43210-1270
Items That Need To Be Sent To Mechanical Engineering
Please send only the required items below to the ME Department. Extra items may delay the processing of your application.
- One set of official transcripts*
- Statement of Purpose
- Should include your goals, your plan of study, your suitability for Graduate School, your strengths, achievements, extra curricular activities, etc. Please remember to keep it focused, concise, and limit the length to two pages (single spaced).
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- The letters of recommendation must be on official letterhead, signed and mailed to us directly by the recommender in a signed, sealed envelope OR you can have your recommender's fill out the information online and send it electronically. If you choose to have the recommendation letters submitted online, you must indicate that you are doing so on your application by choosing the option to use the online reference form. Note: You only need to submit the recommendation letters in one format or the other. You do not need to send hard copies of the letters in if your recommenders are submitting the letters electronically.
- A one or two page résumé (optional)
- Only necessary if you would like to be considered for a Fellowship.
- If you submitted a copy of your resume online when you submitted your application, you DO NOT need to send a hard copy.
Mailing Address for Mechanical Engineering:
Department of Mechanical Engineering N250F Scott Laboratory 201 West 19th Ave. Columbus, OH 43210-1142 USA
If you would like to save time, you can e-mail your Statement of Purpose and Résumé to megrad_recruit@osu.edu. Please put "Statement of Purpose" and/or "Résumé" as the subject of the e-mail so we know what we are receiving.
Please DO NOT send bank statements, financial affidavits, or other such items with your initial application as those documents can delay the processing of your application.
*Important Notes Regarding Applications 1) When sending application materials to the department or checking on your application status, please DO NOT include your applicant ID on the information you send us. Your first and last name or e-mail address is all we need to look up your status. The applicant ID is for your use only to check the status of your application using the online system.
2) If all of your application materials are not received by four weeks prior to the quarter you intend to start, then your application will be cancelled. If your application is cancelled then you will have to reapply to the program for another quarter.
*Important Note Regarding Transcripts for Ohio State Students If you have attended all four years at OSU, and obtained the undergraduate degree here, then official transcripts are not required. The Admissions Office and the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Program Office will pull up the transcript directly from the Registrar's online records upon your request. If you have transferred to OSU from a different university, part way through the undergraduate program, the portion of the transcript that is not from OSU must be received directly by the OSU Admissions Office and the Department of Mechanical Engineering from the previous university.
FAQ's Regarding Admission
Application Questions
What should I include in the Statement of Purpose?
Although there is no fixed format for the statement of purpose, it should include your goals, your plan of study, your suitability for Graduate School, your strengths, achievements, extra curricular activities, etc. Please keep it focused and concise.
What information should a recommendation letter include?
A recommendation letter must have the applicant's name on each page. It generally addresses such topics as the applicant's determination to succeed in a graduate program, performance in academics or research, intellectual independence, research interests, capacity for analytical thinking, ability to work with others, and ability to organize and express ideas clearly.
What types of financial aid are available and how do I apply for them?
There are four mechanisms of support offered by the Mechanical Engineering program. Each pays all tuition and fees in addition to providing a monthly stipend. To apply for one or more of them, please check the appropriate box on the application form under "Financial Aid". For more information on the different funding options, please click on the item that interests you.
- Fellowships
- Graduate Administrative Associate (GAA)
- Graduate Research Associate (GRA)
- Graduate Teaching Associate (GTA)
Questions About the Application Process
How can I check my application status?
Visit the university's web page at:
Can the application fee be waived?
Neither the University nor the Mechanical Engineering Department will waive the application fee.
What is involved in the application process?
First, all materials must be submitted to the Graduate Admissions Office and the Mechanical Engineering Program as described on the previous page. Second, the Graduate Studies Committee reviews the completed application materials. Third, the Graduate Studies Committee's decisions are conveyed to the Admissions Office. Fourth, the Admissions Office sends an official letter to the applicant.
Can you give me a preliminary assessment of my credentials?
We do not make any evaluations until all of the application materials (including the application fee) have been received.
How many students do you admit each quarter?
There is no fixed number. We admit our best applicants.
GRE, TOEFL, and Other Testing Questions
What are your institution and department codes for ETS (Educational Testing Services)?
The institution code is 1592; the department code is 1502 for GRE and 68 for TOEFL.
Which forms of GRE and TOEFL scores do you accept?
As long as the scores are sent directly by the ETS (Educational Testing Services) to the Ohio State University Admissions Office (Institution Code: 1592; Department Code: 1502 for GRE and 68 for TOEFL), we will accept both Computer Based and Paper Based GRE and TOEFL test scores.
What are the average GRE and TOEFL scores of your students?
The minimum acceptable TOEFL score is 79 (internet based), 213 (computer based) and 550 (paper based). We do not compile the average GRE score. The composite GRE for fellowship applicants must be in the 75th percentile or above.
Do I need to take the engineering subject test of the GRE?
No.
Do I need to take the TSE (Test of Spoken English) or TWE (Test of Written English)?
No.
General Questions
I have a bachelor's degree, but not a master's degree. Can I apply directly to the Ph.D. program?
Yes, you may apply to the BS-PhD track.
Is Engineering Mechanics in Mechanical Engineering?
Yes. Engineering Mechanics is called Applied Mechanics and is a specialization within the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Inside Scott Laboratory
Scott Laboratory
Below are some pictures from around Scott Laboratory. If you are interested in seeing Scott Laboratory in person, then check out the Visit Us section for more information about upcoming visitation days.
Academic Labs and Shops
For more information about the Academic Labs and shops, go to http://www.mecheng.osu.edu/academic-labs. 
Computational Mechanics Research Laboratory
For more information about the Computational Mechanics Lab, go to http://ghomech1.eng.ohio-state.edu/.
Experimental Mechanics of Materials Laboratory
For more information about the Experimental Mechanics Lab, go to https://oak.eng.ohio-state.edu/emml/.
Gear and Power Transmission Research Laboratory
For more information about the Gear Lab, go to http://www.gearlab.org/.
Intelligent Structures and Systems Laboratory
For more information about the Intelligent Structures and Systems Lab, go to http://www.mecheng.osu.edu/issl/.
Nanoprobe Laboratory for Bio- and Nanotechnology and Biomimetics
For more information about the Nanoprobe Lab, go to http://www.mecheng.osu.edu/nlbb/.
Non-equilibrium Thermodynamics Laboratory
For more information about the Non-equilibrium Thermodynamics Lab, contact Walter Lempert, William Rich, or Vish Subramaniam.
Precision Measurement and Control Laboratory
For more information about the Precision Measurement Lab, go to http://www.mecheng.osu.edu/pmcl.
Smart Materials and Structures Laboratory
For more information about the Smart Materials and Structures Lab, please contact Marcelo Dapino.
Transferring to the ME Graduate Program
First, establish contact with a faculty member in Mechanical Engineering to serve as your advisor, as well as two additional ME faculty members to support your transfer application. Submit the following: (1) A signed Transfer of Program form (available at the Graduate School), (2) a copy of your latest OSU transcript, (3) a copy of your entire academic file obtained from your current graduate program, (4) a statement of purpose explaining why you wish to transfer to ME, and (5) three reference letters from ME faculty members, including the faculty member who has agreed to be your advisor. All requested documents must be submitted as one comprehensive package to the ME Graduate Program at the following address:
Department of Mechanical Engineering
N250F Scott Laboratory
201 W. 19th Avenue
Columbus, OH 43210-1142 USA
Visit Us!
Visiting the Mechanical Engineering Department
Selected prospective graduate students will have an opportunity to visit Scott Laboratory typically held on the 4th Friday of every month (unless otherwise noted) or during our two-day Open House in late February . Students will have an opportunity to visit with a member (or members) of our faculty, tour the building, tour campus (weather permitting), among other things. For more information, please fill out the Graduate Program Information Request Form and we will get in touch with you. Please be sure to mention that you are interested in visiting in the comments section.
If you are interested in visiting, please be sure to give us at least two weeks notice so we can plan accordingly. We will also request a résumé before your visit so we can tailor your visit to your specific interests. If you have any additional questions about setting up a visit, please contact us at megrad_recruit@osu.edu.
- Upcoming Scott Laboratory Visitation Days
- TBD
Graduate Program Information Request Form
The purpose of this form is to provide you with information specific to your interests, and for our department to identify applicants for the graduate program who qualify for University and National Fellowship opportunities.
Please complete and submit the following form. If you meet certain criteria, you will receive a packet within twelve (12) business days that will include information regarding:
•your area(s) of interest
•fellowships and other funding opportunities
•upcoming events
The information you provide on this form is used exclusively by the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Ohio State University and is not disseminated to any other source.
Instructions: All fields with an asterisk ( * ) must be completed. Quotation marks ( ' " `) or the backslash ( ) cannot be used in any field. Submitting this form does not constitute a completion of the application process. Click here for information about applying.