The Ohio State University

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:

• http://www.appstatus.osu.edu

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.