FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The College of Engineering does not accept hard copies of application documents, other than official transcripts and test scores. All supporting documents should be uploaded through the applicant’s personal web portal on the Graduate Admission Management and Evaluation System (GAMES) using their unique login credentials.
We are happy to provide support on navigating the GAMES web site. Please e-mail your respective program staff or the Office of Graduate Programs (gradengineering@unl.edu or 402-472-1952) for assistance.
Prospective Students
What is the deadline to apply for admission?
While there is no set deadline for Ph.D. applicants, it is recommended that international applicants have a complete file no later than 90 days prior to the first day of classes. Domestic students should have a complete file no later than 60 days prior to the start of classes.
FOR FINANCIAL CONSIDERATION
Summer/Fall: February 15 Spring: October 15
Can I take a course without seeking a degree?
Students interested in taking courses but not yet ready to begin a degree program should apply for non-degree post-baccalaureate admission. Use the same application as for those seeking a degree located at http://gradapp.unl.edu.
Will a course I take as a non-degree seeking student count toward degree requirements later?
Non-degree students intending to apply courses toward a degree program later should consult the department of interest. Some departments have specific requirements about accepting course work undertaken while in a non-degree status.
What should I do to complete my application file?
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Completed application for admission
$45 application fee (U.S. currency) - Official GRE scores (requirement is program specific)
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume
- International applicants must also provide an official TOEFL score and a completed Financial resource Certification form
The UNL Graduate Admission Management and Evaluation System (GAMES) is an online system for managing supplemental application materials for departments and students. Applicants in these programs will receive an e-mail explaining the system.
We are happy to provide support on navigating the GAMES web site. Please e-mail your respective program staff, or the Office of Graduate Programs (gradengineering@unl.edu or 402-472-1952) for assistance.
What are the minimum requirements required for admission to an engineering graduate program?
GRE score: Most departments do not set minimum required scores, but GRE scores may weigh heavily (in combination with other factors) in the admission decision. Applicants whose native language is not English must present one of the following as proof of English proficiency:Official TOEFL score: at least 500 (or 173 computer-based test) Official MELAB score: at least 75 Official IELTS score at least 6.0 Degree (bachelor's or higher) received from an institution at which English is the official language of instruction
I took the GRE (or TOEFL) several years ago. Do I need to re-take it?
Departments will determine whether GRE scores are recent enough to accept. TOEFL scores are considered current for two years from the test date.
Who should provide letters of recommendation?
You should provide three letters of recommendation from individuals who are familiar with your past academic history as well as your potential.
Where should I send these documents?The College of Engineering will no longer be accepting hard copies of application documents, other than official transcripts and test scores. All supporting documents will need to be uploaded through the applicant’s personal web portal on GAMES using their unique login credentials.
We are happy to provide support on navigating the GAMES web site. Please e-mail your respective program staff, or the Office of Graduate Programs (gradengineering@unl.edu or 402-472-1952) for assistance.
Official transcripts and test scores should be mailed to:
Office of Graduate Studies
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
1100 Seaton Hall
Lincoln NE 68588-0619
How long will it take to receive a decision on my application?
Once your application file is complete, please allow 6-8 weeks for a decision. You will be notified via surface mail once a decision is made.
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Completed application for admission
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Admitted Students - Lincoln Campus
When should I be on campus?
It is recommended that graduate students arrive on campus at least one week prior to the start of the semester.
Where should I go when I get to campus?
A Graduate Student Orientation will be scheduled and posted on the Web site. You should also check in with your department office, which will have the information you need regarding fellowships and assistantships, as well as working with faculty advisers. If you do not know the location of your department office, please contact the College of Engineering Dean's Office at (402) 472-3181.
How do I get a Nebraska driver's license?
Department of Motor Vehicles (http://dmv.state.ne.us):
500 W "O" St (402) 471-2823
625 N 46th St (402) 471-3008 (Express Service Station)
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday
If you plan on driving while attending the university, it is recommended you familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of driving in Nebraska. Manuals are available online at the DMV web site and at local exam stations. If you need to obtain a Nebraska driver's license, you can also do so at the local exam stations. Individuals attending school in Nebraska full-time (at least 12 credit hours) and whose vehicles are currently registered in their home state do not have to register their vehicle in Nebraska. Students should have their Student Identification Cards in their possession at all times when operating the motor vehicle in case they are asked by law enforcement to produce evidence of student status.
How do I find an apartment?
Many graduate students take advantage of the wide range of off-campus housing close to both campuses. For a current listing of available off-campus housing, roommate listings, and landlord/tenant information, contact the Commuter Student Services at (402) 472-2585 or visit the student association (ASUN) web site at http://www.unl.edu/asun/. Want ads for apartments and houses for rent can also be found in the Lincoln Journal Star and at http://www.offcampushousingguide.com.Lincoln Utility Companies
Lincoln Electric System (LES)
11th and "O" Streets
Lincoln, NE 68508
(402) 475-4211People's Natural Gas
1600 Windhoek Dr
Lincoln, NE 68512
1-800-303-0752Lincoln Water System
555 S. 10th Street
Lincoln, NE 68508
(402) 441-7551Time-Warner Cable
5400 S. 16th Street
Lincoln, NE 68512
(402) 421-0300
How many credit hours must I enroll for?
Different programs have different enrollment requirements, but to be considered a full-time student, you must be enrolled for a minimum of nine credit hours per semester.
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Admitted Students - Omaha Campus
When do I need to be on campus?
It is recommended that graduate students arrive on campus at least one week prior to the start of the semester.
Where should I go when I get to campus?
You should check in with your department office, which will have the information you need regarding fellowships and assistantships, as well as working with faculty advisers. If you do not know the location of your department office, call (402) 554-6009.
How do I get a Nebraska driver's license?
Department of Motor Vehicles (http://dmv.state.ne.us):
7425 Dodge St. (402) 595-2038
4107 South 24th St (402) 595-2039
7414 North 30th (402) 595-2040
5306 South 136th St (402) 595-2424
2918 North 108th St (402) 595-3106
Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday If you plan on driving while attending the university, you should familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of driving in Nebraska. Manuals are available online at the DMV web site and at local exam stations. If you need to obtain a Nebraska driver's license, you can also do so at the local exam stations. Individuals attending school in Nebraska full-time (at least 12 credit hours) and whose vehicles are currently registered in their home state do not have to register their vehicle in Nebraska. Students should have their Student Identification Cards in their possession at all times when operating the motor vehicle in case they are asked by law enforcement to produce evidence of student status.
How do I find an apartment?
Most students based in Omaha choose to live off campus. Off Campus Housing Information is located in the Administrative Offices of the Milo Bail Student Center. You will find the office in the northwest corner of the second floor. For housing assistance, stop by or call (402) 554-2383. You may also want to check the Omaha World Herald, rental magazines, and real estate agencies.
http://mbsc.unomaha.edu/och.phpOmaha Utility Companies
Omaha Public Power District
3319 L St Omaha, NE 68107
(402) 536-4131Metropolitan Utilities District (Gas & Water)
1723 Harney St Omaha, NE 68102
(402) 554-6666Cox Communications (Cable, Phone, High Speed Internet)
11505 W Dodge Rd
Omaha, NE 68154
(402) 933-4000Qwest Communications (Cable, Phone, High Speed Internet
(800) 244-1111
(402) 691-1999
How many credit hours must I enroll for?
Different programs have different enrollment requirements, but to be considered a full-time student, you must be enrolled for a minimum of nine credit hours per semester.
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Especially for International Students
Where should I go when I get to campus?
Report to International Affairs, 420 University Terrace, Lincoln.
Do I have to have health insurance?
If so, how do I get it? Health insurance (with a death benefit) is required by the University of Nebraska to comply with immigration regulations. The university offers a reasonably priced health insurance plan. You will receive information on applying for this health plan in your admission packet.
How do I get a social security number?
You may apply for a social security number during the international student orientation. At that time, you will receive the necessary information to apply for a social security number.
How/where do I buy car insurance?
Nebraska auto insurance laws require that every driver carry auto liability insurance. This coverage helps insure you against the cost of injury and damage you may cause to someone else in an auto accident.
Nebraska auto insurance laws require minimum liability limits of 25/50/25 ($25,000 per person for injuries you cause to the other party, up to $50,000 for all, and $25,000 for damage you cause to the other party's property).
Nebraska auto insurance laws also require that you purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage. These policies apply when another driver with inadequate liability coverage causes injury to you. The required minimums on these policies are also 25/50 ($25,000 for injuries per person, up to $50,000).
However, these are only minimums, and carrying higher levels of both liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is strongly recommended in addition to optional coverage such as medical payments, collision, and comprehensive.
There are several auto insurance companies that offer plans to Nebraska drivers, including Geico, Allstate, State Farm and Progressive. Check the Yellow Pages or the Web to find an auto insurance provider that will best suit your needs.
