Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I send my application?
Please see How to Apply.
Who do I contact if I have questions about my application?
Please direct all inquiries regarding your application to the Graduate Field Assistant for Statistics (Ms. Diana Drake,
dld8@cornell.edu).
Who is the Director of Graduate Studies?
Currently, Professor Robert Strawderman is the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) for the Field of Statistics.
How many "Statistics Departments" are there at Cornell?
Just one: the Department of Statistical Science (DSS). It is, however, composed of faculty affiliated with several different groups, including: BSCB, Economics,
Electrical and Computer Engineering,
Mathematics, OR&IE and
Social Statistics.
Will you accept photocopies or unofficial GRE and TOEFL scores? What if my scores are five or more years old?
The Admissions Committee can only accept official scores sent directly to us by ETS. If ETS is unable to send us your
test scores because these scores are out of date, then you will need to re-take the exam.
Does Cornell offer a MS degree in Statistics?
We do not consider students for admission to the MS/PhD program who intend to finish the program with a MS degree. If you are interested in a Masters degree in statistics from Cornell University, please apply to Cornell's MPS program in applied
statistics.
What is a Special Masters Degree?
The "Special Masters" degree option no longer exists; the Graduate School has replaced both this degree option and the "Terminal Masters"
degree with the "Non Thesis Masters Degree." The Field of Statistics does not currently offer a MS degree option in statistics to students
pursuing degrees in other fields of study.
What are the minor requirements for students in the Field of Statistics and how is this related to the formation of
my Special Committee?
The Special Committee for each PhD student must contain at least three members. The membership of this committee must represent a certain
combination of subjects and concentrations. The chair of the committee represents the major subject of Statistics, and a specific
concentration within the subject of Statistics. Minimally, the remaining members must either represent:
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Two minor subjects (see the graduate field listings and subjects listed within those fields)
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One minor subject and a second concentration within the subject of Statistics.
What's the difference between the Graduate Field of Statistics and the Graduate Field of Biometry?
The Field of Biometry is for students with a bonafide interest in biological applications, often represented by a minor or a previous
degree. The BSCB website has further information on the Field of Biometry.
Do I really have to go to all these seminars?
Yes! Going to seminars serves several purposes. First, seminars are a good place to meet the faculty and students, and to meet the many
visitors to our departments. Second, seminars report on current work and can give you ideas for new research. Third, seminars provide you
with a benchmark for your progress in the program: your level of understanding should continually improve.
What's expected of TA's & RA's?
Please read Cornell University Policy 1.3 on Graduate Assistantships; further
questions should be directed to the DGS.
I am a foreign student. How do I get summer support without using up my practical training?
Students on J1 and F1 visas are allowed to work for 12 months during or following their graduate programs, on what is called "practical
training"; off-campus summer internships are allowed, but count towards this quota. On-campus jobs, and off-campus internships that count
towards course requirements, do not count towards practical training. Check with the
International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) to determine which departments offer courses
that allow you to do a paid summer internship.
