Admission to the Chemical and Nano Engineering graduate programs are in accordance with the general requirements of the Division of Graduate Education & Postdoctoral Affairs, which requires at least a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in some branch of engineering, sciences, or mathematics; an overall GPA of 3.0; and three letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the academic or professional competence and to the depth of the applicant's interest in pursuing graduate study.
For Fall 2027 admissions, submission of GRE scores is optional for MS candidates but mandatory for PhD candidates. Demonstrated proficiency in the English language is required for all international applicants. The university-wide minimum TOEFL score required for consideration for graduate admission is 64 for the Paper-delivered Test, and 85 for the internet based test (iBT). The university-wide minimum IELTS Academic Training exam score required for consideration for graduate admission is Band Score 7. The minimum PTE Academic score required for graduate admission is overall score 65. The minimum Duolingo English Test minimum total score required for consideration for graduate admission is 120. Students who score below the required scores are strongly encouraged to enroll in an English as a second language program before beginning graduate work. UC San Diego Extended Studies offers an excellent English language program during the summers as well as the academic year. More information on English Language Proficiency.
Applicants are judged competitively, and based on the candidate's background, qualifications, and goals. Chemical Engineering applicants should have an applicable chemical engineering background. For more information, please visit the graduate application for admission website or the list of admission frequently asked questions and answers.
Official transcripts and hard copy materials do not need to be sent to Graduate Admissions until an admission offer is made (please do not send documents to the department).
M.S. Application Opens: September 2, 2026, Application Deadline: July 14, 2027
Ph.D. Application Opens: September 2, 2026, Application Deadline: December 11, 2026
- Master's Programs Information Sessions
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More information to come--stay tuned!
- PhD Programs Information Sessions
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More information to come--stay tuned!
Nondiscrimination Statement: In accordance with applicable Federal and State law and University policy, the University of California does not discriminate, or grant preferences, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories.
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More information about the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy can be found here.