CoBB Student Handbook 

Below are some questions that applicants have asked about our program. If you have additional questions, please ask us by sending an email to cobb@pitt.edu.

What is the tuition?
Graduate Tuition and Mandatory Fees can be found here.
Is financial assistance available?

All students are responsible for their own tuition.

CoBB does not offer grants or scholarships. Most students finance their education by utilizing Federal Direct loans (unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS), and/or private education loans.
Information on Federal options can be found at studentloans.gov. Private education loans are available through the websites of individual lenders. Private loans are typically issued in the student’s name and require a credit check. A credit worthy cosigner, who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, may be needed if the student’s credit is not sufficient. Students should compare interest rates, fees, and repayment options such as deferment and forbearance. Maximum loan amounts, loan terms, borrower qualification, repayment schedules, and interest rates vary among lenders. Some private education loans may require interest payments while the student is enrolled in school.

If you are going to apply for financial aid, use this link:
https://oafa.pitt.edu/financialaid/applying-for-aid/graduate-school-instructions/

However, there are alternative options to help support you financially during your academic journey, such as paid Research Positions at Pitt and Internships in the Industry. Our university is deeply invested in cutting-edge research across various departments and disciplines. As an MS student, you have the unique opportunity to participate in this research as a paid researcher. These positions are available throughout the year, and not only provide financial remuneration but also offer valuable hands-on experience that can greatly benefit your academic and professional development.

How to Apply for Paid Research Positions

  1. University Job Portal: Visit [Careers at Pitt](https://www.hr.pitt.edu/careers-pitt) to search for available research positions. The portal is updated regularly with new opportunities.
  2. Approach Faculty Directly: If there’s a specific area or project you’re interested in, feel free to approach faculty members directly to inquire about research opportunities. Faculty are often looking for motivated students to assist in their research projects.
When is the deadline to submit my CoBB application?

CoBB enrolls students in the Spring and Fall terms. We encourage to you to submit your application as possible, as the Admissions Committee will begin reviewing files as they are received – it is beneficial to apply and interview early as we accept students until we reach capacity. Applications received after we are at capacity or after the term deadlines will be considered for admission the following term. All required materials must be received by the deadline. Please specify which semester you are applying for in your cover letter.

Spring 2024

Application Open: September 1st, 2023

Deadline to Apply: December 1st, 2023

Classes Begin: January 8th, 2024

Fall 2024

Application Open: September 1st, 2023

Deadline to apply: June 1st, 2024

Classes begin: August 26th, 2024

What is the GPA requirement?
Although we suggest a minimum GPA of 3.0 for a competitive application, all applications will given full consideration.
What materials are required for application?
To apply to CoBB, you will need to submit:

  • Transcripts from all colleges and universities at which you have studied
  • A Personal Statement of roughly 2 pages
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • Some international applicants will also need to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores
  • CoBB Student Handbook can be found here – CoBB Student Handbook
Do I have to submit MCAT, GRE, or DAT scores?
No, CoBB does not require MCAT, GRE or DAT scores.
Do I need to take TOEFL or IELTS?
Applicants who are citizens of countries where English is not the official language (and the Province of Quebec in Canada) are required to submit evidence of English language proficiency by submitting the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo English Test minimum result of 600 paper test, 100 iBT on the TOEFL or a minimum result of Band 7.0 on the IELTS, or 120 on the Duolingo English Test is required for admission to the program. Scores must be less than two years old. Applicants who have earned a bachelor’s degree or a higher degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States are exempt from submitting TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo scores.

A current list of exempt countries can be found at
https://oafa.pitt.edu/apply/admissions-process/international-students/toefl-exceptions/

Do I need health insurance?
Students enrolled in the CoBB Program must have health insurance coverage. You have the option to obtain your own or of enrolling in the University sponsored programs. Review detailed information on the health insurance policies and plans. 
Do I need to upload my official transcripts in my application?
During the application process, we only require unofficial transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended, whether or not a degree is granted.  Official transcripts for all schools listed on the application are required for all applicants who are offered admission and accept the offer. Official transcripts are required to be submitted prior to orientation in August.
How long does it take to complete the CoBB Master’s Program?
Students enrolled full-time can expect to complete the degree in 12-16 months. Part-time students should complete the program in about 2 years. 
Is there an application fee?
The current application fee is $50.
Is this only a full-time program?

CoBB does not require students to be enrolled full-time, and we are continuously expanding our asynchronous and remote offerings; however, courses such as electives may still be offered only during weekdays.