Admission Process

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to fellow program?

The School of Design Sciences (“DESC”) Fellowship Program uses an online application process

  • Apply at least two to four weeks ahead of your program’s application deadline to ensure you have time to upload your supporting documents, and your referees have time to submit their reference forms.
  • Create an online application account. You may have only one fellowship online application account. Please direct any online application account process questions to our application team fellowapply@sesds.com
  • Select your program: choose one “attendance type” (full-time or part-time) and one “type of program” (coursework + thesis or research paper). If you would like to be considered for more than one option connect with the program directly.
  • Enter the required application information.

What is the application fee?

You must pay a non-refundable application fee of US$150 with each program application.

Do you require GRE, GMAT scores?

No, The School of Design Sciences does not require or use GRE, GMAT or any competitive exam scores. However, we encourage you to submit your scores to supplement your application and set yourself apart in this competitive admission process. 

What is the difference between Junior and Senior Research Fellowship?

Only PhD candidates and Post-doctoral researchers who are participating in academic program in order to continue their research activities are considered for “Senior Fellowship” research.

Can you send me an application?

All applications must be submitted online (see above). Paper applications, including recommendation letters, will not be accepted.

Is this program offered to a specific company?

The program is open to all individuals and organizations irrespective of their size and nature of their business.

I am not in leadership role, can I still participate in the Fellowship Program?

This is not a requirement. Applicants who are not in leadership role of an organization, but intend to upgrade or update their skills in emerging digital and computing roles in progressing career within an organization, are encouraged to participate in the fellowship. However, keep in mind that the Fellowship Program prefers, although not necessary, applicants with at least 3-5 years of industry experience either in business or technology domain.

What format should I use for documents and supporting materials?

Please upload .doc, docx or .pdf documents only.

When will I learn if I have been selected?

Confirmation letters are emailed to you directly. No information is given out by telephone.

Will it be possible for me to have an interview?

Interviews are by invitation only, and conducted during the application review process.

Is the Fellowship program affiliated to any Institution or Corporation?

No. The Fellowship is a professional program organized for represented companies and organizations. Simon-Erdős School of Design Sciences and STATGRAF Research work with international faculties who are affiliated to various Universities and Institutions including ETH Zurich, University of Cambridge, UK, Copenhagen Business School, Denmark and several others.

How do DESC participants study for their courses?

Typically studying routine for classes at DESC depends largely on 3 factors: 1) how difficult the concepts are to grasp, 2) how much content there is to learn and apply in your area of research, and frankly, 3) how much do you care about your own passion and interest to create something great for industry and communities.

All we ask: don’t be afraid to be the guy who asks questions – to faculties and to your group members. As many times faculty and group members will assume knowledge about a particular concept or topic that is not so obvious to the rest of the class.

Can you tell me my chances of my admittance?

No. There are many factors beyond minimum requirements that are considered during the admissions process; thus, we cannot give applicants feedback on likelihood of acceptance.

Can I visit and tour the STATGRAF’s research facility?

The STATGRAF Research is an academic, research laboratory, and does not offer tours of the research areas of the facility to the general public. STATGRAF Research does not offer tours. However, if you wish to visit the academic facility in advance, you should contact specific representative to make arrangements to meet with them and their Fellowship participants. Facility and contact information are available on request.

I work for a STATGRAF Research’s member company. How do I arrange a visit?

Contact your account manager. If you’re logged in, their contact information can be accessed via the STAGE page (password required).

Can I intern at STATGRAF Research during or after this academic program?

Yes. STATGRAF Research hires fellows from DESC only through internal referral system.

As a member company, can I access all the work of STATGRAF and DESC?

Yes, you are allowed to see ONLY the section of your research. Please contact your account manager.

I am involved with a non-profit group that is very close to the STATGRAF’s mission. How do I ask whether a tour might be possible for us?

You can contact us via the contact page and ask. Please be aware that we need at minimum four weeks of lead time. 

After You've Applied

Thank you for applying to the DESC. Please use our quick reference guide below to better understand the admission process once your application has been submitted.

  • Update your application, if necessary
  • Understand the admission review process
  • Wait for your admission decision
  • Review your offer letter
  • Learn more about the conditions of admissionlisted in your offer
  • Check out the new participant page to prepare for the start of term

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