PhD in Computer Science

Applicants must meet the minimum admission requirements of both the University and the School of Computer Science (SoCS). For admission to the thesis-based PhD in Computer Science program, entrants require the following:

1. Thesis-based master's degree in computer science: Admission to the PhD program requires a recognized master’s degree in computer science (or a closely related discipline) that includes a thesis or a major independent project. Successful applicants will also demonstrate good research potential, an ability to critically evaluate experimental or theoretical results and strong communication skills. Evidence for these may be provided by scholarly publications during and/or immediately following their master's degree.
   
2. A minimum B average: Applicants are required to have a minimum average of 75% ('B') during the previous two years of full-time university study for an accredited university graduate degree. For information on international degree admission requirements, please see: International Credential Evaluation and select country. Admission average is calculated using the last 2 years of university-level study.
   

3. A SoCS faculty research advisor: Each PhD candidate will conduct thesis research by working closely with a chosen School of Computer Science (SoCS) faculty research advisor, required to supervise their PhD research. Applicants must identify a secured School of Computer Science (SoCS) Graduate Faculty Advisor BEFORE applying. Finding a SoCS research advisor is mandatory for admission into the PhD.CS program and the responsibility of the applicant.
   
   To find a faculty advisor, we recommend all applicants:

   A. Get in touch with prospective advisors directly, and review related SoCS faculty research areas. You are encouraged to connect to suitable prospective advisors by email.
   
   B. Review current grad opportunities and SoCS current research projects to determine which prospective faculty research advisors in SoCS are currently recruiting graduate students.
   
   C. Consider Tips for Finding a Research Advisor to assist you in communicating effectively with our SoCS faculty members.
   

4. English proficiency test: An English proficiency test will be required for any applicant whose first language is not English.
   

In addition to the Faculty of Graduate Studies Requirements, the School of Computer Science (SOCS) requires all of the documentation noted on the application page including:

1. Academic Transcripts
2. A current resume or CV (including publications)
3. A Statement of Interest (maximum 1500 words); the applicant:
   • Should describe the general area of research in which they are interested
   • May also describe a specific research problem in the area and their initial ideas on how to approach it
   • Should summarize the related research and refer to publications where appropriate
4. Three Academic References
5. A test of English proficiency is required of all applicants whose first language is not English. The English language requirements for the PhD program are higher than other programs. Required scores are shown below:

• TOEFL (and TOEFL Special Home Edition): 100, speaking and writing 25, at least 21 in each category
• IELTS (and Computer-delivered IELTS): 7.0, at least 6.5 for each component
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE-A): 60, a minimum score of 60 must be achieved in each individual component.
• Canadian Academic English Language Test (CAEL): 70, writing and speaking 70, no score lower than 60
• University of Guelph English Language Certificate at the Advanced Level
• DuoLingo Test: 120

*Please note, the test may not be more than two years old. The proof of English proficiency requirement may be waived in exceptional circumstances. For example, applicants may be eligible for an English Waiver who have conferred a degree in a country where English is the native language AND in a university where English is the language of instruction (e.g. Canada, UK, USA, Australia, etc.). School of Computer Science (SoCS) Graduate Admissions Committee approval is required.

6. The Declaration of Committement form is an additional document required for applicants of the One Health Collaborative Specialization ONLY

7. The GRE is NOT required for admission

The PhD in Computer Science (PhD.CS) is a full­-time, four-­year program (12 semesters of continuous enrollment) during which students will complete the Technical and Communication Research Methodology course (CIS*6890) and two additional graduate courses selected in consultation with their Advisory Committee. Students will also give two public seminars, pass a qualifying exam, conduct research and successfully defend a written PhD thesis at the final oral examination.

Application processing times may vary and take approximately two to three months for decision. As such, is in your best interest to secure your research advisor and submit your application (and all required supporting documentation) early. Our application deadline dates for each semester of enrolment are as follows:*

• Winter 2027:
  • International: Closed
  • Domestic: October 1, 2026
• Spring 2027:
  • International: November 1, 2026
  • Domestic: February 1, 2027
• Fall 2027:
  • International: March 1, 2027
  • Domestic: June 1, 2027

*The application deadlines are for both Domestic and International applicants. We strongly encourage International applicants to apply a minimum of 9 months in advance of the semester's start date to ensure study permits can be processed in time for admission. Please see the Office of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies Recommendations for International Applicants for suggested application timeline.

Important: Please ensure you have all required application documentation submitted by the specified deadline, or your application will be considered incomplete.

Normally, PhD students are (at minimum) partially funded by the School of Computer Science. That is, a minimum funding stipend of $25,000 per year is guaranteed to all international and domestic PhD students who are able to secure a graduate faculty advisor and secure admission to the program. Funding is provided as a combination of Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) and Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA).

Scholarships

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply for the following scholarships:

• Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC): Domestic students only; deadlines are normally in the fall
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): Domestic and International students; deadlines are normally in early winter

For more information about types of funding and scholarships available, please visit SoCS Fees, Funding and Scholarships.

Visit Guelph Graduate Fees for the costs of graduate program tuition and fees at the University of Guelph. Please also review the cost of living information for domestic and international students to determine the approximate cost of living fees (as these are in addition to tuition).

If you are applying to a thesis-based MSc or PhD graduate program in the School of Computer Science (SoCS), you will need to find a graduate faculty research advisor as securing an advisor to supervise your thesis research is required for admission.

Before contacting members of our graduate faculty, we strongly recommend visiting current available opportunities and reviewing the following tips (below) to optimize the success of your communications:

1. Be informed: Ensure you review the SoCS faculty Areas of Research of our graduate faculty before contacting them. Take some time to review their information, publications and the specifics of each faculty member's research.
   
2. Use concise, targeted communication: Graduate faculty advisors receive numerous emails from prospective graduate students on a daily basis. Therefore, as most faculty members have very limited time, you must communicate your information as clearly and concisely as possible. Use short paragraphs, keep the length of your email to a minimum, use a descriptive email title and be professional.
   
3. Stand out from the crowd: Highlight specific and clear reasons why you would be a good candidate for working with the chosen faculty member. Include information that will set you apart from other candidates such as notable achievements/scholarships, publications, similar research interests and/or related experience.
   
4. Communicate early: Start contacting faculty members at least 9-12 months in advance of the application deadlines. Finding an advisor can sometimes take months to establish.
   
5. Be patient: Our graduate faculty members are very busy, especially during the start and end of the semester. Therefore, it may take some faculty members days or even weeks to respond to your email. Follow up only after if it has been a few weeks with no response.
   
6. Reach out to multiple faculty: We recommend reaching out to multiple faculty members (not just one or two), as connecting with a larger number of potential faculty members may increase your chances of recruitment.

Applicants also have the option to apply for a collaborative specialization in One Health while pursuing a thesis-based PhD degree in Computer Science.