RI | Graduate Education

International Students in the Robotics Masters Program

Self-supported

Self-supported international students who attend the Robotics Institute's Masters degree program must finish the degree in one year (12 months). The Office of International Education at Carnegie Mellon University will not extend a visa unless there is an extenuating circumstance that prevents a student from finishing in 12 months. An example of an extenuating circumstance would be health issues.

Even a transition from self-supported status to faculty-sponsored status is insufficient grounds for visa extension, and international students should be aware of this before beginning the Masters program.

Self-supported international students in the Masters degree program are not permitted to use Curricular Practical Training. Upon completion of the 12-month Masters program, the student should apply for Optional Practical Training.

Full-time self-supported students enrolling in January 2007 or thereafter must finish the Masters degree in no more than 16 months.

Full financial support from the Robotics Institute

Masters students who receive full financial support from the Robotics Institute should complete the Masters degree in no more than two years (24 months). The Office of International Education at Carnegie Mellon University will not extend a visa unless there is an extenuating circumstance that prevents a student from finishing in those 24 months. Students that receive full financial support may choose to use Curricular Practical Training only if 1) they are here for a minimum of two semesters, and 2) their advisor gives their permission for the student to go on an internship.