GRAD ECHO

In the US, application fees typically range from $50 to $100 per application. In Europe, many universities, particularly in Germany and the Nordic countries (e.g., Sweden, Norway), have low or no application fees. When fees exist, they range from €50 to €100.

Fee waivers are more commonly offered by US universities, particularly for applicants who demonstrate financial need. In contrast, fee waivers are less common in European universities. One should check directly with universities for availability of such waivers.

The ideal number of universities to apply to varies based on individual circumstances, but in my experience, targeting 8-12 universities is usually sufficient.

Applying to a less competitive, CS-adjacent program to transfer to CS later is a strategy some students consider. However, several factors need to be considered when thinking about such an option. For instance, transfer policies can be uncertain, as changing programs are often competitive and not guaranteed, varying widely between universities. Additionally, some CS programs have prerequisites that are difficult to meet if you start in a different program. Thus, it is important to have a backup plan in case one is unable to transfer.

From an ethical perspective, it's important to ensure that the application accurately reflects the applicants’ true intentions and interests. Fairness is another consideration, as applying to a less competitive program solely to transfer might limit opportunities for students genuinely interested in that field.

As an alternative strategy, you may like to consider broadening your application pool by applying to both highly competitive and less competitive schools to balance your chances. Enhancing one’s profile with relevant projects and internships can improve chances of direct admission to more competitive CS programs. One can also consider other pathways by looking into schools with strong CS programs that may not be in the top 20 but still offer excellent education and opportunities. Finally, you may consider Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering programs, as they often involve significant CS work and can provide a solid foundation in computing without the need for a transfer.