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How to Apply

Applications for the Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in hotel administration are available online through the Cornell University Graduate School.  For those considering the MS degree, please do not apply to the professional Master of Management in Hospitality (MMH) program.

Application Deadline and Admissions Timeline

MS and PhD programs begin in the fall term, starting in August. Applications and all supporting materials are due by December 15 for the subsequent fall term. The Admissions Committee will review all completed applications and invite the strongest candidates for personal interviews with members of our graduate faculty.

Application Requirements

  • Submit the graduate program application form to Cornell’s Graduate School by December 15 for the subsequent fall term you wish to enroll.
  • Include a personal statement by describing how your personal background and experiences influenced your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Additionally, it should provide insights into your potential to contribute to Cornell University’s core value to provide a community of inclusion, belonging, and respect where scholars representing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and experiences can learn and work productively and positively together.
  • Include an Academic Statement of Purpose.
  • Submit the application fee with the online application.
  • Submit a resume or CV that includes a detailed description of dates and specific duties performed for each job.
  • Arrange to take the GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) or GRE (Graduate Records Examination). A GMAT or GRE test score is required. Have your GMAT score report sent to Cornell University Graduate School using the institutional code 5811, or your GRE score report sent using the institutional code 2098. More information can be found on the Graduate School’s website.
  • Transcripts from all prior academic institutions attended are required. Please upload a PDF copy of transcripts from each institution, including any at which you are currently enrolled and/or from any institution from which you have received or will receive a degree.
  • Students who have completed degrees outside the U.S. are encouraged to review their degree eligibility by submitting an evaluation of their transcripts that provides the U.S. equivalent of the credits earned (for example, by the World Education Services). If your transcript is not in English, please submit an original copy as well as an official and certified English translation.
  • Submit at least two original letters of recommendation. One letter should be from a college-level academic instructor, and one should be from an employer or professional reference.
  • Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement required by the Graduate School.