If you have majored in other fields and you are encouraged to apply if you have been exposed to have mastered basic computer programming skills and basic knowledge of mathematics for science, including calculus and statistics. The best preparation for graduate work in cognitive science normally comes from degrees in psychology, computer science, philosophy, or linguistics, as well as in cognitive science itself. Students who have majored in other fields, such as sociology, political science, biology, mathematics, and music, are encouraged to apply if they have been exposed to a wide range of coursework as undergraduates. In exceptional cases, the programming or mathematics admission requirements may be waived and satisfied while pursuing graduate study.

Except in special cases, references should be from academic faculty. We ask for three letters, but you may submit more. For example, if you have experience as a teaching assistant, an additional letter from your teaching supervisor attesting to your teaching abilities could help your application for aid. Keep in mind that the committee is trying to evaluate your potential to successfully complete an advanced degree at IU, so provide us with references that can illuminate your potential performance as a graduate student. Try to get up-to-date letters. If you have spent the past two years at the University of Fredonia but none of your letters is from faculty there, it might raise questions in the minds of the admissions committee.

We do not require scores for a GRE area exam. We do not have cut-offs for GRE scores, preferring instead to use the full information available in your dossier.

This is your chance to explain to us what your plans are. Briefly convey your vision of the future of cognitive science if you wish, but also try to give us an idea of your personal plan of action for the future. We are aware that such plans can and should change rapidly, particularly in a fast-moving area like cognitive science. You should tell us which research areas you are most interested in and describe any research experiences you have had. You can use the statement of purpose to explain any anomalies in your record, but in general dwelling on the past is backward-looking—what you want to communicate is your forward-looking plan.

You need a transcript from all previous undergraduate institutions attended, and the university requires at least one that certifies that you have received a bachelor's degree (or “bachelor's equivalent” for international students).