USA · Master's
Harvard University (John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences)
SM in Computational Science and Engineering
Harvard University (John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences)
Course Overview
Harvard SEAS does not offer a standalone MS in Computer Science — its computing-focused master's is the SM in Computational Science and Engineering (CSE), a research-leaning 12-month program co-taught with the Department of Computer Science. Students take 8 courses spanning systems, algorithms, applied machine learning, scientific computing and a capstone, with direct access to faculty from the Kempner Institute and Harvard's AI cluster.
For Sri Lankan applicants with a strong CS or quantitative background, this is the most realistic Harvard route into US tech and research roles. Crucially, CSE is a STEM-designated program — graduates qualify for 12 months of F-1 OPT plus a 24-month STEM extension, giving a 3-year runway to convert to H-1B.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or a related quantitative field (GPA 3.7+ equivalent expected from Sri Lankan applicants).
- check_circle Strong programming background and coursework in linear algebra, calculus, probability and data structures.
- check_circle GRE is optional but recommended for international applicants without US/UK academic credentials.
- check_circle Three letters of recommendation (academic preferred) plus a statement of purpose and CV.
English Proficiency
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 80 minimum (100+ competitive).
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 6.5 minimum (7.5+ competitive).
- check_circle Duolingo English Test is not accepted.
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount (USD) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition Fee | USD 65,536 | Rs. 20,972,000 |
| Health Insurance & University Fees | USD 5,500 | Rs. 1,760,000 |
| Living Expenses (Cambridge, 9 months) | USD 26,000 | Rs. 8,320,000 |
| SEVIS + F-1 Visa + Travel | USD 1,300 | Rs. 416,000 |
| Total Programme Investment | USD 98,336 | Rs. 31,468,000 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
STEM-designated — eligible for 12 months of F-1 OPT plus a 24-month STEM extension (36 months total). Harvard SEAS master's alumni place into Google, Meta, Microsoft, Two Sigma, Citadel, and into top US PhDs (MIT, Stanford, CMU). The H-1B lottery is the realistic gating step for long-term US work.
Related Programs
MS in Computer Science
Stanford University
MS in Computer Science
University of Southern California (Viterbi School of Engineering)
MS in Data Science
New York University (Center for Data Science)
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