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Future Student FAQ

Use our future student FAQ to find the answers to your common questions about the NC State Industrial and Systems Engineering Program.

Last Updated: 02/24/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date

Welcome to the Future Student FAQ, your resource for answers about the NC State Industrial and Systems Engineering Program. Need more help? Contact our program coordinator at ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu.

Admissions

Can I still submit my GRE scores to my application?

You are welcome to upload your test scores with your application. First, focus on presenting your strongest materials. Keep in mind that we do not review your application based on one factor. Instead, we evaluate your materials as a complete package.

For example, we consider your online application and your statement of purpose. In addition, we review your official test scores and your transcripts. We also value your letters of recommendation. As a result, each part of your application helps us understand your strengths.

Although test scores are optional, they can enhance your application. Therefore, if you want to strengthen your materials, you should submit your GRE scores. By doing so, you can provide additional evidence of your academic readiness.

Am I qualified to apply to your graduate program?

If you are excited about our program, we encourage you to apply. First, review the admissions requirements so you understand what to submit.

If your GRE, TOEFL or IELTS scores are below our suggested minimums, you can retake the test. As a result, you may strengthen your application and show your growth. Keep in mind that we review each application carefully. Instead of focusing on one factor, we consider your materials as a complete package.

For example, we review your online application and your statement of purpose. In addition, we consider your official test scores and your transcripts. We also value your letters of recommendation and your research experience.

If you are applying to our Ph.D. program from an MS program, you can highlight your research experience. Therefore, be sure to share the projects you completed. Additionally, you may submit a letter of recommendation from your research advisor to further support your application.

I would like to submit certificates of accomplishments, a resume and other documents. Where should I send them?

Please submit all supplemental documents online through the NC State University Graduate School Online Application. First, gather your materials before you begin the upload process.

Next, upload your Statement of Purpose in the “Personal Statement” section. Then, upload your resume in the “Resume/CV” section. If needed, you may also upload additional documents in the “Other Documents” section.

Please follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth review process. However, do not send hard copy documents to the ISE Department or the Graduate School. Instead, submit all materials through the online system. As a result, we can review your application more efficiently.

I would like to defer my admission to a future semester. How do I request a deferral?

If you need to defer your admission, please email ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu. First, include your full name and your 9-digit NC State Student ID number. Next, list the program and semester you were admitted to. Then, state the semester you would like to defer to and explain your reasons in detail. After that, make sure your explanation clearly describes your situation. However, both the Director of Graduate Programs and the Graduate School must approve your request. Therefore, submit complete information to avoid delays.

You may defer your admission for up to one year. In other words, you can defer for two academic semesters. Please plan carefully so you stay within this limit.

How and when should I apply for North Carolina Residency?

If you are a domestic out-of-state student, you can review residency information online. First, visit the Residence Status website for clear guidance. There you will find details on the requirements and the application process. In addition, you can learn how residency decisions may affect your tuition.

As you explore the site, follow the steps carefully. If you have questions, you can use the listed resources for support. By reviewing this information early, you can plan ahead with confidence.

Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.

Application Process

I have submitted my online application and all supplemental documents, but my application status still shows as “incomplete” or “submitted.” Is my application “complete” and under review?

If your application status shows “Submitted” and each supplemental document shows “complete” your application is now under review. At this point, our admissions committee is carefully evaluating your materials.

Sometimes your application may appear incomplete at first. However, this usually means the system is still processing your materials. Therefore, you can check your status anytime through the online application portal. As each document arrives, the Graduate School will update it to “complete.”

You will not see the status of your Areas of Interest Form in the online system. Instead, you can quickly check its status in GradWatch.

If you recently submitted your application and paid the fee, your file may temporarily show “incomplete.” Specifically, it will update once we receive your recommendation letters and attach your test scores. ETS sends GRE and TOEFL scores electronically to NC State University. Although it may take several weeks to receive and match scores, the process moves forward steadily. If anything is missing, the ISE Department will gladly notify you and help you.

How long does it take to receive a decision?

Thank you for your interest in our Graduate Program in Industrial and Systems Engineering at North Carolina State University. We truly appreciate the time and effort you invested in your application.

In addition, we are grateful for your patience throughout the review process. Our admissions committee carefully evaluates each application. Therefore, you can expect a decision within three to eight weeks after your application becomes complete.

How do I submit my GRE, TOEFL or IELTS scores to NC State University?

Please send your official GRE and TOEFL scores electronically through the Educational Testing Service. When you request your scores, use the NC State University Institution Code 5496. You do not need to select a department code. As a result, your scores will be routed correctly to the university.

To submit your IELTS scores, email your TRF number or a copy of your score sheet to the Graduate School Admissions Office at graduate_applications@ncsu.edu. Then, the admissions staff will access your official scores on the IELTS website. After that, they will upload your scores to your online application.

Alternatively, you may mail a hard copy official IELTS score report to the Graduate School Admissions Office. In either case, be sure to follow the steps carefully so we can process your scores smoothly.

Graduate School Admissions Office
North Carolina State University
Campus Box 7102 / 1020 Main Campus Drive
Raleigh, NC 27695 USA

Do I need to submit my official transcripts when I submit my application?

No, you do not need to submit your official transcripts when you apply. Instead, you can complete your application without sending official copies at that time.

However, you must submit your official transcripts and degree statements no later than one month into your first semester. Therefore, please plan ahead to gather these documents early. By preparing in advance, you can ensure a smooth start to your program.

When you are ready, mail your official transcripts to the Graduate School Admissions Office at the address listed. This step will help finalize your enrollment and keep you on track.

Graduate School Admissions Office
North Carolina State University
Campus Box 7102 / 1020 Main Campus Drive
Raleigh, NC 27695 USA

Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.

Accepted Admission / Next Steps

I have accepted my admission offer. What do I do now? Who is my faculty academic advisor?

After you receive an offer of admission to one of our graduate programs, we will assign you an Interim Academic Advisor. Soon after, once we receive your intent to enroll, the ISE Graduate Office will email you with next steps.

As an incoming student, you can contact your academic advisor with questions about coursework or specialty areas. In addition, your advisor can help you plan which courses to take to meet degree requirements. Therefore, you will have guidance as you begin your program.

Before meeting with your advisor, review the ISE Department Plan of Work. Specifically, read it for details about breadth requirements and other important guidelines. By preparing in advance, you can make informed decisions and start your program with confidence.

When will I receive my 9-digit Student (Campus) ID number and my Unity ID? What is the difference between the two?

After you submit your online application and pay the processing fee, the Graduate School will send your 9-digit NC State Student ID number. Therefore, watch your email for this important update.

Next, visit the Office of Information Technology website to learn more about Unity and Campus IDs. There, you can find clear instructions and helpful details.

Later, you will receive your Unity ID and password information in your final admission letter from the Graduate School. In addition, you can view your decision letter through the online application portal. To access it, log in using your application password and the PIN you received by email when you created your account. By keeping this information handy, you can easily check your admission status and next steps.

How and when should I enroll in courses?

Each semester, before enrollment opens, you will see an Enrollment Advising Hold in your MyPack Portal. This hold is a normal part of the registration process. However, the ISE Graduate Office must clear the hold before you can access the online course registration system.

Therefore, contact your advisor early to discuss your coursework plans. By doing so, you can confirm that you are choosing the right classes. In addition, this step helps the office clear your hold on time.

To prepare, read more about how and when to enroll in courses on the Registration and Records website. There, you will find helpful details about registration timelines and procedures. By planning ahead and staying informed, you can register smoothly and stay on track each semester.

When and where do I submit my official transcript?

You must submit complete official transcripts from each college or university you attended. In addition, your transcripts must show all degrees earned and the dates awarded. Please send these documents to the Graduate School before your first semester at NC State University begins.

By submitting your transcripts early, you can avoid registration issues later. However, if the Graduate School does not receive them by the end of your first semester, you may not be able to register for your second semester. Therefore, plan ahead and request your transcripts as soon as possible. This step will help you stay on track and continue your studies without interruption.

Graduate School Admissions Office
North Carolina State University
Campus Box 7102 / 1020 Main Campus Drive
Raleigh, NC 27695 USA

Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

How do I apply for financial aid?

Complete the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at https://fafsa.gov/. The process is free and usually quick to finish. Therefore, you can apply for federal student aid without any cost.

After you submit the FAFSA, review NC State’s Applying for Aid page for more details. There, you will find helpful information about next steps and deadlines. By completing these steps early, you can explore your financial aid options with confidence.

Can I get an estimate of the aid I may receive?

Use the Net Price Calculator on NC State’s website to estimate your financial aid and out-of-pocket expenses. First, enter the requested information carefully. Then, review the estimate to better understand your potential costs.

As a result, you can plan your budget more confidently. In addition, this tool can help you explore your options before making financial decisions. By using the calculator early, you can prepare for your expenses and avoid surprises later.

I submitted my FAFSA. How do I know if you need anything else from me?

If we need additional information, we will send you a letter from our office. In addition, we will send follow up requests by email. Therefore, please check your email regularly for updates.

You can also monitor your status online at any time. Simply log in to your MyPack Portal and navigate to your financial aid page. There, you can review any outstanding items and next steps. By staying informed and responding quickly, you can keep your financial aid process moving smoothly.

How will I know if I’ve been awarded financial aid and when should I expect to be notified?

We will notify you about your award by email to your NC State email address. In addition, you can view your awards in MyPack Portal under the My Financial Aid section. Therefore, be sure to check both your email and your portal regularly.

If you submit the FAFSA and all requested documents by March 1, you can expect a decision in the first week of April. As a result, you will have time to review your award and plan ahead. By meeting the deadline and monitoring your account, you can stay informed and prepared.

How do I apply for merit scholarships?

The Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid awards university scholarships. In addition, each of the ten colleges within NC State University also offers scholarships. Therefore, you have multiple opportunities for support.

If you apply for admission by November 1, you will automatically be considered for merit scholarships. As a result, you do not need to submit a separate application for those awards.

To explore specific scholarship programs and college-based awards, visit NC State’s Scholarships page. There, you can review eligibility details and deadlines. By checking this information early, you can plan and take full advantage of available opportunities.

How do I apply for need-based scholarships?

The Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid awards university scholarships. In addition, each of the ten colleges within NC State University also offers scholarships. Therefore, you have several opportunities to receive support.

To be considered for need based scholarships, you must apply for admission by November 1. In addition, you must apply for financial aid by March 1. For financial aid, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA. By meeting both deadlines, you can qualify for need based funding.

To learn more about specific scholarship programs and college-based awards, visit NC State’s Scholarships page. There, you can review eligibility details and application steps. By exploring your options early, you can maximize your opportunities for financial support.

Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.

Parents and Families

What resources are available to me as a Parent/guardian?

The Office of Parents and Families Services offers a wide range of programs and services for parents. In addition, the office provides helpful resources to support families throughout the year. Therefore, you can stay informed and connected to campus.

To learn more, visit NC State’s parents’ website. There, you will find information about year-round programs and services for NC State families. By exploring these resources, you can stay engaged and support your student with confidence.

How are students notified of their tuition statement and financial aid?

The Cashier’s Office sends billing notifications to each student’s university email address. Therefore, ask your student to check their university email often. By doing so, they can stay current on important updates and deadlines.

In addition, you may want your student to grant you parental access through the MyPack Portal. With this access, you can view financial records and billing details directly. As a result, you can better support your student and help them manage their account responsibly.

As a parent, how do I receive emergency notifications from the University?

In the event of an emergency, the Office of Parents and Families Services will notify all parents. Therefore, you can expect timely communication when urgent situations arise.

To receive these alerts, make sure your current cell phone number is listed in your MyPack Portal record. By keeping your contact information updated, you can ensure you receive important messages without delay.

In addition, the university will post updates on its homepage. You can also find information on NC State’s parents’ website. By checking these sources, you can stay informed and respond quickly if needed.

How do I gain access to MyPack Portal as a Parent/Guardian?

To comply with FERPA, you must create and assign Parent or Guardian Access through MyPack Portal. This system serves as NC State’s online student services platform.

By granting access, you allow your parent or guardian to view selected student information online. For example, they may see transcript details and billing information. Therefore, you control what information is shared.

To begin, log in to MyPack Portal with your Unity ID and password. Next, go to Student Self Service, then Student Center, then Parent Access. After that, click “Add Relationship” and enter the person’s name, email address and relationship. Then, click “Create Parent Access” and read and accept the Informed Consent information.

Next, choose which records to release. You may select Student Account, Academic Info or Directory Info. Then, enter and confirm the parent or guardian email address. Create a PIN and a hint for phone access. Finally, click Submit to grant consent.

To access transcript information by phone, call Registration and Records at 919.515.2572.

Financial information is available by calling:

  • University Cashier’s Office | 919.515.2986
  • Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid | 919.515.242
  • Communication Technologies | 919.515.7099, option 1

Where can students find part-time employment on campus?

Visit jobs.ncsu.edu to explore job listings across campus. There, you can find a wide range of employment opportunities for students.

Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.

Student Life

How many students attend NC State?

As of the Fall 2025 semester, NC State University enrolled 40,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Since then, enrollment numbers may have changed.

For the most current information about NC State and its student body, visit the University Planning and Analysis “Fast Facts” section. There, you can review updated data and key statistics. By checking this resource, you can gain a clear and accurate overview of the university community.

What are the male-to-female and multicultural statistics of the students at NC State?

For the most current information about the makeup of NC State students, visit the University’s Office of Equal Opportunity website. There, you can find updated data about the student population.

In addition, the site provides helpful details about diversity and campus demographics. By reviewing this information, you can better understand the NC State community and its commitment to inclusion.

How do I get a parking permit?

To apply for a parking permit, log in to your MyPack Portal. Next, click on “Parking Permit.” You will find this option in Student Self Service under the Enrollment menu.

If you need additional details, visit the Transportation website. There, you can review permit options, rates and important deadlines. By checking both resources, you can complete your parking request quickly and confidently.

Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Graduate Services Coordinator | ise-gradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.515.6410.