If you're an international student looking to pursue a Master's in Computer Science (CS) or Software Engineering, you may feel like you've missed the major application deadlines. Good news! Some well-ranked universities in the U.S. offer late deadlines, giving you more time to apply.

We've compiled a list of decent-ranking universities with late deadlines. These programs offer excellent academic and career opportunities, ensuring a strong return on investment for international students.

1. University of Washington (UW)

📍 Location: Seattle, Washington
🏆 Ranking: 3
🏫 Type: Public
💰 Tuition: $20,815 per year
📅 Application Deadline: March 3, 2025
📜 GRE Required: No
🏗 Network Building Opportunities: High
💰 Cost of Living: $1,659 per month

🌟 Why Choose the University of Washington?

The University of Washington (UW) is a world-renowned public research university founded in 1861, making it one of the oldest institutions on the West Coast. Located in Seattle, a major tech hub, UW has deep connections with top technology companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, offering excellent job and internship opportunities for students pursuing Computer Science and Software Engineering.

UW consistently ranks among the top global universities due to its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and academic excellence. The university does not require the GRE for admission, making it an attractive choice for international students.

🛑 Catch/Risk: Highly competitive admissions -- With a low acceptance rate and top-ranked CS program, getting admitted can be challenging.

💡 Expert Tip: Highlight research interests and align with faculty projects to boost your chances. A strong SOP and well-structured resume will make a difference.

✅ Summary: Is UW Right for You?

✔ You want to study at a globally top-ranked university with a strong research culture.
✔ You aim for job opportunities in tech hubs like Seattle, Silicon Valley, or worldwide.
✔ You are looking for strong alumni and networking opportunities with top tech companies.
✔ You want to experience a vibrant student life in one of the U.S.'s most innovative cities.

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2. University of Maryland - College Park (UMD)

📍 Location: College Park, Maryland
🏆 Ranking: 17
🏫 Type: Public
💰 Tuition: $23,500 per year
📅 Application Deadline: March 11, 2025
📜 GRE Required: Optional
🏗 Network Building Opportunities: Very High
💰 Cost of Living: $1,714 per month

🌟 Why Choose the University of Maryland?

The University of Maryland - College Park (UMD) is a top-ranked public research university, founded in 1856. It is part of the Big Ten Academic Alliance, which enhances its research funding and academic collaborations.

Located in Maryland, near Washington, D.C., UMD provides unmatched career and internship opportunities, especially in technology, cybersecurity, and government-related roles. The proximity to federal agencies like NASA, NSA, and NIH makes UMD a strategic choice for students seeking research or employment in AI, cybersecurity, data science, and defense technology.

The GRE is optional, which makes it easier for international students to apply.

🛑 Catch/Risk: High cost of living -- While tuition is reasonable, living expenses near Washington, D.C., can be expensive.
💡 Expert Tip: Consider off-campus housing or graduate assistantships to reduce living costs. Apply early for RA/TA positions.

✅ Summary: Is UMD Right for You?

✔ You want a university with strong research opportunities and funding in AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
✔ You want access to government agencies like NSA, NASA, and tech firms in Washington, D.C.
✔ You prefer a school with strong networking opportunities and global alumni connections.
✔ You're interested in a public university with lower tuition costs compared to private schools.

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3. University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill (UNC)

📍 Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
🏆 Ranking: 27
🏫 Type: Public
💰 Tuition: $32,370 per year
📅 Application Deadline: March 11, 2025
📜 GRE Required: Optional
🏗 Network Building Opportunities: Moderate
💰 Cost of Living: $1,355 per month

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🌟 Why Choose the University of North Carolina?

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) is one of the oldest and most prestigious public universities in the U.S., founded in 1789. It consistently ranks among the top public universities and is known for its strong programs in computer science, business, and healthcare technology.

Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, UNC is at the heart of the Research Triangle, alongside Duke University and NC State. This provides students with excellent job and internship opportunities in a thriving tech ecosystem that includes biotech firms, AI research centers, and major software companies.

The GRE is optional, making it more accessible for international students.

🛑 Catch/Risk: Limited CS department size -- Compared to other top public schools, fewer professors and labs for CS research.
💡 Expert Tip: Network early with professors to secure research opportunities and leverage the Research Triangle (Duke & NC State) for additional resources.

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✅ Summary: Is UNC Right for You?

✔ You want to study at a historic public university with strong academic credentials.
✔ You are interested in research and industry collaborations in the Research Triangle.
✔ You want to build connections in health tech, AI, and software development.
✔ You prefer a lower cost of living compared to cities like New York or California.

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4. Northeastern University

📍 Location: Boston, Massachusetts
🏆 Ranking: 27
🏫 Type: Private
💰 Tuition: $28,560 per year
📅 Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
📜 GRE Required: Optional
🏗 Network Building Opportunities: High
💰 Cost of Living: $1,221 per month

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🌟 Why Choose Northeastern University?

Northeastern, founded in 1898, is renowned for its co-op education program, which allows students to gain real-world work experience with top tech companies while studying. The university emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with internships, research opportunities, and industry collaborations.

Located in Boston, a major technology and business hub, Northeastern has strong ties with global employers like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and startups in the Silicon Alley and biotech industries. The university's focus on innovation and applied learning makes it an excellent choice for students looking to enter competitive tech fields.

🛑 Catch/Risk: Expensive private school -- Higher tuition, and Boston has a high cost of living.
💡 Expert Tip: Take full advantage of Northeastern's co-op program -- it can help cover costs and secure full-time jobs before graduation.

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✅ Summary: Is Northeastern Right for You?

✔ You want practical, hands-on experience through the co-op education program.
✔ You aim to work at leading tech companies with strong industry connections.
✔ You want to study in Boston, one of the biggest tech and business hubs in the U.S.
✔ You prefer a private university with a strong emphasis on innovation and networking.

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5. University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

📍 Location: Minneapolis--Saint Paul, Minnesota
🏆 Ranking: 36
🏫 Type: Public
💰 Tuition: $21,824 per year
📅 Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
📜 GRE Required: No
🏗 Network Building Opportunities: High
💰 Cost of Living: $1,270 per month

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🌟 Why Choose the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities?

The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities (UMN), founded in 1851, is one of the largest and most prestigious public universities in the U.S.. It consistently ranks among the top research institutions, with a $900 million annual research budget supporting innovation in computer science, AI, and data science.

Located in Minneapolis--Saint Paul, UMN is part of a thriving tech ecosystem with major companies like 3M, Medtronic, IBM, and Target offering internships and job opportunities. The university is highly research-focused, providing cutting-edge labs, AI research centers, and collaborative projects with industry leaders.

UMN does not require the GRE, making it more accessible for international applicants.

🛑 Catch/Risk: Extreme winters -- Harsh, long, and very cold winters can be tough for students from warmer regions.
💡 Expert Tip: Prepare for the cold, but focus on its affordability and strong research culture. Many big tech companies recruit from UMN.

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✅ Summary: Is UMN Right for You?

✔ You want to study at a top public research university with strong STEM programs.
✔ You are looking for high research funding and cutting-edge AI and CS research opportunities.
✔ You want to build connections with major tech and Fortune 500 companies in the Midwest.
✔ You prefer an affordable public university with a lower cost of living than East or West Coast schools.

📢 Final Thoughts: Your Last Chance to Apply!

Applying to a Master's in Computer Science or Software Engineering in the U.S. doesn't have to be stressful---even if you're applying late. These well-ranked universities offer great academic programs, strong industry connections, and research opportunities, ensuring you still have a shot at a top-quality education.

While some deadlines have passed, these universities give international students extra time to submit applications. However, don't delay---spots fill up fast! Prepare your SOP, LORs, and resume, and start applying today to secure your admission for Fall.

📥 Need help with university shortlisting or SOP evaluation? Use ApplyBuddy to maximize your chances of getting into your dream program! 🚀