Straya

Hi, I'm a first year Melbourne Uni student doing a 3-year Bachelor of Science (Computing and Software Systems major).
This is what my course structure looks like:
Computing & Software Systems Major: Melbourne School of Information, University of Melbourne

I'm considering doing a masters degree in comp sci at one of Stanford, MIT, Harvard, UC Berkeley or Caltech.

I'm wondering do these unis accept 3-year degrees, particularly from Australia?
Melb Uni has a unique system (all Bachelors are 3 years + then you can do a 2 year masters degree). Bachelors degrees are 4 years at all other Aus unis.

Also, I averaged about 80% (actually, 79.5%) for my first semester at unimelb. How much would such grades be detrimental to my chances? (I have picked up this sem, and know I will do better).

What other factors are considered? I know of the GRE, work experience positions / research work and recommendations from staff. How significant are these other factors compared to grades/GPA?

Thank you

katliamom

You might want to post this in the graduate school threads.

But in my experience, it's difficult on this site to advise international students on grad school chances. Evaluating your odds would require knowing the Australian system and how your grades/accomplishments compare you to your peers in Australia, and those in the US.

For the best, most accurate and detailed advice, contact the comp sci departments of each school. Just remember that you're aiming for six of the most selective universities anywhere. Competition will be fierce, and the candidates will be among the best in the US, and in their own countries.