Defence Institute of Advanced Technology

George Mason University is proud to partner with the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), a premier academic institution in India specializing in defense and strategic technologies. This collaboration establishes a 1+1 Graduate Transfer Program, allowing students to start their Master of Science in Software Engineering at DIAT and complete their studies at George Mason.

Through this initiative, students benefit from global exposure, top-tier faculty, and cutting-edge research facilities, preparing them for advanced careers in software engineering and related fields. This program provides a seamless pathway for DIAT students to earn a George Mason degree while gaining international academic and professional experience.

Applicants must meet academic and English proficiency requirements and submit all necessary documents for the application process.

• Academic Requirements: Students must complete their first year at DIAT in the Software Engineering program with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• English Proficiency: Applicants must meet George Mason’s English language requirements through TOEFL/IELTS scores, as outlined on George Mason’s admissions page.

• Application Review: George Mason will evaluate the applicant’s academic record, course grades, and overall qualifications before making an admission decision.

• Required Documentation: Applicants must submit official academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency. Additional materials, such as a resume or prior project work, may also be requested.

• Admission Decision: Admission decisions are made by George Mason and selected students will be notified in writing upon acceptance.

George Mason cannot offer provisional admission to students who need a student visa and cannot issue an I-20 to a student until they have met all admission requirements. Students can still apply and be admitted using their first-semester GPA and grades to determine eligibility. Once students receive their second-semester grades, they can submit an updated transcript to Admissions. 

• Competitive Admission: Acceptance into the program is highly competitive. George Mason will evaluate applications holistically to ensure that candidates meet the required academic and language proficiency standards.

• Academic Record Evaluation: George Mason will review the student’s academic performance at DIAT, ensuring the applicant has met the required standards for transfer.

• Course and Grade Assessment: George Mason shall evaluate and specify qualified courses, grades obtained, and overall GPA from DIAT to determine eligibility for credit transfer.

• English Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized test scores (TOEFL/IELTS) or equivalent.

• GPA Requirement: Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA during their first year at DIAT.

• One-Year Completion at DIAT: Students must complete their first year of study at DIAT before applying for transfer.

Students from DIAT shall apply online through DIAT’s international office as degree-seeking students to the program approximately one semester before their intended enrollment at George Mason. Students applying to the 1+1 program will need to complete the graduate admissions application. The DIAT international office will apply an application fee waiver code to cover the fee.

Required Documents:

• Official Transcripts: Students must submit transcripts from DIAT, which should be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.

• English Proficiency Scores: Proof of English proficiency is required through TOEFL/IELTS scores, as per George Mason's admission requirements.

• Statement of Purpose: A personal statement detailing academic background, research interests, and career goals.

• Additional Documents: A resume or prior project work may be requested as part of the evaluation process.

All application materials must be submitted online through George Mason’s official admissions portal.

To ensure timely processing and a smooth transition, students must adhere to the following deadlines:

• Fall Semester Admission: Applications must be submitted by March 15

• Spring Semester Admission: Applications must be submitted by October 15

DIAT will assist students in submitting applications as a cohort before these deadlines. Late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis at George Mason’s discretion.

Acceptance

• Admission Notification: Students shall be notified in writing of their admission decision by George Mason.

• Visa and Immigration: Upon acceptance, students are responsible for securing the necessary F-1 student visa in compliance with all U.S. immigration laws. George Mason will provide guidance where possible.

• Enrollment Confirmation: Admitted students must complete the enrollment process, including:

         - Course Registration: Enroll in required courses for the first semester at George Mason

         - Housing Arrangements: Secure accommodation in Fairfax, VA, with assistance from George Mason if needed

         - Financial Planning: Ensure tuition payments and funding arrangements are in place before the start of classes

         - Health Insurance: Provide documentation for health insurance compliance

Tuition Payments: Students shall pay tuition and fees directly to George Mason upon enrollment

Tuition and Fee Structure: Tuition rates are subject to change as determined by George Mason’s Board of Visitors

Financial Assistance: F-1 and J-1 visa holders are not eligible for U.S. federal financial aid

Health Insurance: Students are required to be covered under George Mason’s student health insurance plan unless they provide proof of a comparable policy through the health insurance waiver process