Fast App
Performance-based admissions for select College of Engineering graduate programs.
What is the Fast App?
The Northeastern University Fast App is a performance-based admissions process which allows you to earn graduate admission by completing real coursework. No need to gather application materials. No need to wait for an admissions decision. Let your performance in your coursework serve as your application into your graduate program.
How it works
After submitting the fast app, eligible learners will get access to two performance-based admissions courses (pathway courses) for the next start date (Spring, Summer, Fall). Get a B or better in both pathway courses and submit the official transcript of your admissible degree by the time you complete the courses and you'll continue into the full degree program the next term.
Cost
Each 4-credit pathway course costs $3,000—the same as the courses for the rest of the program. After completing your two pathway courses and getting a B or better, you'll have already paid for and completed 25% of the degree program.
Degree requirements
In order to matriculate from your pathway courses into the degree program you'll need to:
- get a B or better in your pathway courses
- submit an official transcript of your admissible degree* for graduate admission at Northeastern University by the time you complete your pathway courses
*To be eligible for graduate study at Northeastern as a degree-seeking student, you must have completed a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or first professional degree (e.g. JD, MD).
"The Fast App performance-based admissions (PBA) process let me jump right in and start my degree. I did not have to waste time on application materials. I could use that time instead to start my classes right away and apply that knowledge to my work."
Subhasish Bhaumik, PBA student
Current Fast App dates
Term |
Submit Fast App between |
Enroll by |
Start course(s) |
| Spring 2025 | August 22 - December 15 | December 20 | January 6 |
Missed an enrollment deadline? Use the enrollment link in your email to enroll in the current term.
About the Online MS in Data Analytics Engineering program
The Online DAE program offers a versatile pathway to a data analytics career, regardless of your prior experience. The program focuses on key specializations like data visualization, database design, and data mining, arming you with the skills to transform raw data into meaningful insights.
As you become adept in essential techniques and programming languages such as R, SQL, and Python, you'll be well-equipped for roles including predictive modeling analyst, advanced software engineer, and data integration engineer, poised to influence the transformative role of data in today's world.
Eligibility
If you have a STEM bachelor's degree or you've obtained tech skills throughout your career: you'll get access to two core courses from the Online DAE program as your performance-based admission pathway.
No tech experience? No Problem! You'll still get access to enroll in the PBA pathway courses. However, we encourage you to review the curated series of prepartatory courses in preparation for your pathway courses. These courses have been carefully selected by College of Engineering faculty and are designed to help you build the foundational skills needed for success in the performance-based pathway courses.
About the Online MS in Information Systems program
With comprehensive training in areas like UX design, software development, and digital business processes, the Online MSIS program not only equips you with the essential tech skills but also instills business leadership best practices.
As a graduate, you'll possess a unique blend of technical and managerial expertise, positioning you for leadership roles in various IT sectors such as IT project manager, systems administrator, and information security analyst, ready to shape the evolving digital landscape.
Eligibility
If you have a STEM bachelor's degree or you've obtained tech skills throughout your career: you'll get access to a core course and an elective from the Online MSIS program for your performance-based admission pathway.
No tech experience? No problem! You can enroll in your PBA pathway courses, however we encourage you to review the MSIS Bridge specialization, Information Systems Foundations, through Coursera, as preparation for your pathway courses. This seris of prep courses was created by College of Engineering faculty and is meant to set you up with the skills and knowledge you'll need to be successful in the Online MSIS performance-based admissions pathway courses.
Already filled out the fast app?
Provide the name and email you used when filling out the fast app to find out your pathway and get your next steps.
Want to get in touch?
How to Connect:
Email: [email protected]
Northeastern University
Delivering what employers want.
With a reputation for close employer relationships and meeting industry demands, Northeastern University excels at creating professionals who are both skilled and practice-oriented. The cornerstone of the university's approach is its experential learning which is designed to prepare you for real-world challenges.