How Competitive Are CSE Ph.D. Admissions for Veterans?

[Husky04]

Hello,

I am currently getting out of the army after six years as an officer in the infantry. I would like to go back to graduate school for my Ph.D. in CSE. I have a BSEE with heavy coursework in CSE from the University of Washington. I am just wondering how difficult admissions will be to the better CSE Ph.D. programs (Top 25) compared to students coming right out of undergrad or having worked in industry for a few years? Also, will I be playing a lot of catchup and be at a distinct disadvantage to my classmates?

Thanks.

 

[ych22]

obviously you aren't going to find yourself the brightest of the lot, and you'll be playing a lot of catchup.

but from what I know, being 6 years older and more mature allows you to be pretty good at playing catchup and putting in the tonnes of effort you'll be needing.

BTW, I suggest that you set reasonable expectations. maybe aim for a program that would allow exit with a masters if necessary. being away from school for so long, you oughta be conservative