Bachelor of Science [BS] (Computer Science - Software Engineering)
Field of Study:
$67,756 /Yr
Baylor University’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Software Engineering Concentration is a 4-year, on-campus program taught in Waco, Texas. The program demands strong mathematics and English proficiency from international applicants. Total annual cost reaches USD 84,394 (INR 80.34 Lakhs). Intakes available in Fall and Spring. The degree prepares graduates for rigorous roles in enterprise software development and systems architecture.
This concentration uniquely blends theoretical computer science with practical engineering methodology. You will study software quality assurance, project management, and economic tradeoffs alongside microservices architecture and security assessment. Baylor’s Software Engineering program stands apart through research in pattern specification, code analysis, and model-driven testing. Ideal candidates combine strong math foundations with a drive to ship production-quality code in team environments.
- Software Engineering I and II are required, ensuring hands-on project-based learning.
- Median entry-level salary of INR 78.77 Lakhs exceeds the national US average.
- 51% acceptance rate creates a moderately competitive cohort of international peers.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Closed. The application deadline was 15 February 2026. Next intake is Spring 2027 with an expected deadline of 01 December 2026.
International applicants reaching out this late in the cycle should contact admissions directly to assess Spring entry feasibility and visa processing timelines.
Also Check: Baylor University Computer Science Admission
Baylor University Computer Science Software Engineering Fees and Living Costs 2026
Baylor charges flat-rate tuition for full-time undergraduates enrolled in 12+ credit hours per semester. The Software Engineering program follows standard engineering school fees with lab charges included.
| Cost Component | USD Per Year | INR Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (12+ credit hours) | USD 67,756 | INR 64.51 Lakhs |
| Room and Board (on-campus) | USD 16,638 | INR 15.83 Lakhs |
| Books and Supplies | USD 1,438 | INR 1.37 Lakhs |
| Miscellaneous and Personal Expenses | USD 3,752 | INR 3.57 Lakhs |
| Total Annual Cost | USD 89,584 | INR 85.28 Lakhs |
| Four-Year Degree Total | USD 358,336 | INR 3.41 Crore |
Source: Baylor University Admissions Office, 2026-2027 Cost of Attendance.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.18 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily, verify before applying.
- Tuition increase has remained below 3% annually over the last five years.
- Engineering lab fees are bundled into flat tuition; no additional laboratory charges apply.
- Chapel and matriculation fees total USD 190 and apply once.
- Over 90% of students receive financial aid; 84% qualify for merit scholarships.
Cost of Living in Waco for Computer Science Students
Waco’s cost of living ranks 12% below the national US average. Off-campus housing near the Baylor campus ranges from USD 800 to USD 1,200 monthly.
| Expense Category | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Off-campus rent (shared) | USD 900 | INR 85,662 |
| Groceries | USD 250 | INR 23,795 |
| Local transport and parking | USD 120 | INR 11,422 |
| Dining and entertainment | USD 200 | INR 19,036 |
| Health insurance and medical | USD 150 | INR 14,277 |
Honest reality: Waco is an affordable college town. Plan for total monthly expenses of USD 1,620 (INR 1.54 Lakhs) if living off-campus, versus USD 1,400 (INR 1.33 Lakhs) in on-campus housing.
Read More: Cost of Living in USA for International Students
Baylor University Computer Science Admission 2026
Baylor admits 51% of undergraduate applicants, making it moderately selective. The Computer Science program sits within the School of Engineering and Computer Science, which maintains slightly higher standards than the university average. International students follow the same admissions pathway as domestic candidates but require additional visa documentation.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| High School GPA (unweighted) | 3.8 average; 3.5+ competitive for engineering |
| Standardized Test | SAT or ACT; SAT mid-range 1330–1520; ACT 30–35 |
| Mathematics Level | Calculus or Pre-Calculus required; Calculus II preferred |
| Computer Science Coursework | Prior CS experience helpful but not required |
| Essays and Recommendation Letters | Two recommender letters (one from math or science); one essay on intellectual interests |
Baylor ranks #88 nationally among US News National Universities in 2026. For Computer Science specifically, Baylor ranks #205 in the United States and #815 globally, indicating solid engineering credentials within the undergraduate program.
English Language Proficiency for International Students
All international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests. Baylor accepts IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, and PTE Academic.
| Test | Minimum Overall Score | Component Minimums |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 | Reading 5.5, Writing 5.5, Speaking 5.5, Listening 5.5 |
| TOEFL IBT | 80 | Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 18 |
| Duolingo English Test | 110 | Literacy 110, Conversation 110 |
| PTE Academic | 60 | No sub-minimums published |
- IELTS band 6.0 (overall) is achievable with 12 weeks of focused preparation for typical Indian applicants.
- TOEFL 80 is the university baseline; engineering requires confidence in technical reading passages.
- Duolingo 110 suits students with time constraints; accepted since 2024 for undergraduate engineering admission.
- Indian students applying to Baylor typically cluster IELTS 6.0–7.0 and TOEFL 85–100 for competitive standing.
Tip for Indian students: IELTS band 6.0 is the minimum, but aim for 6.5 to strengthen your engineering application. Wording matters in technical essays; target writing band 6.5+.
Check Out: Baylor University Admission Requirements
Baylor University Computer Science Application 2027
Baylor operates on a rolling admissions basis for undergraduate programs. Apply early to secure a spot, especially as an international applicant requiring visa processing time.
| Application Cycle | Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 Intake | 15 February 2026 | Closed |
| Spring 2027 Intake | 01 December 2026 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| Fall 2027 Intake | 15 February 2027 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
- No application fee is charged for undergraduate students of any origin.
- Online application submission is immediate; decision released within 4–6 weeks.
- Required documents: transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, English proficiency test, two recommendations, one essay.
- International credentials (IGCSE, A-Levels, IB) are evaluated by WES or Naces certified evaluators.
Application reality: Baylor operates rolling admissions; early applicants (October–November) see faster decisions. International applicants should target the deadline at least 8 weeks before intended intake to process visas.
Read More: Baylor University Application Process
Baylor University Computer Science Scholarships 2026
Baylor offers merit-based and need-based scholarships to all undergraduate students. Over 84% of the student body receives merit aid; 90% receive some form of financial aid.
| Scholarship Type | Coverage | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Baylor Full-Ride Merit Scholarships | Up to full cost of attendance | SAT 1450+, GPA 3.95+, essay-based |
| Partial Merit Scholarships | USD 5,000 to USD 25,000 per year | SAT 1200–1450, GPA 3.5–3.95 |
| Need-Based Grants | Variable; up to demonstrated need | FAFSA completion; US citizen or permanent resident only |
| International Scholar Grants | USD 15,000 to USD 35,000 per year | Academic merit; international passport holders |
| Engineering Excellence Awards | USD 2,000 to USD 10,000 per year | Engineering major; strong STEM records |
Source: Baylor University Office of Financial Aid, 2026-2027 Scholarship Directory.
- International students are ineligible for federal need-based grants but qualify for merit and university scholarships.
- Merit scholarships are awarded at admission; additional scholarship applications are due by 31 March.
- Computing scholarships from industry partners (IBM, Microsoft) are advertised via the School of Engineering.
- Scholarship packages typically cover tuition only; room, board, and living costs remain the applicant’s responsibility.
Scholarship reality: Baylor’s advertised "up to full cost" rarely materializes for international Computer Science students. Typical awards fall into the USD 15,000–USD 25,000 annual band, reducing four-year cost from INR 3.41 Crore to approximately INR 2.70 Crore.
Check Out: Baylor University Scholarships for International Students
Baylor University Computer Science Salary 2026
Baylor Computer Science graduates command strong starting salaries. Data from the university’s career services office reveals median first-year compensation above the national US average for computer science bachelor’s degree holders.
| Metric | USD (Annual) | INR (Annual) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Entry-Level Salary (B.S.) | USD 82,714 | INR 78.77 Lakhs | Top 25% earn USD 95,000+ |
| Software Engineer (Entry) | USD 85,000 to USD 110,000 | INR 80.90 Lakhs to INR 1.05 Crore | varies by employer and location |
| Software Quality Assurance Engineer | USD 70,000 to USD 85,000 | INR 66.63 Lakhs to INR 80.90 Lakhs | quality and process focus |
| Systems Architect (3+ years experience) | USD 120,000 to USD 150,000 | INR 1.14 Crore to INR 1.43 Crore | advanced role post-graduation |
| Placement Rate (2023–2024) | 90% within 6 months of graduation | Computer Science cohort specific | |
Source: Baylor University Career Center Success Data, 2024 Graduate Outcomes Report.
- Gross salary figures above exclude federal and state income taxes, which reduce take-home by 15–25% depending on location and marital status.
- Texas has no state income tax; most Baylor graduates working in Austin or Dallas maximize take-home earnings.
- Major employers include Dell, Oracle, IBM, L3 Harris, KPMG, Deloitte, and early-stage tech startups in Austin.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) extends work authorization to 12 months; STEM extension is ineligible for Computer Science degrees.
ROI reality: Four-year cost of INR 3.41 Crore is recovered within 5.5 years of work at median salary. Graduates in Austin tech roles recover cost within 4 years.
Also Check: Optional Practical Training and Work Visas in USA
USA Visa Pathway Computer Science Software Engineering
International students studying at Baylor University must obtain an F-1 student visa before arriving in the United States. The F-1 visa permits full-time study and includes provisions for on-campus work and post-graduation employment. After graduation, qualified students can extend their stay through Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain US work experience.
- F-1 visa validity covers the entire duration of your program plus 60 grace days post-graduation.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows 12 months of full-time work after graduation in your field of study.
- Spouse and dependent visa (F-2) are available; dependents may attend school but cannot work.
- H-1B skilled worker visa is accessible after OPT completion; Baylor graduates typically secure sponsorship within 12–18 months.
- Permanent Residency (Green Card) pathways exist via employment sponsorship; typical timeline is 6–10 years post-OPT.
Visa reality: F-1 to H-1B transition is standard for Baylor Computer Science graduates. Plan for continuous visa sponsorship from day one; most employers view OPT → H-1B as a pipeline, not a barrier.
Read More: F-1 Student Visa Requirements for USA
Baylor University Computer Science Ranking 2026
Baylor’s Computer Science program holds a subject-specific ranking from the US News Best Graduate Schools survey. This ranking reflects academic reputation, research output, and employer recognition within the computer science discipline.
| Ranking System | 2026 Rank | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| US News Computer Science (Undergraduate) | #205 in USA; #815 globally | Subject-specific ranking by discipline |
| US News National Universities Overall | #88 | All undergraduate and graduate programs combined |
| QS World University Rankings 2026 | #1001–1200 | Global ranking across all disciplines |
| THE World University Rankings 2026 | #801–1000 | International higher education assessment |
| ARWU (Shanghai) 2026 | #601–700 | Research-focused global ranking |
- The #205 US News Computer Science rank reflects strong research in software engineering, security, and microservices.
- Baylor’s engineering programs benefit from industry partnerships with Fortune 500 tech firms.
- Graduate outcomes data supports the ranking; 90% placement within six months.
- Research faculty actively publish in top-tier venues; undergraduate participation in faculty projects is encouraged.
Honest take: US News #205 Computer Science is solid but not elite. Baylor competes with Texas A&M, UT Austin, and Rice in the regional market. Choose Baylor for affordability, strong teaching, and direct access to Austin tech jobs; choose MIT or Stanford only if research output is your primary driver.
Check Out: Baylor University Rankings 2026
Baylor’s Computer Science Software Engineering program offers a balanced pathway into professional development roles with strong job placement and reasonable cost-of-study compared to peer programs. International candidates benefit from rolling admissions, English proficiency flexibility, and a tight-knit engineering cohort. Apply early for Spring 2027 or plan for Fall 2027 if you are taking IELTS or TOEFL preparation seriously in the coming months.
Computer Science Software Engineering FAQs
Ques. Does Baylor Computer Science qualify for STEM OPT extension beyond 12 months?
Ans. No. Computer Science (B.S.) degrees at Baylor do not qualify for the 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training extension. You receive the standard 12-month OPT period. However, securing H-1B sponsorship within that window is standard, as 60–75% of Baylor Computer Science graduates receive employer sponsorship for the skilled worker visa pathway.
Ques. What is the Software Engineering concentration and how does it differ from general Computer Science?
Ans. The Software Engineering concentration emphasizes systematic software development, quality assurance, project management, and microservices architecture. You will take Software Engineering I and II (required of all B.S.C.S. students), plus specialized courses in quality assurance and engineering economics. General Computer Science students may opt for cybersecurity or core CS instead. All concentrations award the same B.S.C.S. degree; the concentration is noted on your diploma.
Ques. Is an internship required or strongly recommended for Computer Science at Baylor?
Ans. Internships are not mandatory but are strongly encouraged, especially for international students aiming for post-graduation sponsorship. Baylor’s Career Center reports that 85% of Computer Science graduates complete at least one summer or fall internship. Companies recruiting on campus include Dell, IBM, Oracle, and numerous Austin-based startups. Internships typically offer USD 25–USD 35 per hour for undergraduate summer roles.
Ques. Can I switch concentrations after admission (e.g., from Software Engineering to Cybersecurity)?
Ans. Yes. Concentration selection occurs during your second year, after you complete core mathematics and introductory CS courses. Most students finalize their concentration by end of sophomore year. Switching concentrations is permitted without additional tuition; coursework aligns to your chosen track by junior year.
Ques. How strong is Baylor’s placement support for international students seeking post-graduation work visas?
Ans. Baylor’s Career Center dedicates resources to international student placement and visa timeline advising. The university’s career portal lists employers actively hiring for OPT and H-1B pathways. Most international graduates secure job offers before graduation, allowing employers to file H-1B petitions on your behalf in the required April window. Baylor’s engineering reputation and regional proximity to Austin tech clusters significantly accelerate hiring timelines for Computer Science graduates.
Important Alert
- Early Action Application Deadline for Fall Intake - Nov 1, 2026
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $67756 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $54844 |
| 2023 | $51738 |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Early Action Application Deadline for Fall Intake | Nov 1, 2026 |
| Early Action Decision Deadline for Fall Intake | Feb 1, 2027 |
| Regular Application Deadline for Fall Intake | Feb 15, 2027 |
| Regular Decision Deadline for Fall Intake | Apr 10, 2027 |
| Application Deadline for Spring Intake | Nov 15, 2027 |
Scores Required
Required Document List
- High School Transcripts
- External Exams or Certificates (if applicable)
- Official SAT/ACT Scores (Optional)
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Complete Financial Aid Applications
- Essay

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Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Career and Placement after Course
Finishing the BS in computer engineering at baylor university may find opportunities such as:
- Software Engineer
- Systems Analyst
- Web Developer
- Database Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- IT Support Specialist
- Quality Assurance Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Machine Learning Engineer and more.
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chuan Ai Lu Engstrom Memorial Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jagdish Bhagwati Fellowship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Comindware Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 4,000/Yr$4,000 | Level Of StudyApprenticeship | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| The Google Lime Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Early Action Application Deadline for Fall Intake (1st Nov 2026) Early Action Decision Deadline for Fall Intake (1st Feb 2027) Regular Application Deadline for Fall Intake (15th Feb 2027) Regular Decision Deadline for Fall Intake (10th Apr 2027) Application Deadline for Spring Intake (15th Nov 2027) | USD 67,756 /Yr |
|
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