Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When do new students begin?

A: New students enter the program in the fall semester. The semester typically begins near the end of August. We do not accept new students in the spring semester under any circumstances.

Q: What form of financial aid do you offer?

A: We offer Preemptive Fellowships to our most qualified applicants. In addition, we offer 20-hour per week teaching and research assistant positions. If you have a 20-hour appointment or hold a fellowship, you will qualify for in-state tuition.

Q: How long does it take to get a Ph.D.?

A: Normally, students complete their dissertation work in the fourth or fifth year of the program.

Q: Which standardized tests must I take and when must I take them?

A: The Finance Department will accept either the GMAT or the GRE. For your scores to be acceptable, you must have taken the exam within the last five years. You must take the exam soon enough that the scores will arrive before the January 5 application deadline. To be considered for a Preemptive Fellowship, you must also be sure that your scores arrive before the January 5 deadline.

International students must submit an official report of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). An exception is made for foreign students who obtained a bachelor's degree in the U.S. or another English-speaking country.

Q: How competitive is the admissions process?

A: Because the programs differ in terms of the number of applications received, the average GMAT and GRE student scores and the number of positions available, a simple answer cannot be given. However, competition in both concentrations is keen and admitted applicants ordinarily have test scores above the 90th percentile. They also have very high grade point averages from their undergraduate institutions. Master's degree and work experience are not required for admission. However, the admission's committee considers all aspects of an applicant's background.