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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I apply?

Students can apply two ways either via the paper application or online. To obtain a paper application you may call Graduate Services (617-353-3481 or 1-800-992-6514), write to us at Graduate Services, 640 Commonwealth Avenue, room 112, Boston, MA 02215, email us at comgrad@bu.edu, or request an application.Please send all supplementary materials in a single packet.

The online application is preferred.

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2. What is required in my application?

Several items are part of a student's application for admission:

• Application
• A non-refundable application fee of $80 for the paper application or a $70 application fee for the online application
• Official Transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Writing Requirements
• Official Test scores
• Financial Documentation for International Students
• International Student Video Requirement (see International Application admission information)

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3. What test must I take?

If you studied at an English speaking school you must take the GRE. If you did not study at an English speaking institution you must take the TOEFL and obtain a minimum score of 600 (250 computer based). If you are applying for the dual degree MBA/MS Television Management Program you must take the GMAT. If you are applying to the dual degree JD/MS Mass Communication you must take the LSAT. The final score we receive (by our deadline) is the score we send to committee.

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4. If my TOEFL is under 600, may I still apply?

No. Any applications received with a TOEFL score under 600 PBT (or 250 CBT) will not be reviewed for admission. There are no exceptions. The final score we receive (by our deadline) is the score we use. If the final score is below 600 PBT (or 250 CBT) the file will not go to committee. At this time we suggest a minimum score of 25 within each category of the new iBT TOEFL test.

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5. When is the application due?

The application and all required materials are due no later than February 1. It must be RECEIVED by this date (not postmarked). We do not accept late items and we do not send incomplete files to committee.

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6. How can I get more information about the tracks you added in the Advertising program?

Various tracks (creative, management and thesis) have been added to our well-established advertising program. Please go to the advertising main page for more information. Please note: if you have previously applied to our advertising program you will have to submit the additional requirements as well as your letter of intent.

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7. How should letters of recommendation and/or transcripts be mailed?

All materials should be mailed as part of the application package. All transcripts and recommendations must arrive in signed and sealed envelopes within the application package. Former/current professors or employers should provide recommendations. A letter should accompany transcripts from the applicant's Registrar Office with the applicant's GPA on a 4.0 scale (if not already on the transcript).

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8. If my undergraduate degree was only 3 years in length, am I still eligible?

Yes. As long as you have completed the degree (or will have by the time you begin our program) you are eligible.

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9. What financial documentation do I need as an International student and when is it due?

All international students must submit an International Student Data form (which is mailed if you are accepted), a sponsor letter, and a bank statement of your sponsor in the amount of approximately $44,500, which must be in English and in US dollars. This information is due by the admission decision and tuition deposit deadline.

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10. How do I apply for financial aid?

All full-time students who apply for admission are automatically considered for merit scholarships. Assistantship and Loan information will be mailed to students if accepted. International students and domestic students are both considered for scholarship. You will be notified along with your admissions' decision.

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11. What is the admissions timeline?

• Applications are due February 1
• Applications are reviewed between February 15th-March 15th
• Admissions & Financial Aid Information mailed by mid-March/early April
• Admission response and tuition deposit due May 1st
• Registration materials mailed by early June
• Registration materials due back to COM by end of June

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12. What part of my application is most important?

The admissions' committee looks at your entire application in order to determine admission. Two items to emphasize would be your test scores and your writing samples/assignments.

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13. What is the suggested GRE score?

Students should obtain a 580 in each category. Higher GRE scores will possibly increase chances for merit scholarships.

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14. What is the suggested Grade Point Average?

Students should have a 3.0 or higher on their undergraduate transcript. Higher GPA will possibly increase chances for merit scholarships.

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15. If I am accepted, may I defer my application?

Yes, students may defer their application. However, admission is not automatic for the next admission cycle. Students must submit a letter to Graduate Services by the following February 1 stating their intention to reapply. Application materials do not need to be resubmitted. However, students may resubmit application items they want to improve upon.

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16. Are interviews required?

Interviews are not required in any program except Science Journalism. The Screenwriting dept. may contact some individuals for interviews. Informational interviews are conducted at the student's request. Please contact Graduate Services to schedule an appointment.

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17. Will incomplete applications be reviewed?

No. Only applications that are complete by February 1 will be reviewed for Fall admission.

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18. How will I find out if my application is complete or incomplete?

Once we receive your application we will send you an email to let you know whether your application is complete or incomplete. You may certainly call Graduate Services to check the status of your application at anytime. Email is the only way that students will be notified if their application is incomplete or complete. Please be sure to get your application in early so we have ample time to notify you of your status.

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19. How many programs can I apply to in the College of Communication?

Students may only apply to one program within COM.

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Boston University College of Communication
Graduate Admissions & Services, Room 112
640 Commonwealth Avenue | Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 617-353-3481

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