{"id":27047,"date":"2020-06-07T20:42:27","date_gmt":"2020-06-08T00:42:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/?page_id=27047"},"modified":"2026-08-12T10:53:38","modified_gmt":"2026-08-12T14:53:38","slug":"apply-for-an-ma","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/admissions\/apply-for-an-ma\/","title":{"rendered":"Apply for a Master&#8217;s"},"content":{"rendered":"<h5 style=\"font-size: 20pt; color: #cc0000;\">Apply for a Master&#8217;s<\/h5>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"button button-secondary\" style=\"background-color: #e31936;\" href=\"http:\/\/mycas.bu.edu\/economics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Request More Information<\/a><a class=\"button secondary\" style=\"background-color: #e31936;\" href=\"https:\/\/grad.bu.edu\/apply\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Apply Now<\/a>\u00a0 <a class=\"button secondary\" style=\"background-color: #e31936;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/scl\/fi\/cwttbw5vnzxjfhy6m38ot\/EconMastersVVD_2026_041026_video.mp4?rlkey=3dzeud45sht8c7pyqt17mmsnt&amp;dl=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Virtual Visit Day 2026 Recording<\/a><a class=\"button secondary\" style=\"background-color: #e31936;\" href=\"\/econ\/files\/2026\/04\/Masters-Virtual-Visiting-Day-2026-Slides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Virtual Visit Day 2026 Slides<\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applying to a master\u2019s program in Economics at Boston University means joining a rigorous, globally engaged academic community. Admission to our STEM-designated master\u2019s programs is selective, but we take a holistic approach\u2014recognizing that students from diverse academic, professional, and international backgrounds demonstrate strong potential in different ways. While a quantitative GRE score above the 80th percentile may indicate readiness for graduate-level study, it is neither required nor determinative; each application is reviewed in full.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applicants typically hold\u2014or are completing\u2014a bachelor\u2019s degree in economics, economics and mathematics, or a closely related field from a recognized institution, with preparation in intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics, statistics, calculus, and linear algebra. Qualified candidates from all academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and our master\u2019s programs offer both fall and spring admission options. Applicants to the MBA\/MS in Quantitative Economics program should refer to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/academics\/masters-programs\/mba-ms-quantitative-economics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">program page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for specific requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>GRE Requirement<\/strong><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applicants are strongly encouraged to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test at least one month before the application deadline. The GRE Subject Tests are not required. While the GRE plays an important role in the admissions review, it is considered alongside your full application, including academic background and preparation. Please note that we do not accept GMAT scores for our master\u2019s programs, except for the MBA\/MS program.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GRE scores are valid for five years. For Fall 2026 admission, scores from tests taken after 2021 are acceptable. When submitting your scores, use ETS Institution Code <\/span><b>3087<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for the Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences\u2014no department code is needed. Official scores must be received by the application deadline.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Ready to Apply?<\/strong><br \/>\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the MBA\/MS in Quantitative Economics, MBA\/MSQE, please see specific requirements on the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/academics\/masters-programs\/mba-ms-quantitative-economics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">program page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the <\/span><b>MS in Applied Economics &amp; Data Science (MSECDS), MS in Quantitative Economics (MSQE), MS in Economic Policy &amp; Practice (MSEPP), and MA in Global Development Economics (MAGDE)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> programs, please ensure your application is complete and the application fee has been submitted before the deadline. To provide a fair and timely review for all applicants, we are only able to evaluate complete applications received by the deadline, and we cannot accept late submissions or conduct pre-evaluations by email.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you\u2019re ready, submit all required materials through the online application to be considered for admission. Please do not send any materials directly to the Economics Department.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"button button-secondary\" style=\"background-color: #e31936;\" href=\"https:\/\/bu-grs.liaisoncas.com\/applicant-ux\/#\/login\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Apply Now<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Materials to Submit<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Submit your online application<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/grad.bu.edu\/apply\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Apply online<\/a> at the Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences application portal. <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We recommend starting early to allow time for transcripts, test scores, and recommendations to be submitted before the deadline.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Suggested timeline:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>2\u20133 months before the deadline:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contact recommenders, request official GRE (and TOEFL, if applicable) scores, and request transcripts from all prior institutions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>2\u20133 weeks before the deadline:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete your application, upload required documents, and follow up with recommenders as needed.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For more information on application requirements, please visit the Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/ma-ms\/frequently-asked-questions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">FAQs page<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Transcripts<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upload unofficial transcripts for all post-secondary coursework directly to your online application. Applicants educated outside the U.S. must include certified English translations of all academic records. WES evaluations are not required.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Two letters of recommendation<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A minimum of <\/span><b>two letters of recommendation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is required. Academic references are preferred, though professional letters are acceptable for applicants who have been out of school for more than two years. Academic recommendation letters should be written by university instructors who have taught the applicant in one or more classes, or have another basis for knowing the applicant&#8217;s academic aptitude well.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Test scores<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Official <\/span><b>GRE<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (and <\/span><b>TOEFL<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, if applicable) scores must be sent directly from ETS.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use <\/span><b>ETS Institution Code 3087<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014no department code is needed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Personal statement\/statement of purpose<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All applicants must submit a <\/span><b>personal statement of at least 200 words<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> describing their academic background, qualifications, and goals for graduate study in economics. A r\u00e9sum\u00e9 or CV may be included; writing samples are not required.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">International applicants only: English proficiency requirements<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All international applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through English proficiency scores.: See the minimum score requirements for accepted standardized tests, English proficiency waiver, and more details on the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/ma-ms\/international-students\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">International Master&#8217;s Applicants<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> page.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Questions? Please contact the Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences Master\u2019s Admissions Team at <a href=\"mailto:grsmams@bu.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">grsmams@bu.edu<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<p>All application inquiries should be directed to the Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences Master&#8217;s Admissions Team at <a href=\"mailto:grsmams@bu.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">grsmams@bu.edu<\/a>\u00a0or 617-353-2696.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Application Deadlines<\/strong><br \/>\n<span><div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Fall Admissions<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>First-Round Review (Priority Consideration): January 15<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Applicants who apply by this date receive priority consideration for admission and merit-based scholarships.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><b>International applicants<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are strongly encouraged to apply by <\/span><b>January 15<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to ensure timely processing of all materials.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>We continue to accept applications for Fall 2026.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span><div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Spring Admissions<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applications for spring entry must be <\/span>complete<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and received by <\/span><b>October 15<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>International applicants<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are strongly encouraged to submit all materials by <\/span><b>mid-September<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Please note: the <\/span><b>MA in Global Development Economics (MAGDE)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> does not accept applications for spring admission.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learn more about Master\u2019s <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expenses &amp; Financial Aid<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/admissions\/apply-for-an-ma\/expenses-financial-aid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/admissions\/apply-for-an-ma\/expenses-financial-aid\/\"><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Questions? Visit our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/admissions\/apply-for-an-ma\/masters-admissions-faqs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Master\u2019s Admissions FAQs<\/a>\u00a0or visit <a href=\"http:\/\/mycas.bu.edu\/economics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Request More Information<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Apply for a Master&#8217;s Request More InformationApply Now\u00a0 Virtual Visit Day 2026 RecordingVirtual Visit Day 2026 Slides Applying to a master\u2019s program in Economics at Boston University means joining a rigorous, globally engaged academic community. Admission to our STEM-designated master\u2019s programs is selective, but we take a holistic approach\u2014recognizing that students from diverse academic, professional, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15047,"featured_media":0,"parent":26996,"menu_order":2,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/27047"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15047"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27047"}],"version-history":[{"count":51,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/27047\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":38909,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/27047\/revisions\/38909"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/26996"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/econ\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27047"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}