Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the prerequisites to apply?
Please see admissions page.
Do you accept GRE or GMAT?
We will accept the GRE and GMAT for the M.S. program only.
What is the typical GRE score?
We strongly look at the Quantitative portion; current median scores for recently admitted students is GRE-Q:162 and GMAT-Q: 48.
Is there a minimum GPA requirement?
The minimum GPA requirement for admissions is 3.0. The median GPA for enrolled students is 3.43/4.0.
I am not an economics major, can I still apply?
Yes; but you should have intermediate knowledge of macro and microeconomics, probability and statistics and sufficient quantitative training (specifically linear algebra and multivariable calculus). Please see our admissions requirements page.
What are the TOEFL/IELTS requirements?
Applicants from countries where English is not the primary language must submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. A minimum score of 550 (paper-based), 220 (computer-based), or 83 (iBT) is required for admission. If your TOEFL score is older than two years, you will need to re-take the exam. We will consider TOEFL waiver requests for those applicants who have completed a degree from an English-speaking university. The TSE is not required for admissions. For those choosing to take the IELTS, a minimum overall score of 7 from the IELTS test is required for admission.
Can the TOEFL requirement be waived?
TOEFL/IELTS waivers may be requested by applicants who have completed their bachelor's degrees in English-speaking institutions. If you plan to request such a waiver, you must select a back-up method of examination on the admission application in case your request is not approved. Indicate a future testing date and explain your desire and qualifications for a waiver of this requirement on the Additional Information page of the application. Additional information may be found on the Graduate Division's website. In addition, your TO-DO list will always show this as being required if no TOEFL has been submitted. There is nothing to do except contact the program coordinator to request this internal waiver.
NOTE: Any students who wish to be considered for Teaching Assistant opportunities and do not have English as their first language must score a 26 or higher on the Spoken Word portion of the TOEFL iBT; an overall score of 8 from the IELTS test is required for all new international students who may serve as a Teaching Assistant at any time during their graduate career.
What is the cost of attending UCSC?
Please see the registrar's website.
Can I finish prerequisites when I get to UCSC?
No, you must have all requirements met prior to coming to UC Santa Cruz.
I am coming from India and my degree was only 3 years. Am I eligible to apply?
Please refer to the UCSC Graduate Division policy for students with three-year degrees from India.
May I apply to more than one department or program?
No, you may apply for admissions to only one graduate program each academic year.
What kind of job can I get after the program?
The program provides analytical graduate training designed to prepare students for careers in business, international and domestic banking, consulting firms, government, and nonprofit organizations.
