Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the prerequisites to apply?
Please see admissions page.

Do you require the GRE or GMAT?
We do not require the GRE or GMAT.

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 83 (iBT) is required for admission. For those choosing to take the IELTS, a minimum overall score of 7 from the IELTS test is required for admission. An applicant will need to retake the exam if their score is from more than two years ago.

Can the TOEFL requirement be waived?
Applicants may request the waiver of TOEFL/IELTS in the application. For waiver criteria and how to request the waiver in the application, please refer to Graduate Admissions Language Requirements.

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.