Application Checklist
Nonrefundable application fee (U.S. $100)
Two essays
Résumé or CV
Two letters of recommendation
Transcripts from all institutions attended after high school
GMAT or GRE scores
TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores (please see our English Equivalency Exam Policy )
Application Fee
A nonrefundable application fee of U.S. $100 must be received in order for an application to be considered. Please submit your payment through the online application system.
Fee waivers are available to active duty US military personnel, and members of the Peace Corps, Teach for America, Teach for China, or Teach for India who are currently in service. Proof of current service is required. Applicants who qualify for a fee waiver should email a fee waiver request, as well as proof of service, to MSPrograms@gsb.columbia.edu
Essay Instructions
The Master of Science in Financial Economics requires two essays.
Essay 1
In 250–500 words please describe your educational goals and those academic and/or professional achievements which have contributed most to your development.
Essay 2
In 250–500 words please indicate your expected career track (examples include, but are not limited to, consulting, banking, asset management, research and modeling, risk management, etc.) and describe how the Master of Science in Financial Economics will help you attain your career goals. Please be specific.
Essays are to be submitted via the online application.
Résumé or CV Instructions
Applicants to the Master of Science in Financial Economics program must submit a résumé or CV that includes an applicant’s academic background and credentials, relevant experience since graduating from high school, including summer employment and paid or volunteer positions held on campus, as well as other business or academic experiences.
Your Résumé or CV can be uploaded through the online application.
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation, from professors or managers who know your work well, are required. Applicants are permitted to submit a total of five letters. Letters of recommendation should be submitted directly by the recommender through the online application. Recommendations can also be from former or current supervisors or other professional associates who are senior to you. Further instructions are available in the application.
Transcripts and Test Scores
Scanned copies of official transcripts should be uploaded to the online application. Test scores (GMAT,GRE, and TOEFL) should be self reported within the application by inputting them into the test score section of the application. When decisions are made we will ask admitted students for official copies of both their transcripts and test scores. Decisions are not binding until these materials have been received.