Admissions

Online application

An application to the Ph.D. in Finance program must be completed via the graduate application portal. The major code for our department is 1139. The application fee should be paid online. Note that international students do not need to fill out the “Affidavit of Support” form, as we expect that all admitted students will be offered graduate assistantships.

Standardized test scores

We require a GMAT score that is less than five years old. We prefer the GMAT, but will consider a GRE score. When ordering official GMAT scores, our institution code is QH0-5P-03. For GRE scores, our institution code is 1465 and our department/major field code is 4102. To learn more about the standards we hold regarding GMAT and GRE scores, see our frequently asked questions.

TOEFL scores taken within the last two years are required for some students. Only students whose home countries have an official language of English or students who have received a master’s degree from an accredited AAU school are exempt from providing these scores. Our TOEFL institution code is 1465 and our department code is 02. We do not accept IELTS or any other English language test, although other departments at MSU might accept them. You can view the English language competency requirements on the Graduate School website. During the application process, if you are given a choice of “Graduate Schools” and “Graduate Schools of Management,” choose “Graduate Schools.”

College transcripts

Official transcripts sent in sealed and stamped university envelopes directly from the institution must be provided. International students must provide both an English translation as well as the original language version of all transcripts. Please send all transcripts to:

Katie Trinklein
Ph.D. in Finance
632 Bogue St Rm N270
East Lansing, MI 48824

References

We require three letters of recommendation discussing your suitability for doctoral training in finance. Letters must be submitted online. After completing your application and making the payment, you should log into your account with the Office of Admissions and click “Letters of Recommendation” under “Control Panel.” This will guide you through the process of providing contact information for the recommenders. All letters must be uploaded in this fashion. No mailed letters will be accepted.

Resume/CV

A current version of your resume/CV is required. This can be uploaded into the application through the graduate portal.

Written statement of personal goals

A written statement of personal goals is required. This is part of the online application. This statement should address (a) the area(s) of finance in which you are interested, (b) why you believe the program and faculty at Michigan State University fit your interests, and (c) your career objectives upon completion of your degree. This statement should be no longer than two pages (double-spaced).

Please note that when you complete the online application, you will be asked to complete an “academic statement” and a “personal statement.” Your statement of personal goals can be used for both the academic statement and the personal statement.

Additional supporting materials

Any additional supporting materials you believe will help the department evaluate your candidacy (e.g., copies of any publications, etc.) can be uploaded into the application through the graduate portal.