Admission FAQs
You’re sure to have questions as you go through the process of applying for admission to Boston College’s MSA Program. Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. For more information, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions.
Applying
Do I need to submit my official transcript with my application?
At the time you submit your application, only a self-reported transcript is required. You may either upload an image of your scanned transcript or use the template provided within the application. Once you are admitted, you must submit official transcripts to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Boston College reserves the right to withdraw any offer of admission already made if there is any discrepancy between the self-reported transcript and the official transcript.
Do I need to submit an official copy of my GMAT or GRE scores with my application?
Only self-reported test scores are required with the admission application. Upon admission, you must submit official test scores to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Boston College reserves the right to withdraw any offer of admission already made if there is any discrepancy between the self-reported and official score report.
What are the minimum GMAT scores and minimum GPA required for acceptance into the program?
There are no minimum requirements. However, we recommend that you review our class profile to see how your scores and grades compare to those of our current students.
I don't have an accounting background. What enrollment period may I apply to?
Students without an undergraduate accounting degree begin the MSA program in the Summer term. You will take classes through one summer and two academic semesters, typically completing between 10 and 15 courses.
Do I need to take the TOEFL?
If your first language is not English, you must take either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the Pearson Test of English (PTE). On the TOEFL, your score must be at least 600 on a paper-based test, 250 on a computer-based test, or 100 on an Internet-based test. The minimum required score on the PTE is 68.
This requirement is waived for applicants who have completed the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a two-year master’s degree at an English-medium university. Applicants must have completed their entire degree at the English-medium university in order to be eligible for the waiver. The language medium should be indicated on the self-reported transcript. Applicants who have two or more years of full-time work experience in the United States and are currently employed in the country are also waived.
May I visit an MSA class?
Yes. We encourage you to learn more about the program by touring our facility, sitting in on a class and speaking with current students. Boston College has a beautiful campus just outside the city of Boston. Class visits may be arranged by registering online or by calling the Office of Graduate Management Admissions directly at (617) 552-3920.
Do I need to have an interview to be admitted into the MSA program?
Interviews for the MSA program are available by invitation of the Admissions Committee only.
Tuition and Financial Aid
How do I apply for financial aid?
To apply for a scholarship, simply indicate your interest on the application for admission. If you’re applying for a loan, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or contact the Office of Student Services at Boston College for assistance. Please note that federal student aid is available for United States citizens only. International students may contact the Office of Student Services for information regarding alternative loan sources.
When will I find out if I have received a scholarship?
Scholarship offers are typically made in conjunction with acceptance decisions.
What are the estimated tuition and expenses for the MSA Program?
Tuition for the 2012–2013 academic year is $1,372 per semester credit for MSA students. Other expenses, including books, supplies, and fees, vary. However, full-time students may be eligible for a scholarship or a federal loan. See Financing Your MSA for additional information.
Program Information
Can I receive credit for previous course work?
MSA students can receive equivalency credit for up to two courses and substitute those courses with elective courses. All students interested in receiving equivalency credit must complete a course waiver form to be evaluated by the dean and must have received a grade of B or better in the course. All students in the MSA program must take ten courses to earn a total of 30 credits in order to receive the degree.
In order to complete my 150 hours for my CPA exam, can I take graduate level courses in the MSA program without applying formally to the program?
Unfortunately, in order to take classes in any graduate management program, you must formally apply and be accepted into the program.
Next Steps
I’ve been admitted to the MSA Program. How do I accept my offer of admission?
You should have received an enrollment form with a reply date together with your acceptance letter. Please return the form to the Office of Graduate Admissions to confirm your decision to enroll in the Boston College MSA Program.
Is it possible to get an extension on the reply deadline?
Please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions directly at (617) 552-3920 to make this request.
When does the fall semester begin?
Orientation for the MSA Program traditionally begins the Wednesday before Labor Day, and classes typically begin the Tuesday after Labor Day. Check Courses & Schedules for more information.
For International Students
How do I get a visa?
Once you have confirmed your enrollment at Boston College, we will send you an email with instructions on applying for a visa, together with the necessary forms. The Office of International Students and Scholars prepares and processes all necessary visa documentation.
Do I have to apply for a visa before I apply for admission to the Carroll School?
No, you don’t need to submit visa-related materials at the time of application. The Carroll School’s Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) will work closely with each incoming student to ensure that materials are prepared in a timely fashion to complete the visa application and I-20 appointment.
Is financial aid available for international students?
International students are not eligible for federal student financial aid. However, you may be able to qualify for an alternative loan. For more information, contact the Office of Student Services.
Can I take the IELTS exam instead of the TOEFL?
No, we accept only the TOEFL and the PTE.
Do I need to submit financial documents with my application?
No. Financial documents are only required for admitted students. You will need to submit your original financial documents after you’ve received the Declaration and Certification of Finances (DCF) form. For more information, see our web pages for international students.