Admission FAQs
You’re sure to have questions as you go through the process of applying for admission to Boston College’s MSF 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.
Is work experience required for admission to the MSF program?
No. The MSF Program is designed to meet the diverse needs of finance professionals, career changers, and recent undergraduates. Check our class profiles to learn more about our current students’ academic backgrounds and work experience.
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 MSF class?
Yes. We encourage you to learn more about the program by touring our beautiful campus, sitting in on a class and speaking with current students. 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 MSF program?
Interviews for the MSF 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 or assistantship, 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) and Boston College’s Graduate Financial Aid Application/Validation form (pdf). Please note that federal student aid is available for United States citizens only. Contact the Office of Student Services at Boston College for more information.
When will I find out if I have received a scholarship or an assistantship?
Scholarship offers are made at the same time as acceptance decisions or in the weeks following.
What are the estimated tuition and expenses for the MSF Program?
Tuition for the 2012–2013 academic year is $1,372 per semester credit for MSF 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 MSF for additional information.
Program Information
Does the MSF Program prepare students for the CFA exam?
The primary purpose of the MSF Program is to prepare student for careers in finance, not to pass the CFA exam. However, our students have achieved a high success rate on the exam in the past several years.
Can I receive credit for previous course work?
Full-time students can receive equivalency credit for up to two courses and must substitute those courses with elective courses. All students interested in receiving equivalency credit or advanced standing 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.
If I have not completed all the prerequisite courses for the MSF program, can I take them at Boston College after I am enrolled in the program?
Students interested in the MSF program must already have completed coursework in Statistics, Calculus, Accounting, and Financial Management prior to enrolling in Boston College.
These courses can be completed at any accredited 4-year degree granting institution, including online universities. Students must earn a grade of “B” or better in order to meet the requirement. You are welcome to submit your transcripts via email at bcmsf@bc.edu if you are unsure if you have satisfied all the prerequisites.
Next Steps
I’ve been admitted to the MSF 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 MSF 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 and how do I register for classes?
Once you have been admitted to the MSF Program, you will gain access to a website for admitted students that explains the registration process and everything else you need to know about enrolling at Boston College.
When does the fall semester begin?
Orientation for the full-time MSF Program traditionally begins the Wednesday before Labor Day, while orientation for part-time students is typically held in late August. Boston College 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) works 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.