Finance
FAQs
How long is the regular program?
Students in the regular program complete 48 credit hours in six consecutive semesters, including two summers. In the first year, classes are held all day on Saturday, and in the second year, classes are held on Thursday and Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. Summers are mandatory.
How long is the intensive program?
In the intensive program, students complete 48 credit hours in three consecutive semesters, including one summer. Classes are held Thursday and Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. and all day Saturday.
What will I do the rest of the week?
You will be working on assignments in the computer lab. The intensive program requires that you budget at least 40 hours to work on class assignments.
What is the cost of the program?
- Tuition: $51,840 for 48 credit hours (intensive program); $25,920 for 24 credit hours (regular program)
- Books and Supplies (estimated): $1,400 per year
- Health Insurance (estimated):$1,400 per year
- Housing (estimated): $700-$1300 per month. GW does not offer graduate housing, but living options abound near campus and throughout Washington, D.C.
- Living (estimated):$600 - $700 per month
When can I apply?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until May 31. Once ALL required documents have been received, the Admissions Committee will take up to two weeks to review the file.
How will you evaluate my application?
We consider a wide range of criteria when reviewing applications: post-academic performance, depth and breadth of professional work experience, communication skills, TOEFL scores for non-native speakers, and GMAT/GRE scores.
Is the GMAT or the GRE required?
GMAT is required for applicants with less than 10 years of work experience. GRE scores may be submitted instead, but GMAT is preferred.
What is a good GMAT score?
A good GMAT score should fall in the 85% percentile for the quantitative section.
Is work experience required?
We prefer that applicants have a minimum of two years of full-time, progressive, and relevant work experience.
What should I write in my statement of purpose?
We want to understand why you think this program is right for you. What will the MSF program enable you to do?
Is this program right for me?
Ask yourself the following questions: What are my career goals? What are the skills I want to develop? What outcome do I expect as a result of my graduate experience? Evaluate this program based on your answers to those questions.
Where can I find additional financial aid information?
The University's Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships provides information on financing a graduate degree. Visit http://www.gwu.edu/~fellows.
Can students waive classes based on experience or academic background?
In general, they cannot. However, students with very strong backgrounds in a particular subject area can petition to waive a required course to be replaced by an elective as approved by the program director.
Can students transfer courses in coursework?
Students are not permitted to transfer courses from previous graduate studies.
Do you offer career placement services?
The graduate Career Center in GW School of Business offers resources for career searches. The MSF program also sponsors several networking events tailored specifically for our students.
My background in not in business or economics. Can I still apply?
In order to apply, you must hold a bachelor's degree and six hours in economics; six hours in mathematics, including calculus; and three hours each in financial accounting, managerial finance, and statistics. If you lack any of these courses, we recommend that you plan ahead and take them at any community college.