Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application deadline?
Applications for fall admission and scholarship consideration, for both the master’s and the PhD programs, should be submitted by January 3. Learn more.
How do I apply to the Harris School?
Applications must be submitted through the University’s online system. You can save your application and work on it at your convenience. Apply online.
Learn more about the additional information to include with your application.
Can I apply for either spring or fall admission?
No, students at the Harris School matriculate in the fall. Your first year of classes consists of seven core classes that are taught sequentially. If you miss the fall classes, you will not be prepared for the winter quarter classes.
What is the application fee? Is it possible to get an application fee waiver?
The application fee is $50 and non-refundable. Yes, application fee waivers are available. Usually you must provide proof of financial need, such as a letter or copy of your award from the financial aid office of your undergraduate institution. Contact the Admission Office for more information.
When can I expect to receive an admission decision?
Decision letters, including information about scholarship awards, are sent out no later than mid-March.
How much scholarship money does the Harris School provide students?
Awards range from one-third of tuition costs to full tuition plus a stipend. Each year 40 to 50 percent of entering students are awarded some type of scholarship from the School. Learn more.
How do I apply for scholarships or financial aid?
To be considered for Harris School scholarships, you must indicate on your application—submitted by January 3—that you would like to be considered for scholarship. For all other forms of financial aid, you should complete a FAFSA form and contact the Student Loan Administration Office at the University of Chicago.
How many applications do you receive?
For the class entering in fall 2007, we received approximately 600 applications for the master’s program and approximately 150 for the PhD program.
What is your entering class size?
The class starting in fall 2007 consists of approximately 120 master’s and 16 PhD students. Learn more.
What does a typical class look like?
The average age of a student is usually around 27 or 28 years old. The entering class of 2007 is 60 percent female; 15 percent American minorities; and 25 percent international students, representing 18 countries. Learn more.
Is an interview required?
No, but we suggest you visit while school is in session to can attend a class and meet with current students. Visits can be arranged through the Office of Admission. Learn more.
Is work experience required for admission to the Harris School?
No, but it is preferred. We admit less than 10 percent of students directly from undergraduate programs. Our students have diverse backgrounds and at least two to four years of work experience, from both corporate and nonprofit organizations as well as all levels of government.
Can I defer my admission?
Deferrals are considered on a case-by-case basis. We strongly encourage you to apply to the Harris School when you are ready to attend. Contact the Office of Admission for more information.
What is the average GRE test score needed for admission to the Harris School?
In general, the incoming class of 2007 presented test scores in the 70th percentile or higher. Because applications are reviewed on an individual basis, the GRE score is used in conjunction with the other components of your application and does not solely determine admissibility to the Harris School.
What is the average GPA needed for admission to the Harris School?
The average GPA for last year’s incoming class was 3.5. Similar to our GRE requirements, GPA scores are assessed individually dependent upon all elements of the application. If you feel your GPA does not reflect your skills and abilities, we welcome students to include a personal explanatory statement.
What is the Harris School English language requirement?
Applicants may submit either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to meet the English language requirement set by the University. Test scores must be sent directly to the Harris School using code 1849 (a separate department code is not necessary). The minimum score requirements for each exam are as follows:
TOEFL:
IBT – an overall score of 104 with a minimum score of 26 in each subsection
PBT – an overall score of 600 with a minimum score of 60 in each subsection
CBT – an overall score of 250 with a minimum of 25 in each subsection
IELTS - an overall score of 7 with minimum scores of 7 in each subsection.
Scores are only valid for two calendar years from the test date. For additional information on the English language requirement for the University of Chicago, please visit the Office of International Affairs.
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