Standardized Tests
Is the GRE or GMAT required?
Standardized test results are generally required for admission.
Is the TOEFL required?
If you are an international applicant, your application must also include an official score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or IELTS - unless your native language is English, or you received a four year undergraduate or four-year graduate degree from an institution in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia or New Zealand. A TOEFL score of 600 on the paper-based exam, 250 on the computer-based exam, and 90 on IBT is usually required for admission. A IELTS score of 7.0 is also highly encouraged. Brandeis IBS also requires an official English translation of academic documents.
What is the Brandeis code for TOEFL/GRE/GMAT?
The code for Brandeis IBS is 3122.
I haven't taken the necessary tests. Will my application be considered?
The committee normally reviews only completed applications.
Interviews
Is an on-campus interview required?
No, but we would be delighted to help you schedule a visit to Brandeis. Please contact us in advance to make an appointment. We can make arrange for you to sit in on a class as well as meet with admission representatives, professors and students. We also organize several information sessions at Brandeis during the year. If you cannot make it to campus, we encourage you to consider submitting a video interview. Please contact the Admissions Office to learn more about our video interviews. Interviews are recommended, especially for those interested in scholarship opportunities.
Can I meet your representatives in other places?
Yes, our admissions staff travels to many cities in the US and abroad. Our admissions office can also arrange for informational interviews with alumni and other representatives.
Background
Am I required to have work experience?
Work experience is highly valued in our admissions decisions, but is not absolutely required for any of our programs.
Must I have majored in economics to apply for Brandeis IBS programs?
Not generally, but it provides a helpful foundation for the PhD.
Do I need a strong math background?
Yes, the PhD program requires prior courses in more advanced mathematics.
Do I need to have specific courses as preparation for Brandeis IBS programs?
Yes, our programs require some prior undergraduate courses.
Am I required to have a master's degree to apply to the Ph.D. Program?
No, it is not a requirement.
Selection
What part of the application does the Committee consider most important?
The committee considers academic and professional background, test scores, recommendations, and professional objectives outlined in your essay.
What percentage of applicants is admitted?
Approximately 10% of applicants in the PhD have been admitted in previous years.
Can you give me an early assessment of my chances for admission?
Many factors are considered in admissions and we cannot give you an assessment before the process is complete. However, we do respond quickly - usually within one month after the deadline by which you apply.