Our Most Frequently Asked Admissions Questions: Part One
Applying to a One-Year Master’s Program is an exciting step in your journey, but it also comes with plenty of questions. From when to apply to interview prep and everything in between, we know there’s a lot to consider.
To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the most frequently asked admissions questions and provided answers to help you navigate the process with confidence. Whether you're just starting your application or putting on the finishing touches, this guide is here to support you every step of the way.
Exams and WES Evaluations
Do I need to submit a GMAT or GRE score?
If you have an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.30 or higher, you're eligible to waive the GMAT or GRE. Our application includes a question asking you if you meet this GPA requirement, if you wish to waive this requirement, you simply check the checkbox saying that you meet the requirement, and you won't be required to submit a score. Know that if you do waive this entrance exam, it will not have a negative impact on your application.
International students, your WES evaluations will be used to determine your waiver eligibility. Anyone without an undergraduate GPA of 3.30 or higher will be required to submit an exam score.
Do I need to submit a WES evaluation?
If you earned your degree at a non-U.S. institution, including Canada, you will be required to submit a course-by-course ICAP WES evaluation. This evaluation converts your transcript to the U.S. standard GPA grading scale, which helps to ensure a fair evaluation of your application. The WES process does take six to eight weeks to complete, so we recommend getting started as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, we can't evaluate your application without all materials, including the WES. When possible, your application will be moved to the next deadline if all materials are not received by that round’s deadline.
Do I need to take the TOEFL or IELTS exam?
If your native language is not English, you must demonstrate competence in English by taking either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. International applicants who studied at an accredited institution where English was the sole language of instruction for the entirety of their undergraduate degree are exempt from the TOEFL or IELTS requirement.
We require a score of 7 on the IELTS or 100 on the TOEFL, and we do not accept MyBest scores.
STEM-Certification
Does my program of interest qualify for an OPT STEM extension?
Our MBAn, MSCM, and MAcc programs are STEM-certified, which means that graduates have a two-year extension of their optional practical training period. However, our MM program is not STEM-certified.
Financial Aid and Funding Your Degree
Does Michigan Ross grant scholarships?
Yes, we extend scholarships to applicants with outstanding merit and/or financial need. To apply, simply complete the scholarship questions included in the application form. Interest in scholarships has no bearing on your admissions decision and award amounts will vary by available funding and by the number of applicants.
Can I work while enrolled in my program?
Our programs are full-time and rigorous. While many students do work part-time while enrolled, we recommend keeping work hours to about 10 hours per week. Additionally, most core courses are offered exclusively during business hours, so full-time work is not possible.
Application Timing and Interviews
When should I apply?
Application deadlines run on round-based cycles. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as admissions is highly competitive, however, please make note of the respective enrollment deposit deadlines for each round. Please note the final deadlines for students requiring a visa, and be sure to review the application requirements pages for details and specific application deadline dates.
To be considered for an application deadline, the admissions office must receive all of your materials by the deadline. If all application materials are not in by the deadline, the application will be pushed to the next deadline.
Is an interview Required? What is the interview like?
Applicants to our One-Year Master’s Programs are required to complete an asynchronous admissions video interview through Kira Talent. You can expect to be asked behavioral questions. We are not evaluating your academic competencies but are looking to assess your critical thinking and leadership skills, as well as how you align with the Michigan Ross mission and values.
