Master of Science in Management (MSM) Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of the most common questions asked about the Master of Science in Management (MSM) program.
Where do I send my official transcripts?
You do not need to send official transcripts until you are admitted to our program.
The College does not require official transcripts unless you are admitted to our program. After being admitted, a student may bring or send their official transcripts to:
The Graduate College
110 Coble Hall
801 S. Wright St.
Champaign, IL 61820
My recommender cannot use the online system. What do I do?
The College prefers to have recommendations submitted online. If he/she is unable to do so, please ask your recommender to send the letter directly to business-msm@illinois.edu or mail to:
Business Graduate Programs - ATTN: MSM Program
Gies College of Business
3019 Business Instructional Facility
515 E. Gregory Dr.
Champaign, IL 61820
I have below a 3.0 GPA. Is it worth applying?
Yes, we don’t look at just GPA when admitting qualified candidates, but a low GPA can be countered by a strong GRE or GMAT score. In addition, we are looking for well-rounded candidates and consider all aspects of a candidate’s application including work experience, leadership qualities, and the optional essay which explains your GPA score to name a few areas. Don’t let a low GPA stop you from applying.
Is the GRE/GMAT really optional?
Yes, this test is not required, but it can help your application particularly if you have a low GPA, but it will not hurt you if you don’t include it.
Can I do more than one concentration or specialization or do I have to take one at all?
If you are interested in doing more than one concentration or specialization, it would likely require an additional semester, which you are permitted to do. However, you are not required to do a concentration or specialization. In fact, you can start in one specialization and decide on taking other courses outside of specialization if you wish. The specialization will allow you that flexibility.
If I didn’t study business, am I going to be lost in the program?
No, this program is designed for candidates with or without a business background to teach you the fundamentals of business management.
International Students Only
Where can I get a Declaration and Certification of Finances form?
The form is available in PDF format within the online application or at http://www.grad.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/pdfs/certoffinances.pdf.
Do I have to submit a Declaration of Finance Form when I submit my application?
It is highly recommended that this form be submitted with the application. It will save time if admitted to our program. Students who submitted their proof of funding at the time of application received their I‐20 approximately three weeks earlier than those who waited until admission.
My TOEFL score is less than the 103. May I still apply?
Yes. A TOEFL score of less than 103 will require you to take the English as a Second Language Placement Test (EPT). Based on the EPT results, applicants are generally required to enroll in noncredit “English as a Second Language” courses. For more information, please review the Graduate College’s English proficiency requirements.
I completed a degree in a country where English is not the primary language, but my education was completely in English. Do I still need to submit my TOEFL scores?
Yes.
Does a certification from The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) count towards my eligibility if I have a 3-year undergraduate degree?
Yes, if you have passed all three levels of the ICAI certification, the Illinois Graduate College will consider you eligible for limited status admission with a 3-year bachelor’s degree for Business Graduate Programs.