Master of Science in Financial Engineering

Preferred Pathway Application - for UIUC Students

The Preferred Pathway Application allows current UIUC seniors in their final year, or recent UIUC graduates, to apply directly to the Master of Science in Financial Engineering (MSFE) program with streamlined requirements.

Eligibility & Requirements

  • GPA: Minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA at UIUC.
  • Timeline: Must enter the MSFE program in the Fall semester immediately following undergraduate graduation. (If one year or more has passed since graduation, please use the standard application process).
  • Prerequisite Courses (Grade of "B" or higher required):
    • Calculus: 2 semesters or Calculus I & II
    • Linear Algebra: 1 semester
    • Probability & Statistics: 1 semester
    • Computer Programming: 1 semester (Java, Python, C, or C++)
🙋  Unsure about your eligibility? Email us at msfe-apply@illinois.edu to confirm.
 

Step-by-Step Application Instructions

  1. Start Your Application
  2. Claim Your Fee Waiver
    • Under Application Fee Waivers, check the box for "MSFE Preferred Pathway Program Student".
    • After submitting your application, email msfe-apply@illinois.edu to request approval.
  3. Upload Academic Records
  4. Reference Letter
    • 1 required. Must be a UIUC faculty member submitting on official University letterhead. Enter their name in the portal so they receive a direct submission link.
  5. Academic Statement of Purpose (Max 300 words)
    • Address the following:
      • Your academic background, preparation, and training (including relevant experience)
      • Your academic interests and reasons for pursuing the MSFE program
      • Your short- and long-term professional goals
  6. Video Essay (Max 2 minutes)
    • Upload a short video addressing:
      • "Why do you feel you are best suited for the MS Financial Engineering Program?"
      • "What are your career goals after completing the MSFE program?"
  7. Additional Documents & Prompts
    • Upload your most recent resume.
    • Answer all required short-answer writing prompts.
    • (Optional) Leave GRE/GMAT scores blank unless you wish to submit them.
    • International Students must follow instructions for uploading your passport and funding documentation, as instructed on the application.
⏱️ Decision Timeline
Preferred Pathway applicants are not automatically admitted. An admission decision will be rendered within one month after all required application materials are received. 
 
All final admission decisions rest with the Graduate College and require the completion of any academic degrees that were incomplete at the time of your application and maintaining a satisfactory GPA.