Application Process and Timeline

Application Instructions

**Please note:  Our application system is used by all Graduate Programs at UIUC.  Please refer to the instructions below when completing your application as the instructions provided on the application may differ depending on the program you're applying to.  

• Complete an online application.
• Pay application fee as part of your online application ($70 domestic/$90 international).  We are unable to provide a fee waiver for international applicants.  Domestic applicants may see if they qualify for a fee waiver here.
• Upload unofficial transcripts and degree certificates to your application.
• Provide official GRE or GMAT scores, if including them with your application. They are not required.
• Provide 3 letters of reference.  They must be sent electronically from a university or company email address, be signed and appear on official letterhead.
• Provide your most recent resume with dates of employment (note: work experience in this field is not required to apply). 
• Provide an Academic Statement of Purpose. **Please note:  The online application asks for a personal statement of up to 500 words.  For MSFE applicants, please limit your statement to 300 words. This document should be uploaded to your application. 
  • How has your academic and professional background, including any professional training, prepared you for graduate study?
  • How will our program help you achieve your intellectual and professional goals?
  • What are your academic interests, and why do you wish to pursue graduate studies in this specific program?
• Provide responses to the Personal Statement Short Answer Essay prompts on the application: 
  • Personal Statements 1 & 2 are required and should be limited to 250 words. 
  • Personal Statements 3 & 4 are optional and should be limited to 250 words.
• Upload a short video, no more than 2 minutes in length.  Videos should be uploaded to the application.  We can not accept a link to an outside platform or website to view your video.  Please answer the following prompts in your video essay:
  • "Why do you feel you are best suited for the MS Financial Engineering Program?"
  • "What are your career goals after completing our program?"
• Answer all other required prompts and questions on the application.

Application Review Dates for the Fall 2025 Cohort (see deadlines here):

No applications will be accepted after APRIL 15th, 11:00PM CST.

Send all ETS scores to:
TOEFL: Institution Code 1836, Department 99
GRE: Institution Code 1836, Department: leave blank

Send GMAT scores to:
Reporting Option: Univ. of Illinois/Urbana-Champaign - MSFE

Questions? Email msfe-apply@illinois.edu