Apply to Rochester

How and When to Apply

Applicants can apply using our online application. The application deadline is December 15, 2024, and there is a $70 application fee.

We are now accepting applications for the fall 2025 term, we do not have a spring intake.

Application Materials

Your application must include all of the following materials to be considered:

  • Statement of Purpose
  • Diversity Statement
  • Transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Three reference letters
  • English essay
  • Writing sample

Statement of Purpose

Your statement of purpose should be a clear, readable narrative that contains information relevant to your economics graduate program application. Statements are best kept to approximately 500-600 words. It should address why a degree in economics will further your professional and academic goals. If you feel there are areas in your application that deserve explanation, address them concisely in your statement. Do not repeat information found elsewhere in your application.

The Statement of Purpose should clearly describe your reasons for applying to the University of Rochester, your preparation for your field of study and your research/professional interests. In the statement you can reflect on how your background aligns with the University’s core values of Meliora—ever better—including equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. You may explain how your unique experiences will shape your future pursuits in economics. Please share here any information you think is relevant for the admissions committee to evaluate your application.

Additional Requirements

GRE Testing

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a requirement to apply to our program. Please submit official results to the university through the GRE website.

The GRE institutional code for the University of Rochester is 2928. Be sure to use the exact same spelling of your name on both your application and test score report.

English Proficiency Test Information

All international students whose native language is not English are required to provide proof of English language proficiency through the submission of official test scores from one of the following exams:

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL or TOEFL iBT Home Edition
  • Duolingo

Please note that scores more than two years old from the application deadline are not valid.

Applicants should send their IELTS scores to the following address:

University of Rochester
Graduate Studies
500 Joseph C Wilson Blvd
PO Box 270401
Rochester NY 14627

TOEFL scores can be submitted using the code 2928. A department code is not necessary

Duolingo scores can be sent directly to the University of Rochester at no cost.

English Proficiency Waiver Policy

The English Proficiency test requirement is waived for citizens of the following countries whose native language is English:

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Commonwealth Caribbean Nations
  • Ghana
  • Ireland
  • Kenya
  • Liberia
  • New Zealand
  • Nigeria
  • Singapore
  • South Africa
  • Uganda
  • United Kingdom
  • Virgin Islands

The English Proficiency test requirement may also be waived if a student has completed at least three years of full time and in-person postsecondary study in one of the countries listed above and the United States. We reserve the right to require further demonstration of English proficiency, even if you have received your degree from one of the above-mentioned countries.

If you would like to be granted an English Proficiency Waiver for these exams, please email: graduate.admissions@rochester.edu.

Application Process and Timeline

Applications are not reviewed until after the application deadline. It usually takes at least several weeks after the application deadline to receive a decision letter.

Decisions are released to candidates as soon as the committee determines eligibility. Notification may be staggered over several weeks. Please be patient as your application is being reviewed by multiple committee members.

The Department of Economics does not conduct interviews.

Non-Discrimination Policy

The University of Rochester values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity for persons regardless of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by law. Further, the University complies with all applicable non-discrimination laws in the administration of its policies, admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs and activities.

Questions on compliance should be directed to the school or department and/or to the University's Equal Opportunity Coordinator:

University of Rochester
P.O. Box 270039
Rochester, NY 14627-0039
Phone: (585) 275-9125

Questions?

If you have any questions related to your application, please reach out to the Department of Economics academic administrator:

Elizabeth Proctor
ealouisa@ur.rochester.edu
Graduate Coordinator
Harkness Hall, RC 270156
(585) 275-8625