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FAQs

View these FAQ's and if the question you have is not listed, then visit our online message boards to "Ask Admissions"

General Questions

  1. How do I obtain a paper application?
  2. What are the application deadlines?
  3. What is the difference between the early admissions deadline and the regular admissions deadline?
  4. Do the application materials need to be postmarked with the date of the deadline?
  5. What do I need to submit and must everything be submitted at once?
  6. What are the average or minimum GRE scores and GPA requirements?
  7. How many students apply each year? How many do you accept?
  8. Is a formal interview part of the application process?
  9. I wasn't accepted or declined my offer of admission. Can I reapply?
  10. Do you accept transfer students?
  11. Do I have to take the TOEFL or IELTS?
  12. Do I need to submit translations of my official documents?
  13. Can I get an application fee waiver?
  14. How do I pay the application fee?
  15. Can I substitute the GMAT for the GRE?
  16. I have taken several courses at a variety of universities. Do I need to submit official transcripts for all of them?
  17. Whom should I ask to write my letters of recommendation?
  18. Can I have my recommendations sent by my college's letter file service?

Waiting for the Decision and Responding

  1. I have submitted everything . . . now what?
  2. When will I find out if I have been admitted and how will I be notified?
  3. Can I get an early decision?
  4. How do I accept my offer?
  5. Can I defer my admission?
  6. What is the waitlist, and when will I get a final answer?
  7. I wasn't admitted and would like some feedback. How can I obtain that?

Financial and Fellowship Information

  1. How much does it cost to attend IR/PS?
  2. Which fellowships will I be considered for if I fill in the Fellowship Statement?
  3. Is it possible to receive a full fellowship for my first year?
  4. How do I apply for Federal Student Aid?

Questions about the Program

  1. How long are the programs?
  2. What courses are required?
  3. Do you have a Ph.D. program?
  4. Can I study part-time?
  5. Do you offer evening courses?
  6. Do you have an online/distance learning program?
  7. Can I take courses at other departments within UCSD?
  8. What is the difference between the MPIA, MAS-IA, and the GLI programs?
  9. What does APSIA stand for and what does it do?

General Questions about Applying:

1. How do I obtain a paper application?

Regrettably, we no longer have printed versions of our applications. You may access the online application here: http://graduateapp.ucsd.edu.

2. What are the application deadlines?

The priority MPIA admissions deadline is December 4, and the round two MPIA admissions deadline is January 15. Decision notification for the early deadline can be expected by the first week in February. Decision notification for the round two deadline can be expected by the first week of April.

After January 15, MPIA applications are reviewed in order received on a rolling admissions basis. Students will be notified within 4 - 6 weeks of receipt of entire application.

3. What is the difference between the early admissions deadline and the regular admissions deadline?

The early admissions deadline allows you to receive notification of your admissions status earlier. This is not a binding admissions process, meaning you are not required to attend IR/PS if you are admitted. You can still apply to other programs and have more time to make your final decision.

4. Do the application materials need to be postmarked with the date of the deadline?

If you plan to apply to the MPIA program by the early deadline, submit the online application and supporting online materials no later than 11:59 pm on December 4. Any posted materials must be postmarked by Monday, December 5. Applications submitted later will be considered for the subsequent deadline (January 15, 2012). For those applicants applying by the standard deadline (January 15), all materials must be postmarked by January 17 as January 15 is a Sunday and January 16 is a public holiday.  We realize that international mail takes a bit longer and request that our international applicants take that into consideration when submitting their application materials to us.

5. What do I need to submit and must everything be submitted at once?

Click here for an application overview.

While we prefer to receive all application materials together, it is not required. If you can collect the items that you know you'll be sending in (statement of purpose, C.V., letters of recommendation, for example), and send those in together, it would be much appreciated. However, we realize that your test scores and transcripts will arrive separately from your other materials. As long as we receive everything by the deadline, you will be fine.

6. What are the average or minimum GRE scores and GPA requirements?

The University of California requires an overall 3.0 upper division GPA (on a 4.0 scale). Some exceptions can be made for applicants who are close to the 3.0. However, these exceptions are extremely rare and typically require that the rest of the applicant's application packet is stellar in every other way.

Statistics for the class entering September 2011:

3.6
 Average GPA - Undergraduate
685 Average GRE - Quantitative
560 Average GRE - Verbal
4.5 Average GRE - Analytical
665 Average GMAT
90 Minimum TOEFL
2.8 Average years of professional experience

Please keep in mind that there are a variety of factors that influence the admissions process. Grade point average and test scores are important, but not decisive. Each year, the applicant pool changes and admissions decisions are made based on comparing each applicant against his/her peers. We look at GPA and test scores, but also the type of program and university the applicant attended, relevant work experience, the statement of purpose and the letters of recommendation all play a deciding role.

7. How many students apply each year? How many do you accept?

We generally receive around 450 applications for the MPIA program for entry each year. Our September 2011 starting class size is 135.

8. Is a formal interview part of the application process?

Interviews are required for international applicants requesting a waiver of the English language exam (TOEFL or IELTS). The admissions committee does not interview all applicants. If an interview is needed, we will contact you directly.

9. I wasn't accepted or declined my offer of admission. Can I reapply?

Applicants who were not offered admission to IR/PS may reapply in subsequent years. Applicant files are kept for one year. Please contact IR/PS Office of Admissions to notify us of your intent to reapply and to confirm your application materials are still on file.

All individuals reapplying to IR/PS must submit a new application, pay the application fee, and adhere to any new application requirements. Certain materials, such as test scores, transcripts, and letters of reference may be used again. Please keep in mind it is the responsibility of the applicant to verify test scores have not expired and that letters of reference are up-to-date. Notify the IR/PS Office of Admissions in writing and indicate which documents, if any, you wish to reuse.

10. Do you accept transfer students?

Based on previous coursework, you might be able to waive some of the courses but you will still be responsible for completing 98 units of graduate coursework at IR/PS (for the master’s program). The application process is identical to requirements for other candidates.

11. Do I have to take the TOEFL?

All international applicants whose native language is not English and whose undergraduate education was conducted in a language other than English must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or IELTS and submit their official test scores to the Office of Graduate Admissions.

Arrangements for taking the TOEFL may be made through the nearest United States Embassy or the Educational Testing Services at http://www.ets.org/toefl/. Consult the TOEFL website for further information. The minimum TOEFL score required for consideration for admission is 550 for paper and pencil administered test, or 213 for the computer-based test. UCSD's TOEFL code is 88.  the minimum IELTS band score is 7.0.

12. Do I need to submit translations of my official documents?

Yes. All foreign documents, such as official transcripts and letters of recommendation must be translated by an official translator and notarized as authentic translations by a notary public.

13. Can I get an application fee waiver?

Only U.S. citizens and permanent residents may request a waiver of the application fee. Waivers are provided to applicants who are: 1) currently receiving need-based financial assistance from an undergraduate or graduate institution; or 2) claiming financial hardship based on current federal tax return income data; or 3) participating in selected federal, state and private graduate school preparation programs. You must have the name and e-mail of the program director. All fee waivers are granted provisionally and applicants are required to provide supporting information and documentation to finalize the waiver. The fee waiver request is done online with the online graduate application. Click here for directions for submitting fee waiver documentation.

14. How do I pay the application fee?

You must use an acceptable credit card (Visa, Master Card, Discover, American Express, JCB) or check card (Visa, Master Card) to submit an electronic application. The company that provides the online application service won't forward your application to UCSD until you pay the fee. Just because you received a PIN number does not mean that your application was processed or received by UCSD. Anyone who begins the application process receives a PIN. If your application is submitted online you will receive a confirmation number after your payment is cleared.

15. Can I substitute the GMAT for the GRE?

Yes, if you are applying for the MPIA program. We will accept only the GMAT or GRE examination.

16. I have taken several courses at a variety of universities. Do I need to submit official transcripts for all of them?

Yes, please submit transcripts for any college or university that you attended as part of your post secondary education.

17. Whom should I ask to write my letters of recommendation?

We prefer to have at least one letter from a direct supervisor who can comment on your skills as an employee. We also request that at least one of your letters comes from a professor who can comment on your academic performance and potential. The third letter can be from either of those areas or perhaps from a volunteer supervisor, if applicable. Please be sure not to ask family members or a high ranking official who does not know you personally.

18. Can I have my recommendations sent by my college's letter file service?

Yes, these letters are fine. Please keep in mind, however, that we would like to see at least one letter from an employer. If letters are sent directly to the admissions office by your college, you will not be required to send UCSD's letter of recommendation forms.

Waiting for the Decision and Responding:

1. I have submitted everything . . . now what?

We understand that you are eager to obtain the decision on your application and will work diligently to get decisions out as quickly as possible. We will send you notification when your file is complete and being sent to the admissions committee for review. Please limit your questions about whether or not your file is complete; the fewer interruptions we have, the faster we can process all applications.

2. When will I find out if I have been admitted and how will I be notified?

All students are notified via E-MAIL. Please make sure that you check your e-mail address thoroughly each day, including the spam folders. If you apply by December 5, you can expect to receive a response by late January/early February. If you submit your application by January 15, you can expect a decision at the beginning of April.

3. Can I get an early decision?

The only way to get an earlier decision is to apply by December 5.

4. How do I accept my offer?

You can accept your offer online. Instructions on how to do so will be e-mailed to you. Please also know that there is a bit of paper work involved. Please be sure to check your e-mail account frequently. Most of our communication is done via e-mail.

5. Can I defer my admission?

If deferral is granted by the IR/PS Admissions Office, you must submit your seat deposit and a $1000 deferral fee. Both will be credited to your account upon enrollment.

6. What is the waitlist, and when will I get a final answer?

Given the limited number of new student seats each year, we often have more qualified students than we can admit. This often results in some of our applicants being waitlisted. As we get a clearer picture of how many new students confirm their acceptance to the program, we are able to determine if there will be additional openings for students on the waitlist. If you are on the waitlist you are not automatically guaranteed admission, nor does it mean that you have to accept our offer of admission, should we extend it.

We will let you know if you are on the waitlist and request that you inform us of whether or not you wish to continue to be on this list. You may have already accepted a spot at another university and do not need to be on IR/PS' waitlist any longer. By notifying us of your desire to either remain on the waitlist or be removed from it, you will inform us of your level of interest and also give another student a chance, if you are not interested. We will notify all waitlisted students by early May of their status.

7. I wasn't admitted and would like some feedback. How can I obtain that?

We'll be happy to give you feedback on your application after the admissions process is over. Please submit your request via email. Please note that we will respond to such requests in June.

Financial and Fellowship Information:

1. How much does it cost to attend IR/PS?

Click here for the latest cost estimates.

2. Which fellowships will I be considered for if I fill in the Fellowship Statement?

All of our applicants are considered for fellowships. If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may also apply for the San Diego Fellowship. This fellowship program provides two awards: The San Diego Fellowship and the Eugene Cota-Robles Fellowship. Both provide fellowship support to those students who merit admission into graduate programs at UCSD and whose presence would enhance diversity to the benefit of the entire campus community. Two of the Cota-Robles Fellowships are designated as McNair Fellowships and awarded to nominees who participated in the Ronald McNair Program as undergraduates. An American Indian recipient, if any, of the Cota-Robles Fellowship will be awarded the Irene McFarland Trust Fellowship, which will be substituted for part of the Cota-Robles Fellowship. Although the university seeks racial, ethnic, and gender diversity, California law prohibits preferential treatment of individuals or groups on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consequently, selection of award recipients may not be based on these criteria.

3. Is it possible to receive a full fellowship for my first year?

This is possible for our top candidates. Typically 25 percent of our incoming class will receive IR/PS fellowships of varying amounts. However, most award recipients are responsible for part of the cost of their graduate education.

4. How do I apply for Federal Student Aid?

We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens and residents complete the FAFSA shortly after January 1 and submit by March 2. This will make you eligible not only for loans but also for some of the grants that are available to graduate students.

Questions about the Program:

1. How long are the programs?

The MPIA program is a two-year, full-time program consisting of 98 quarter units.

2. What courses are required?

Click here for a list of the core curriculum; for a complete list of course offerings please review the UC San Diego online catalog.

3. Do you have a Ph.D. program?

IR/PS offers a joint Ph.D. degree with the Department of Political Science. This department also has their own Ph.D. degree program. The program is extremely competitive and purposely kept small. We typically are able to accept one to two new students each year.

4. Can I study part-time?

The MPIA program is full-time. IR/PS also offers an executive degree program called the Master of International Affairs (MAS-IA) which can be completed full-time in nine months, or part-time in eighteen months. Click here for more information about the MAS-IA. Additionally, IR/PS offers classes through the Global Leadership Institute (GLI), which is a great alternative for executives looking to sharpen their tools. Click here for more information about GLI.

5. Do you offer evening courses?

While there may be some courses in the early evening hours, most of the classes are during the day.

6. Do you have an online/distance learning program?

No, IR/PS is not offering online or distance learning courses or programs.

7. Can I take courses at other departments within UCSD?

With prior permission by both departments, some of your electives may be taken at other departments.

8. What is the difference between the MPIA, MAS-IA, and the GLI programs?

The MAS-IA program is an executive degree program for applicants posessing a minimum of five years of professional experience and relevant international experience. The program can be completed full-time in nine months or part-time in eighteen months. Click here for more information about MAS-IA. GLI is designed for working professionals seeking additional exposure to the various areas of international management, international relations and comparative public policy. The program's duration ranges from ten weeks to two years. Upon completion, the participant receives a certificate of study. Click here for more information about GLI. The MPIA program is a two-year, full-time program which leads to a Masters degree.

9. What does APSIA stand for and what does it do?

Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs.

The Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA) comprises member schools in the United States, Asia and Europe dedicated to the improvement of professional education in international affairs and the advancement thereby of international understanding, prosperity, peace and security.

APSIA members work to promote excellence in professional, international affairs education worldwide by sharing information and ideas among member schools and with other higher education institutions, the international affairs community and the general public.

APSIA.org serves as a clearinghouse of information for prospective students and employers. For more information, please click here.

 

For more information on admission to the School of International Relations and Pacific Studies please contact the Office of Admissions or call (858) 534-5914.

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