A Gies PhD begins your path to an academic future in business

Admission to the program is based on a variety of factors, credentials, and accomplishments. A strong program candidate will have the desire for an academic or research career in business administration, will have completed an undergraduate or graduate thesis, and will have previous research experience.

Applications are considered for fall semester only, with a deadline of December 15 of the year prior to desired entry.

Criteria for Admissions

Candidates who meet the criteria for admissions will have:

• Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0
• GMAT/GRE score information
• BA or BS degree
• Basic level of proficiency in statistics
• Demonstrated English proficiency for the required teaching assistantship using TOEFL/IELTS*

*For international students, financial support is contingent upon the student being certified to teach by receiving a passing score on the speaking portion of either the TOEFL-iBT or the IELTS or the English Proficient Interview (EPI), administered on campus. These scores must be less than two years old from the date of entry.

Admissions Process

To apply to the program, please submit the following by December 15 for admittance to the subsequent fall semester:

• Completed application form at grad.illinois.edu
• Statement of purpose
• Résumé
• Three letters of reference
• Transcripts including proof of degree(s)
• Official GRE/GMAT score information
• English proficiency*

*International students must show English proficiency per the Graduate College requirements: https://grad.illinois.edu/admissions/instructions/04c.