The Master of Science in Finance (MSF) at the Michael G. Foster School of Business has been intentionally designed as a new graduate program to serve early-career, pre-experience candidates seeking a rigorous, full-time education in finance as an immediate next step after undergraduate study.
The admissions process for the MSF is focused on identifying students with strong academic preparation, quantitative aptitude, and a clear interest in finance-focused career paths. Applicants are selected not only for their potential to benefit from the program’s curriculum and applied learning environment, but also for the perspectives, discipline, and collaborative mindset they bring to a cohort-based experience.
By enrolling a focused inaugural cohort, the MSF is designed to support an immersive and academically rigorous learning environment, one that enables close engagement with faculty, peers, and career-focused programming while students build strong foundations in corporate finance, investments, financial markets, and analytics in preparation for early-career roles in finance.
In-Person
Format
Seattle Campus
Location
10 months
Program Duration
Full-time
Courseload
Daytime classes
Schedule
Application Deadlines
The MSF Applications open on Oct 1, 2026.
The Master of Science in Finance is a full-time, in-person program with a single annual entry point. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as spaces are limited.
Note: International applicants seeking F-1 visas are encouraged to apply in earlier rounds to allow sufficient time for visa processing. Late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Technical Readiness self-check
To determine if the Master of Science in Finance is the right next step for you, ask yourself:
- Have you completed undergraduate coursework involving quantitative analysis, such as calculus, statistics, economics, finance, or data analysis?
- Are you comfortable working with numbers, formulas, and analytical problem-solving in a fast-paced academic environment?
- Are you prepared to engage immediately in rigorous, full-time graduate coursework in finance and financial analysis?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, you are likely well prepared for the academic demands of the MSF.
Applicants with limited quantitative or analytical background are encouraged to review the curriculum carefully and reach out to the admissions team to discuss readiness and preparation prior to applying.
The Application Process
We welcome applicants who demonstrate strong potential for success in finance and data-driven decision-making. Successful candidates come from a range of academic backgrounds, hold a bachelor’s degree, and have a solid quantitative foundation.
Ideal applicants are comfortable working with numbers, interpreting data, and solving analytical problems. They are interested in developing skills in financial analysis, modeling, and decision-making, and are motivated to pursue analyst-level roles in finance and related fields.
We take a holistic approach to admissions and carefully review all components of your application, including academic performance, professional experience, and written materials.
Application Requirements
All applicants must submit the following materials:
- Online Application Profile
- One Written Essay
- Professional Resume
- One Letter of Recommendation
- Test Scores: GRE or GMAT (optional)
- Transcripts and GPA Calculation
- English Language Proficiency, if applicable
- Self-Review of Qualifications
- Video Essay
- Non-refundable application fee ($90)
Online Application Profile
Begin your application by creating an online application profile. You can save your progress and return to your application at any time before submitting.
Within the application system, be sure to select the correct program:
- Select “Graduate” under Program Selection.
- Search by campus.
- Select “Seattle.”
- Select “Master of Science in Finance – Foster School of Business.”
- All submitted information is subject to verification.
Essay
There is one required Statement of Purpose and an optional Personal Background and Growth Statement.
Statement of Purpose (Required)
In your Statement of Purpose, please describe your motivation for pursuing the MSF degree and how it aligns with your academic and professional goals. The maximum length is 300 words.
You may wish to address:
- Your reasons for pursuing the MSF degree
- Your learning goals and areas of interest
- Your career goals over the next 5–10 years
- How the MSF program will help you achieve these goals
Please provide clear examples where relevant.
Personal Background and Growth Statement (Optional)
The Personal Background and Growth Statement is an optional opportunity to help the admissions committee better understand your background, lived experiences, and personal growth. The maximum length is 300 words.
You may wish to discuss:
- Unique aspects of your background or identity
- Challenges you have overcome or lessons you have learned
- Perspectives you will bring to the MSF community
- Experiences that have shaped your goals or values
This statement should complement—not duplicate—your Statement of Purpose.
Resume
Professional work experience is not required.
Your resume should provide a clear summary of your academic background, work experience, internships, and relevant skills. Include:
- Organization name and role
- Dates of involvement
- Key responsibilities
- Notable achievements or contributions
Letter of Recommendation
One letter of recommendation is required.
Recommendations may come from academic or professional contacts who can speak to your analytical ability, work ethic, and potential for success in a graduate finance program.
Recommenders will receive instructions after being designated in your application.
GMAT or GRE Score
Submitting GRE or GMAT scores is optional but recommended for applicants who want to demonstrate quantitative readiness.
Applicants who choose not to submit test scores should provide evidence of quantitative ability through academic coursework, professional experience, or technical skills.
All applications are reviewed holistically.
Transcripts & GPA Calculation
Applicants must hold the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for the most recent academic work.
You must upload scanned copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Transcripts should include:
- Full name
- Institution name
- Degree or degrees awarded
- Dates of enrollment and graduation
- Course names and grades
International transcripts must include English translations.
English Language Proficiency
Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency.
Accepted methods include:
- A degree from an approved English-speaking institution
- TOEFL
- IELTS
- Duolingo English Test
Official scores must be submitted to the University of Washington.
Self-Review of Qualifications
The application includes a short-answer section where you’ll have the opportunity to describe your academic preparation, quantitative background, and interest in finance.
Please be prepared to respond to the following questions:
- List your academic and/or professional experience in mathematics, statistics, and courses/roles which use quantitative skills.
- Describe any exposure you have had with Finance. This could be courses you have taken, self-study, work experience, discussions with friends or family, etc.
- Indicate any experience with, or exposure to, programming languages.
- Which area of Finance are you most interested in learning about and why?
Video Essay (Digital Portfolio)
For your video essay, you may wish to discuss:
- Unique aspects of your background or identity
- Challenges you have overcome or lessons you have learned
- Perspectives you will bring to the MSF community
- Experiences that have shaped your goals or values
The video may be a maximum of three minutes and should complement—not duplicate—your Statement of Purpose.
The video essay allows the admissions committee to better understand your background, lived experiences, and personal growth, while also observing your verbal communication skills.
Use of AI-generated responses or reading from a prepared script defeats the purpose of the exercise. We value natural and fully human responses. Please refrain from reading your response.
Non-Refundable Application Fee
A $90 application fee is required and must be paid online through the University of Washington Graduate School application system.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Fill out our inquiry form to learn more about the program and be the first to know when applications open.