The Master of Supply Chain Management (MSCM) program starts once per year in June.
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Application Workshop
Admissions Events
International Applicants
FAQ
Application Deadlines
Priority
November 5th, 2024 (11:59pm PDT)
ROUND 1
December 10th, 2024 (11:59pm PDT)
ROUND 2
January 14th, 2025 (11:59pm PDT)
NOTE: The MSCM program encourages new F-1 visa seeking international students to apply early to allow for sufficient visa processing time.
Application Requirements
We’re looking for individuals who’ve shown high potential in supply chain management. We value applicants who have not only excelled academically but can also enrich our student body with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
Strong communication and quantitative analysis skills are key. Make sure to showcase these through your qualifications, test scores, or relevant experiences. Additionally, we’re interested in what unique perspectives and knowledge you can bring to our program. Please be aware that we will verify all the information in your application, including your adherence to the admission requirements, to maintain the integrity of our process.
Application Process
Please ensure all application materials, as detailed in the following sections, are submitted by the deadline.
Our ‘Recorded Application Workshop’, an online guide, offers a step-by-step walkthrough of the application process and required materials. For specific information on each requirement, refer to the appropriate sections outlined below.
Online Applicant Profile
To get started, click the apply now button below. From here, create your online application profile by selecting the “First-time Users” option or log into your account under “Returning Users”.
Please note that our Summer 2025 application is on a new application system. If you’ve started an application or applied prior, you will need to create a new user account and a new application in the new system.
Once in the application system, applicants should follow the prompts to start a new application. After creating an application, ensure that you follow these steps to select the correct program:
- Under “Program Selection” select “Graduate”
- Select search “By Campus”
- Select “Seattle” under filter by campus
- Select “Business Administration – Foster School of Business – M of Supply Chain Management”
- You may save your information and return as often as you’d like until you submit your completed application. All aspects of your application, including the fulfillment of these requirements, are subject to verification.
Essay
There is one required Statement of Purpose and an optional Personal Statement.
Statement of Purpose – Required
What are your professional goals, and how will a Supply Chain Management degree help you achieve them? (maximum 300 words)
Personal Statement – Optional
Write a Personal Statement (maximum 300 words). The optional Personal Statement is an opportunity for you to share more about yourself, your past personal and educational experiences and any other information you think is important for the admissions committee to know. The Personal Statement is a supplement to the Statement of Purpose and should not be used to repeat information.
The essay should be clear and provide specific examples, if relevant. If appropriate, please address the following questions in your essay:
- What else should the admissions committee know about your unique background, experiences and perspective?
- Why will your background, experiences and perspective make you a good MSCM student and future business leader?
- What is your motivation for applying to the Foster School of Business?
- Have you previously applied to the MSCM program? If so, how has your application improved?
Resume & Work Experience
Post-undergraduate professional experience is desirable, but not required. The range of work experience of the current class is 0 – 10 years.
Your resume must be uploaded to your online application. It should be a complete summary of your education and professional work history in reverse chronological format. For each position, include:
- Company name and division/group/department
- Position title
- Dates of employment or internship
- Responsibility summary – a 2 to 4 sentence section describing your primary responsibilities for each position
- Accomplishment bullets – 2 to 4 bullets for each position
Transcripts & GPA Calculation
You must have completed the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university to be considered for admission. The minimum GPA is 3.0 for the last 90-quarter or 60-semester credits. Studies conducted outside of the U.S. need to be converted to a four-point scale (see below) and translated to English. Transcripts are required for all undergraduate and graduate-level institutions attended.
We review each applicant’s undergraduate history, taking note of the difficulty of the curriculum, the scholastic quality of the school, and the existence of any social or economic disadvantage that may have affected past academic performance. Your prior scholastic performance should indicate an ability to complete graduate-level work.
Required format for all transcripts
Do not send official transcripts to our office via mail. Scan copies of your original transcripts in PDF file format and upload them to the online application. Make sure to include any transcript keys that describe the institution’s grading scale. These are typically found on the backside of most domestic transcripts.
The Graduate School Application asks applicants to report their Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 0.0 – 4.0 scale for the last 90 quarter or 60 semester graded credits. If your university was not on such a system, please refer to the instructions provided on the Graduate School “Understanding the Application Process” for converting from an international grading system to a 4.0 scale. If you would like to calculate your GPA prior to applying, the application refers applicants to the Foreign Credits website, and to use the GPA calculator for this process.
If you attended a university that does not grade courses or provide a GPA, check the “I do not have a GPA” box. Self-generated online grade reports or versions that have been cut and pasted into a Word document will not be accepted.
The following information must be on all transcripts:
- Full name of applicant (former names are acceptable if indicated on application)
- Name of degree-granting institution
- Title(s) of academic degree(s) awarded
- Dates of enrollment, including date of graduation/degree conferral
- Names of individual courses
- Grades, marks, or ratings of individual courses
- International transcripts must include official English translations
- Both marks sheets and degree statements are required, if applicable
Official GMAT or GRE Score Report
Applicants have the option of applying with or without a GMAT or GRE test score.
Applying with a GMAT or GRE score
The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) these exams are offered year-round and can be taken multiple times. Scores are valid for five years and you must take the exam at least two weeks before the admissions deadline to allow for the scores to be matched with your application.
If you have taken the exam more than once, the admissions committee will use your highest total score to evaluate your application.
Request your official scores be sent to the University of Washington MSCM Program. Include your score breakdown in the Self-Reported Test Score sections in the online application.
GMAT Score Reporting: University of Washington – Seattle, Michael G. Foster School of Business, Master of Supply Chain Management (school code: 459-75-78)
GRE Score Reporting: University of Washington (school code: 4854)
While there is not a minimum score required, a total GMAT score of mid-upper 600s and a combined GRE score of 310 or higher would be considered competitive.
Applying Test Optional
Applicants without test scores should demonstrate quantitative and program readiness by meeting at least two of the following criteria:
- Strong quantitative or analytical ability evidenced throughout educational records, with a cumulative GPA at or above 3.3 on a 4.0 scale, and similar grades in quantitative courses.
- An undergraduate, masters, or advanced degree in a STEM field (i.e., science, technology, engineering, statistics, economics, finance, information systems, mathematics) with robust academic performance.
- Completion of at least four 300-to-600-level (or U.S. equivalent) quantitative or analytical courses.
- Two or more years of progressively responsible professional work experience demonstrating deep quantitative or analytical skills.
Please note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission to the Foster MSCM Program. We evaluate holistically.
All applicants who choose to apply Test-Optional are required to answer the following prompt:
“Please detail the specific evidence in your academic and/or professional experience that supports your analytical and quantitative preparedness for success in the program.” (75 words maximum)
Proof of English Language Proficiency
Proficiency in English is required for admission to a graduate program at the University of Washington. If your native language is not English you are required to demonstrate English language proficiency in one of the following ways:
- A bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or from an institution in Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago, or the United Kingdom.
- Official documentation from the applicant’s undergraduate degree-granting institution (if the institution is in a country other than those listed above) verifying that all instruction is in English. A minimum of three years of enrollment at the undergraduate institution is required and the degree must be equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree.
- Complete an English Language Proficiency exam below
TOEFL iBT | TOEFL MyBest | DUOLINGO | IELTS | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Minimum Score | 92 or higher | 92 or higher | 125 or higher | 7.0 or higher |
NOTE: Most test scores are valid for two years. Applicants with scores below the minimum score requirements are highly encouraged to retake the exam before submitting an application. Scores must be sent directly to the University of Washington (school code 4854).
Letters of Recommendation
Two recommendation letters are required. Preferably, recommendations should be provided by professional contacts versus academic or personal contacts. Designate your recommenders in your online application profile. Recommenders will receive an email directing them to the online recommendation form.
Prior Experience Short Answer Questions
You are required to complete the Prior Experience section on the application to more easily explain your technical skillset. Answer Yes or No in the drop-down.
If yes, please write approximately two sentences to describe your experience, related coursework and/or knowledge into the corresponding text box for each of the following areas:
- Math, Probability and Statistics
- Programming & Tech Tools (e.g. ERP Systems, SQL, R etc.)
- MS Excel
- Prior exposure to Supply Chain Management
Video Interview
You are required to complete a short video interview while your application is under review. The video interview allows us to get to know you better, evaluate your communication skills and your ability to think quickly and creatively. Interview invitations and instructions will be sent via email.
Non-refundable Application Fee $85
The fee can be paid only online via the UW Graduate School application portal, using a MasterCard or Visa credit/debit cards.
Next Steps
Notification of Admission Decision
Completed applications will be reviewed after each round and decisions sent approximately 6 weeks after the applicable deadline. All communication regarding the status of the application, including admission decisions, will be through email only. Application status updates will be displayed on the online application status page.
Offer and Tuition Deposit
Once an offer of admission has been made, the applicant will have two weeks to consider the offer and pay a non-refundable, non-transferrable $3,000 tuition deposit. This deposit must be paid with a credit card online and is applied to the summer quarter tuition balance.
International Applicants
If you are an admitted international applicant and indicated you would be requesting an I-20 or DS-2019, you will be given separate instructions. The request for visa status requires you to provide statements of financial ability. Due to the program starting in summer quarter, there is a limited amount of time to submit your request and provide the financial documents. Delaying this process may result in not obtaining your visa in time to join the program.
Due to the program starting in summer quarter, there is a limited amount of time to submit your I-20 request and provide the financial documents. Delaying this process may result in not obtaining your visa in time to join the program.
MSCM Orientation
All admitted students are required to attend our Orientation activities mid-June, prior to the start of classes. “Welcome Week” will occur during the week of June 16th and all activities are in-person on the Seattle Campus. The sessions are designed to help you get to know your classmates and prepare you for success in the program.
Application Workshop
Watch a recorded presentation that guides you through each step of the application. You’ll learn more about the application requirements, tips to consider when applying, and an overview of the process.
Admissions Events
We host several different events to help you learn about the program, gain application tips, and connect with us to find out if the Foster School’s Master of Supply Chain Management program is the right fit for you.
Open House
Learn how our blend of data analytics and business strategy prepares the quantitatively inclined to tell data-driven stories that propel business growth. During this interactive presentation, we’ll walk you through a live full information session, covering topics like the Foster School of Business, our MSBA program, and how and when to apply. Check the calendar for upcoming dates!
The MSCM Experience
Hosted in the fall, our MSCM Experience series covers life in the classroom, cohort, and field. We start our series with a mock class hosted by faculty. Then we host panels featuring member of the MSCM community, including current students. Check out our calendar for event time and registration details.
Workshops
Gain insightful tips to submit your strongest application to the MSBA program. Each workshop will cover a singular topic or application component, like resumes, essays, and video interviews. Check the calendar for upcoming workshops!
Open Advising Hour
Join other prospective students in getting answers to your questions related to the MSCM program, the admissions process, and the application. The session format allows you to ask your specific questions and learn from the questions asked by other attendees.
Fairs
Occasionally, the MSCM program and other Foster specialty masters programs will attend various graduate school and career info fairs. Prospective students are encouraged to stop by and receive information about our program. You may receive some UW Foster MSCM branded swag!
If you have questions, please email [email protected] or call us at 206-543-6849.
International Applicants
Just over 8,100 international students are enrolled at the University of Washington, with over 290 graduate international students enrolled in the Foster School of Business in 2019-2020*. The UW Seattle campus is a vibrant, welcoming institution where education, people, and culture thrive. We hope you will join our global community!
Unsure if you should be applying as an international applicant? You should submit an international application if you are not a US citizen or permanent resident (Green Card holder). While the MSCM application process is mostly the same for all applicants, there are some additional components below that international applicants must submit.
Required application components for international application
Proof of English Language Proficiency
Proficiency in English is required for admission to a graduate program at the University of Washington. If your native language is not English you are required to demonstrate English language proficiency in one of the following ways:
-
- A bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or from an institution in Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, Singapore, Trinidad and Tobago, or the United Kingdom.
- Official documentation from the applicant’s undergraduate degree-granting institution (if the institution is in a country other than those listed above) verifying that all instruction is in English. A minimum of three years of enrollment at the undergraduate institution is required and the degree must be equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree.
- Complete the TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Home Edition exam. Minimum score requirement is 92 iBT / 580 PBT, though we recommend a score of at least 100. Request that your official scores be sent directly to the University of Washington from ETS (school code 4854). Include your score breakdown in the Self-Reported Test Score section in the online application.
- Complete the IELTS exam. Minimum score requirement is 7.0, though we recommend a score of at least 7.5. Request that your official scores be sent directly to the University of Washington via the “E-Delivery service” option. Printed hard copy Test Report Forms will not be accepted. It could take up to 21 days for the University of Washington to process your results so please take the exam well in advance of the application deadline. Include your score breakdown in the Self-Reported Test Score section in the online application.
- Complete the Duolingo English Test. Minimum score requirement is 120, though we recommend a score of at least 125. Request that your official scores be sent directly to the University of Washington from Duolingo by selecting, “University of Washington Graduate Admissions (Bothell, Seattle, Tacoma).”
NOTE: Most test scores are valid for two years. Applicants with scores below the minimum score requirements are highly encouraged to retake the exam before submitting an application. Unfortunately, the Foster MSCM program cannot admit applicants with scores below the minimum score requirement.
Transcripts & GPA Calculation
You must have completed the equivalent of a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university to be considered for admission. Transcripts are required for all undergraduate and graduate-level institutions attended.
The Graduate School Application asks applicants to report their Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 0.0 – 4.0 scale for the last 90 quarter or 60 semester graded credits. If your university was not on such a system, please refer to the instructions provided on the Graduate School “Understanding the Application Process” for converting from an international grading system to a 4.0 scale. If you would like to calculate your GPA prior to applying, the application refers applicants to the Foreign Credits website, and to use the GPA calculator for this process.
Program Cost & Financing
The total program fee for the 12-month MSCM Program is approximately $45,000 for residents and $49,500 for non-residents*. Other expenses will be extra. For a full estimate of costs, please see our expense chart.
International students are encouraged to pursue private educational loans available from their home country. UW’s International Student Services (ISS) Office provides information on Financial Assistance for International Students. Additional resources are available at eduPASS and IEFA. Non-U.S. Citizens/Permanent Residents are not eligible to apply for U.S. federal financial aid.
For future planning, admitted applicants who will be arriving under the F-1 or J-1 visa to study must request the UW Graduate School to issue the immigration document required for your visa interview. You must submit statements of financial ability along with the request to receive the immigration document.
*Fee amount shown is based on the 2024-25 year and is subject to change.
Additional information for international applicants
Working as a Student
International students may work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week. Off-campus employment requires authorization from the ISS Office and many students do not qualify for authorization until they have completed three quarters of study in the MSCM program, have completed a degree program in the U.S. immediately prior to enrolling in MSCM, or have worked in the U.S. under OPT immediately prior to enrolling in MSCM . Upon completion of the MSCM program, eligible students may apply for post-graduation work authorization. For eligible F-1 students in the MSCM program, they may qualify for the STEM OPT extension. See the ISS webpage on employment for more information.
International Student Orientation
In addition to the MSCM program orientation, FIUTS sponsors an Embark session for international students. New students will have the opportunity to meet other new students, prepare for cultural transition to the UW, and learn about maintaining your visa status.
Resources
EducationUSA is a network of advising centers all over the world that provides information and opportunities to study in the U.S.
FIUTS creates programming for creating community on-campus among international and American students. FIUTS stands for, The Foundation for International Understanding Through Students.
UW Graduate School is the first step in starting an application. Visit their site to get a better understanding of the minimum admission requirements and application process.
International Student Services (ISS) works with enrolled F-1 and J-1 students and their dependents. As applicants planning ahead, you may find useful information on their website on employment and visas.
*International Students and Visas At UW: Tableau
Admissions FAQ
Our program begins annually in summer, around mid-June. Unfortunately, we do not offer a fall intake.
Are there any application fee waivers?
Foster doesn’t offer fee waivers. Visit the Graduate School’s website for potential need-based waivers for domestic candidates.
Fee waivers are NOT available to international students.
Am I an international applicant?
If you’re not a US citizen or permanent resident, apply as an international applicant.
What are the application deadlines, and do you offer rolling admissions?
No, we don’t offer rolling admissions. All decisions are sent 6 weeks after the application deadline. However, if you’re an international applicant, we strongly advise applying by the Round 1 deadline in December. This ensures sufficient time for visa processing, with the Round 2 deadline being the final cut-off.
Can I apply to multiple Foster graduate programs?
Yes, separate applications and admissions processes and fees apply.
What if my application isn’t complete?
Your application isn’t reviewed until complete. Ensure all materials are received by the deadline.
Can I join if my undergrad isn’t finished when the program starts?
Sure, as long as you finish all your undergrad work before our program begins. After you officially graduate, please update us with your final transcript.
Absolutely! Our program’s evening and every-other-Saturday classes are specially designed to accommodate your full-time work schedule.
Can I stretch the degree over two years or study online?
The MSCM program is designed to be completed in a sequential, lock-step manner in one year. It’s delivered entirely in-person at our UW Seattle location and requires active participation.
What sets the Foster MSCM program apart?
Our small cohort size (40-45 students) allows for interactive, team-based learning. Plus, one-on-one career coaching, resume reviews, and networking events are offered to all MSCM students.
What job prospects can MSCM graduates expect?
With cross-industry knowledge, our graduates work at the forefront of supply chains globally. Jobs they’ve landed include Supply Chain Manager, Senior System Analyst, and Procurement Manager.
Does this program qualify as STEM?
Yes, Foster’s MSCM program is STEM-designated.
We evaluate holistically, emphasizing program fit and professional growth potential.
When will I hear back about my application?
Typically, we send out admission decisions within 6 weeks after each deadline. Please see the top of the Admissions webpage for approximate decision notification timelines by round.
How will I know my admission status?
All decisions will be sent via email to the email address you used in the application. The status on your application portal will also be updated if you’ve been admitted or denied.
Can Foster provide me feedback on my application if I am denied admission?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide denied candidates with feedback. There normally is not a single deciding factor that led to a denial, and the decision is usually dependent on the competitiveness of the entire applicant pool. If you are interested in reapplying for the program next year and wish to speak with an admissions counselor about ways to strengthen your application, you may contact [email protected] to schedule an appointment.
What if I want to defer my acceptance and attend the following year?
The MSCM program does not allow deferrals. If you would like to start studying the following year, we suggest you wait to start an application until that time.
Can I defer my acceptance and attend the next year?
We don’t allow deferrals. If you wish to start next year, we recommend applying then.
If admitted, how long do I have to accept the offer?
You’ll have approximately two weeks to accept. The exact date will be in your offer email and letter.
What if I don’t respond to the admission offer by the deadline?
If you don’t respond, your offer will be rescinded.
Can I pay a portion of the deposit now and the rest later?
To accept your offer and reserve a seat, you must pay the full $3,000 non-refundable enrollment deposit. We don’t accept partial payments.
I received an offer from a competing program with a deadline but I still have not heard from Foster’s MSCM. What should I do?
Please send an email to [email protected] letting us know about your deadline and we will try to update the status of your application in time for you to make a decision. While we can’t make any guarantees, we will do our best to make accommodations. In the email, please include proof of admission to the other program.
The MSCM program does not offer program-specific scholarships. We encourage applicants to seek external scholarship opportunities, as well as exploring various funding resources on our Tuition, Fees, and Financing page. These resources include federal loans, private loans, international student loans, military benefits, and the UW Graduate Funding Information Services (GFIS).
The video interview is a chance for us to get to know you better and assess your communication skills. You’ll receive instructions, along with practice questions, after submitting your application. Ensure your equipment is working correctly and remember that your responses are timed, so speak clearly and maintain eye contact with the camera.
Is the video interview live with an admissions counselor?
No, the video interview is recorded through Kira Talent. You will be asked a set of randomized questions and the admissions committee does not know which questions you will be asked ahead of time. For each question, you will have a small amount of time to prepare your thoughts and then you will have 1 minute to answer. Overall, you can expect to spend 15-20 minutes recording your answers to the video interview.
Do I have to complete the video interview?
Yes, it is a required component of the MSCM application. Your application will not move to review by the admissions committee without it.
When will I receive the invitation for the video interview?
You can expect an email invitation to complete your required video interview from Kira Talent within 2-3 business days after you submit your application. Please check the junk folder of the email address you used to apply to the MSCM program if you haven’t received your invitation within a few business days.
Do I have to complete the video interview before the application deadline?
You are expected to complete the video interview within 5 business days of receiving it. This may or may not fall before the application deadline to which you are applying.
For example, if the deadline is on January 10th, you submit your application on January 8th, we send the video interview email invitation on January 10th, then you have until January 15th to complete the video interview.
Note: these dates do not align with an actual application deadline, they are for example purposes only.
We recommend you report your employment history in reverse chronological order. This helps showcase your professional growth and experience, also placing your most recent role at the top.
In the Employment History section of the application, do I need to list all work experience, including part-time jobs or internships?
While the online application might primarily focus on post-college experience, it’s important that your resume includes all relevant work experience. This includes part-time jobs and internships, as these provide a comprehensive picture of your skills and experiences.
GMAT/GRE is optional. Applicants demonstrating strong quantitative skills through academic work or professional experiences may apply without a test score.
Does Foster prefer one test over another?
No, there is no preference toward the GMAT or GRE and the choice is the applicant’s.
Should I consider applying without a test score? What factors make an applicant well-suited to submit an application without a test score?
Applicants without test scores should demonstrate quantitative and program readiness by meeting at least two of the following criteria:
- Strong quantitative or analytical ability evidenced throughout educational records, with a cumulative GPA at or above 3.3 on a 4.0 scale, and similar grades in quantitative courses.
- An undergraduate, masters, or advanced degree in a STEM field (i.e., science, technology, engineering, statistics, economics, finance, information systems, mathematics) with robust academic performance.
- Completion of at least four 300-to-600-level (or U.S. equivalent) quantitative or analytical courses.
- Two or more years of progressively responsible professional work experience demonstrating deep quantitative or analytical skills.
Please note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission to the Foster MSCM Program. We evaluate holistically.
Can I report my official test scores if I want? If so, how do I go about doing that?
Yes, you may submit your official GMAT/GRE scores if you wish. For GMAT, use school code 459-75-20, and for GRE, use school code 4854.
Are there circumstances in which it might be helpful to submit a GMAT or GRE test score?
Yes, a strong test score can bolster your application, particularly if your undergraduate GPA is below 3.3.
How do I apply without submitting a GMAT or GRE score?
If you choose not to include GMAT or GRE scores, please ensure that you fill out the accompanying question in the “Test Optional” part of your application and leave the GMAT and GRE sections blank. This will help us understand your quantitative and analytical skills and program readiness.
I have taken the GMAT, GRE, or TOEFL more than once. Which score will Foster consider?
We will always consider your highest overall test score.
How soon before the deadline do I need to report my official test scores?
Please send your official test scores no closer than two weeks before the application deadline. Sometimes it can take 10-15 days for scores to be matched to the application system, so we encourage you to send them from ETS or GMAC as soon as you can.
What if my official test scores do not arrive by the deadline?
We cannot guarantee that late test scores will be considered in our evaluation of your admissions application. You should instead fill out the “Test Optional” section of the application and indicate you are applying without test scores. Be sure to email the program of this change.
I plan on re-taking the GMAT, GRE, or English exam after the application deadline. Will my new scores be considered?
You’re welcome to submit updated test scores. Please inform us at [email protected] with the updated scores and the expected date we can receive them. Please note that if we receive these scores before the final deadline, we will do our best to include them in your application review. However, scores received after the deadline are not guaranteed to be considered in your application evaluation.
You should enter your GPA based on the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits when prompted to “Self-Report GPA”. Additionally, when adding your bachelor’s transcript, report and input your cumulative GPA.
Do I need to convert my GPA to the U.S. 4.0 scale, especially if I studied outside the U.S.?
Yes. If your institution’s grading isn’t on a 4.0 scale, calculate your cumulative GPA using the U.S. 4.0 scale. Please use the Scholaro GPA conversion resources provided in the application portal. You do not have to pay for a third party evaluation.
My school does not provide grades. How do I report my GPA?
If your institution uses a different evaluation method from traditional grades, convert it to the U.S. 4.0 scale. If your school genuinely doesn’t offer grades, there’s a box in the application to check indicating this.
My GPA is below a 3.0. Can I still apply?
Yes, you can apply even if your GPA is below 3.0. Each year, we admit applicants whose GPAs might be below the preferred 3.0 but possess strong MSCM qualifications. We advise you to reference our Class Profile and consider ways to bolster your application and showcase your academic preparedness in other sections, such as highlighting relevant work experience, extracurricular activities, or recommendation letters. Our admissions counselors are available for a more in-depth conversation if you’d like. Please reach out by emailing [email protected].
We recommend that you either upload the PDF version of your unofficial transcript OR scan copies of your official transcripts and upload them as a PDF file to your application. Make sure to include all pages and any transcript keys that describe the institution’s grading scale. These are typically found on the back of most domestic transcripts.
Self-generated online grade reports or versions that have been cut and pasted into a Word document will not be accepted.
Where do I send my transcript?
Please do not send transcripts to our office by mail or digitally. You may submit your application using copies of your official or unofficial transcripts. Should you be admitted to Foster, we will provide further instructions on how to submit your official transcripts to the UW Graduate School once an offer of admission is extended.
How do I submit my transcript if the file is too large to upload to my application?
Please attempt to compress your transcript file size using tools such as Adobe Acrobat or other PDF compressors and upload it to your application. If your transcript is still too large, please email [email protected] for assistance.
Does my transcript need to be translated if it is not in English?
Yes, if your original transcript is not in English, you must submit an official translation in addition to the copy of your original transcript. Transcripts and degree documents that are in a language other than English must be accompanied by an official English translation (translated by a university, government official/organization, or a certified translation service, example: American Translators Association).
Do I need to submit transcripts for every school I have attended, including schools that I transferred from or where I did not earn a degree?
Please submit your transcript from the undergraduate institution where you earned your bachelor’s degree at a minimum. We also recommend that you include transcripts for all other coursework that you would like to be considered with your application, including community colleges with transfer credits. You should also include transcripts for any graduate degrees earned or additional coursework taken.
Do I need to submit a transcript if I took classes to earn a certificate or pursued continuing education?
No, transcripts should only be provided when a degree (bachelor, master, doctorate) has been earned. If you would like to highlight certificate or continuing education courses, please add these to your resume. If applicable, you may also add relevant information to the Self-Review of Qualifications section on the application.
I have a 3-year bachelor’s degree. Can I still apply?
The UW Graduate School requires that all graduate students have the equivalent to a 4-year undergraduate degree from the United States for admission. In some situations, additional course work or degrees in addition to a 3-year degree may meet the requirement. If you have questions about your degree prior to applying, please inquire at [email protected].
Yes. If you do not have a current or previous manager to use as a reference, you may use professors. We prefer two professional recommenders such as current supervisor, previous manager, peer team member, or someone you’ve worked with closely in another unit.
What is the deadline for recommenders? Will they still be able to submit their recommendation after the application deadline that I’m applying to?
All application materials must be submitted by the deadline; this includes letters of recommendation. Recommenders should complete their portion prior to the deadline that you’re applying to. Applications will not be reviewed by the admissions committee without completed/submitted letters of recommendation.
Is there a deadline for the recommenders to fill the online form in relation to the date it was sent to them (i.e. within 14 days of receiving the email)?
No, there is no timeline for them to complete it, other than it needing to be completed by the deadline you are applying to.
What can my recommenders expect?
Recommenders will receive an automated email once you designate them in the application system. Make sure you’ve notified and asked them to be a reference before you designate them.
Recommenders will upload a letter of recommendation or type it in directly to the text box.
If I am a re-applicant from a previous year to the MSCM Program, can I reuse my letter(s) of recommendation from a previous year?
Unfortunately, you cannot reuse letter(s) of recommendation. We update components of the application each year and as such the recommendation letter may have a new prompt.
My recommender no longer works at my company, which email address should I use for them?
We recommend using official company email addresses over personal ones like Gmail or Yahoo. If they are at a new company, you may use their new email address, company, and title. If the only email address available is a personal one, please email [email protected] to explain the individual circumstances.
What if my recommender hasn’t completed the recommendation or cannot meet the application deadline?
We suggest that you first reach out to your recommender and follow-up with them directly. If they are non-responsive or cannot complete the recommendation by the application deadline, you should withdraw their information in the application system and then designate a new recommender. Remember, all application materials, including recommendations, must be received by the deadline to which you apply. You will receive email notification when a recommender has submitted their letter.
All applicants should meet the University of Washington’s English Language Proficiency requirement. We cannot waive this requirement and we cannot waive the TOEFL exam. However, you may choose a method other than the TOEFL exam to meet the requirement, if applicable. There are several ways to demonstrate English Language Proficiency outlined in the UW Graduate School Policy 3.2 if English is not your native language.
What are the English language exams that I can take to satisfy the English Language Proficiency requirement?
TOEFL iBT / TOEFL iBT Home Edition
Complete the TOEFL exam. Minimum score requirement is 92 iBT/ 580 PBT, though we recommend a score of at least 100 iBT.
IELTS
Complete the IELTS exam. Minimum score requirement is 7.0, though we recommend a score of at least 7.5.
Duolingo English Test
Minimum score requirement is 120, though we recommend a score of at least 125.
My transcript is in English. Does this satisfy the English Language Proficiency requirement?
No, transcripts in English do not satisfy the English Language Proficiency requirement for a Medium of Instruction document. Your transcript or an official letter from your college or university must clearly state that the Medium of Instruction was 100% in English to fulfill the requirement.
My university conducts all courses in English, do I still need to take an English language exam?
You do not need to take an English language exam if the Medium of Instruction of your entire degree program was in English and your transcript clearly states that the Medium of Instruction was English. In this case, you may provide an official letter from your university stating that the Medium of Instruction was 100% English.
English is not my native language, but I am living and working in the United States. Do I still need to take an English language exam?
You must submit documentation of English Language Proficiency as outlined in the UW Graduate School Policy 3.2 if English is not your native language. Living and working in the United States does not satisfy the English Language Proficiency requirement.
Do I need to submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores? How do I report my official scores to Foster?
Yes, official English test scores are required before your application will move to review by the admissions committee.
If you are submitting the TOEFL exam to meet the English Language Requirement, official TOEFL scores are required. Minimum score requirement is 92 iBT / 580 PBT, though we recommend a score of at least 100. Please submit them to the University of Washington using school code 4854 on the ETS website. If prompted, you should leave the department code blank or use 99.
If you are submitting the IELTS exam to meet the English Language Requirement, official IELTS scores are required. Minimum score requirement is 7.0, though we recommend a score of at least 7.5. Request that your official scores be sent directly to the University of Washington via the “E-Delivery service” option. Printed hard copy Test Report Forms will not be accepted.
If you are submitting the Duolingo exam to meet the English Language Requirement, official Duolingo scores are required. Minimum score requirement is 120, though we recommend a score of at least 125. Request that your official scores be sent directly to the University of Washington from Duolingo by selecting, “University of Washington Graduate Admissions (Bothell, Seattle, Tacoma).”
Does Foster MSCM accept the TOEFL My Best Score?
Yes, we accept the TOEFL My Best Score.
Does Foster MSCM accept TOEFL ITP Plus for China?
No, the Foster MSCM program does not accept TOEFL ITP Plus for China exam scores.