Master of Science in Foreign Service

Requirements and Recommendations

Requirements:

• High academic achievement, a clear commitment to international affairs, and related work or academic experience and achievements.
• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited university (or the equivalent) with a record showing promise of success in graduate studies. The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences requires a 3.0 (or its equivalent) cumulative GPA.
• Two (three credits each) courses in Macro and Micro Economics with a final grade of B or better. Courses in economic development, comparative economic systems, economic geography, economic history or other such courses are not considered as substitutes for the principles of economics courses listed above.
• Submission of standardized tests by the application deadline.
• A completed application, including the application fee, all official transcripts(with translations if applicable), three letters of recommendation, the combined Supplemental Data Sheet and Foreign Language Proficiency form, a statement of purpose, a resume, standardized test scores and supplemental materials.
• Fluency in English.

Recommendations:

• Overseas work, volunteer, or study, usually for a year or more, prior to matriculation.
• Work experience related to your area of interest. For example, if you are interested in Development or Conflict, it is helpful to have experience abroad in developing or conflict regions of the world.
• Foreign language proficiency 
• The ability to perform research, work in teams, and give oral presentations. 
• Present a balanced application. Each year, the MSFS Program receives between 800-1000 applications. Successful applicants generally show a strong academic record, standardized test scores, and essay, combined with professional work experience, accomplishments and activities. 
• Qualitative evidence of personal character, intellectual potential, and professional promise.