Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

December 15 of each year for Management & Organization; January 15 of each year for Marketing; and February 1 of each year for all other fields.

When are decisions reached?

Generally March or April for entry in the fall semester.

How many applicants do you expect to admit?

The number varies from year to year, but typically each program admits between two and four applicants.

Do you take applicants for spring semester?

Rarely. We prefer doctoral students to begin classes in fall semester only.

I already have an MBA. Do I still need to provide a GMAT score?

Yes.

If I already have an MBA, how long does it take to complete the doctoral program?

We anticipate that each person will need between four and five years to complete the doctoral program whether or not they already have an M.B.A. degree.

Do you accept GMAT or GRE scores?

The GMAT is required for applicants in accounting. The other departments (finance, management, marketing, real estate, and supply chain and information systems) prefer GMAT scores, but the GRE is an acceptable alternative. Scores must be no more than five years old.

What is your institution code for the GMAT/GRE?

#ZZ8-HD-09 for GMAT ( #2682 prior to January 1, 2006 for GMAT); and #2660 for GRE.

How can I find out more information about international student admissions?

To learn about immigration processes, international student organizations, and other issues related to international admissions, please go to the Office of International Students and Scholars Admissions page.

Note that all students admitted to the Smeal Ph.D. Program are typically supported through research/teaching assistantships that cover tuition, fees, stipend, and a student health plan.

How do I begin the application process?

To begin the application process, please go to one of the Web sites below.

International Applicants residing outside the U.S.

U.S. Applicants and International Applicants residing in the U.S.

What is your institution code for the TOEFL?

#2660

Must I take the TOEFL? What is the minimum TOEFL score requirement?

TOEFL score is required of all international candidates who have not received a degree from a U.S. college or university at the time of submission of their application. Candidates must earn a score of at least 240 (CAT) or 585 (paper based). The TOEFL is required of all applicants whose native language is not English. For info on the TOEFL Exam visit http://www.toefl.org/.

Applicants for fall 2006 who are submitting the new Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) must achieve a minimum cumulative score of 80 on all four sections (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) and a minimum score of 23 on the speaking section. Submit scores to Institution Code #2660.

Can I be admitted provisionally?

No, students must meet the requirements for admission in order to be accepted into the program. We do not offer provisional acceptance.

Will I receive financial aid?

Ph.D. students receive twenty hour/week Research/Teaching Assistantships that include a tuition waiver, a student health plan, and a stipend for living expenses. There are also a limited number of scholarships and fellowships available. Please check with the Ph.D. adviser of the field in which you are interested for the up-to-date information concerning the financial aid package. For estimated living expenses, check the information provided by the Bursar's Office.

What is State College like?

State College is a university town in the center of Pennsylvania that has been rated as one of the least stressful communities in the nation. The town has grown rapidly in the last decade. For more Web information see Centre County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Town & Gown, and State College.

Direct flights from the nearby airport take you to Washington D.C., Detroit, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. Driving distances to major cities are: Pittsburgh, three hours; Philadelphia, four hours; Washington, D.C., three hours; New York, four hours.

For more information on State College, please visit Local Community.

What housing options are available?

Most students prefer to live off campus, although there are dormitory rooms on campus for single students and married student housing for families. Local bus service is extensive, providing service to campus and other points in town.

For more information on life in State College, please visit Local Community and Spouses, Etc.