MS in Finance Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale may still be considered if they hold a STEM designated undergraduate degree or can demonstrate at least one year of relevant professional experience in finance, data analysis, technology, or related fields.

Official transcripts from all post secondary institutions are required. The department will evaluate quantitative readiness based on coursework in areas such as statistics, calculus, linear algebra, programming, or economics. A minimum of one undergraduate level course, or equivalent professional training, in statistics is preferred.

If any quantitative deficiencies are identified, applicants may be admitted conditionally and required to complete a bridge course prior to enrollment.

Submit a 500 to 750 word personal statement that outlines your career goals, explains how the MS Finance curriculum will help you achieve those goals, and describes any relevant quantitative or analytical experience you have gained. Applicants must also clearly demonstrate their interest in financial analytics as part of the statement.

Provide a current resume detailing your academic background, professional experience, internships, skills, and extracurricular activities. Quantitative or technical experience is highly valued in the application review process.

A letter of recommendation is encouraged but not required. For applicants with non finance backgrounds or lower GPAs, it is recommended that the letter highlight quantitative strengths. Applicants may upload a free form letter or request a recommendation directly through the Cal State Apply system.

Strong letters of recommendation typically come from professors, supervisors, or professional colleagues who can speak to your academic ability and potential for success in graduate study.

No GMAT or GRE required, aligning with the program's emphasis on practical analytics skills over test scores.

International applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English must demonstrate proficiency by one of the following:

• TOEFL: 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT), or 79–80 (iBT) within the last two years.
• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 within the last two years.
• Duolingo: A minimum score of 110 within the last two years.
• CSUSB Intensive English Program: Completion of Level 4.
• Applicants who have completed at least three years of full-time study at an institution where English was the primary language of instruction are exempt.

Applicants may submit a portfolio of quantitative work (e.g., a research project, financial model, or data analysis sample) to strengthen their application, particularly for those from non-traditional backgrounds.

• Proof of financial support is required for visa issuance (I-20). If dependents will accompany you, plan for additional funding of $1,800 per spouse and $1,200 per child per academic year.
• International students must pay a non-refundable enrollment confirmation deposit before an I-20 can be issued. This deposit secures your place in the MS Finance program and is applied toward your tuition balance. Instructions on how to submit your deposit can be found here.
• Health insurance is mandatory and included in estimated expenses.

CSUSB undergraduates meeting the MSF 4:1 criteria (detailed below) may apply directly; contact the MSF Director or department chair for details.

This accelerated pathway allows eligible CSUSB undergraduates to begin MSF coursework in their senior year, reducing time to degree completion. In addition to the university requirements, invitations are based on:

1. Academic Standing: Must be a CSUSB undergraduate with junior standing or higher.
2. Residency Units: Completed at least 12 upper-division units in residence at CSUSB.
3. Coursework: Completed FIN 3001 and FIN 3002 with a GPA of 2.75 or higher across these two courses or instructor's recommendation.
4. Graduation Timeline: Not in the semester of baccalaureate degree completion.
5. Overall GPA: Minimum CSUSB GPA of 2.75, or by the MSF Director’s or department chair’s consent.

Students who accept an invitation into the MSF 4:1 Option program receive conditionally classified status. Status becomes fully classified upon the bachelor's degree completion. Graduate assistantship may be available for qualified students on a competitive basis.