Frequently Asked Questions
Please read this list for the answers to our most frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the answer to your question, please e-mail us.
What is the application deadline?
The earlier you apply, the better. Though there is no hard and fast deadline, there is a limited number of participants that the program can integrate. That is why we do encourage you to apply early. Many applicants usually have complete application submitted by early January. They will be informed of the program decision by February 15. A second set of applications are examined later in March and the program decision is then communicated to participants by April 15. Later applications are only considered if space permits.
When is my deadline to accept an offer of admission?
All offers of admission are made contingent upon space availability. This means that there must still be space in the class when an applicant accepts an offer of admission, or we are unable to enroll him as a student. We have rarely declined enrollment to an accepted applicant, but it does happen occasionally. Applicants are strongly encouraged to let us know their decisions as soon as possible, so that visa and other administrative issues can be dealt with smoothly.
Can I study on-line?
The Heller School does not offer distance learning. Of course, students who are admitted in the program use the intranet to retrieve readings and to facilitate discussions in the different courses.
May I begin in the spring semester?
All degree programs officially begin in the fall semester. Very few exceptions to that rule have been the case.
Do you offer summer classes?
The MBA programs offers several classes each summer.
Can I apply to more than one program?
Many of our students apply who choose to apply to the MA Program in Coexistence and Conflict (COEX), often decide to also apply to the MA Program in Sustainable International Development (SIDCO).
Otherwise, we do not encourage applicants to apply to more than one program. Applicants should read carefully the information and requirements for each program, and then choose the program which most closely fits with the applicant's goals and experience. If the faculty, when reviewing an application, feel an applicant is better suited to a different degree program, they will make that recommendation.
Can I switch programs or change to a dual degree program?
Students who wish to switch to a different program after the offer of admission is made must submit a new statement of purpose and must ensure all application requirements for the proposed program are completed. We encourage such students to discuss their plans with the director of each program. Any offers of financial aid for the initial program become null and void when switching programs. A new offer of financial aid will be made when the student is accepted into the proposed program. All changes in program are effective at the beginning of the semester. Mid-semester changes are not allowed.
Do you have Information Sessions?
We offer several Information Sessions each fall and spring. Please check our schedule often for additional dates and locations.
I'll be in the Boston area; may I visit the Heller School?
The admissions office staff welcome visitors any weekday. We do encourage visitors to come in with classes are in session so that you can sit in on a class, meet with a member or two of the faculty and a student in the program, as well as with financial aid and career services staff. If you email or call (781-736-3820) the admissions office in advance, we will arrange an itinerary for you. If you're just in the neighborhood, do not hesitate to come in for a more casual visit.
Is an interview required?
In most cases, interviews are not required from applicants. Sometimes, however, interviews might be requested, and then they will be conducted by phone or SKYPE, except if the applicant chooses to come in person. After the faculty review an application, they will decide if the applicant is a potential fit with the program. It is often at that time that an interview might be scheduled. The interview may be arranged based on the applicant's availability or the interview may be on one of the scheduled interview days.
It is difficult to travel; may my interview be waived?
If the admission committee requests an interview, it cannot be waived; but a telephone interview can be arranged.
How much experience do I need?
It is important that participants have at least two years' experience, preferably working either in conflict areas or on conflict issues. This can include experience working on issues related to conflicts, such as aid and development, democracy and human rights, military and security issues, constitutional and legislative issues, or diplomacy, civil and social movements.
What is the most important part of the application?
The admissions committee considers all aspects of the application to be important. They will read carefully the statement of purpose and review the applicant's academic and professional background through the transcripts of previous university-level work and the letters of recommendation written by former faculty and professional supervisors.
Is the GRE required?
No, applicants to the MA and MS programs are not required to take the GRE. Applicants to the joint MBA/MA and MBA/MS programs must take the required MBA tests.
What is the minimum required grade point average?
The admissions committee reads the entire application carefully and evaluates the applicant's academic background in concert with the other required components. Though the Heller programs do not have a minimum required grade point average, a graduate program requires strong analytical skills.
Is there a required undergraduate course of study?
No, there are no prior course requirements. As the program is interdisciplinary, participants will be expected to bring varied backgrounds to the program, as well as a capacity to quickly grasp frameworks of learning from other disciplines.
Is transfer credit accepted?
No.
Is there a foreign language requirement?
No, there is not.
Is the TOEFL required?
All applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency. Most students will take the TOEFL or the IELTS The minimum required score on the internet-based TOEFL is 100 and on the paper-based TOEFL, 600. The minimum required score on the IELTS is 7.0
Can the TOEFL be waived?
International students may waive the TOEFL exam if they have earned an undergraduate or master's degree in an English-speaking country or from an institution in which English is the language of instruction. Other international students, with extensive work experience in an English-speaking environment, can include a waiver request with the application. The admissions committee will review this request before granting a waiver.
What are my chances of being accepted?
Many factors are considered when determining who will be admitted to the program, so it is not possible to provide a preliminary assessment.
Will I be notified when my application is complete?
Applicants are notified by email periodically with the status of their application credentials. When an application is complete, the applicant is notified promptly by email.
Is assistance available for applying for a student visa?Complete information on applying for your student visa will be sent to you with your offer of admission. The entire process is outlined on the International Students and Scholars Office site.
