Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the duration of the programme?

The MPhil in Finance is a full-time, nine-month Master's programme.

When does the programme start?

The programme starts with a preparatory Maths & Statistics programme in mid-September.

Can I work part-time while I am enrolled on the programme?

As the MPhil is a full-time programme the University does not permit you to undertake any employment whilst studying for the degree. Visit the online Graduate Studies Prospectus to find out more »

Can I visit Cambridge Judge Business School/talk to faculty or someone from Admissions in person?

Unfortunately, due to the large number of applications we receive, it is not possible for prospective applicants to meet faculty or admissions staff. They will, however, be able to answer any queries you have via the online query form »

Do you hold "open days" for MPhil programmes?

No open days are planned.

When can I apply for the 2014/15 programme?

Applications for 2014 entry will be open from 1 September 2013. You may apply when the appropriate application forms are available on the Board of Graduate Studies website.

What's the deadline for applications?

The closing date for applications will be announced shortly. However, candidates are strongly advised to send in their applications before 31 December 2013.

What are the requirements for entry into the programme?

Applicants for the MPhil in Finance must have or expect to have:

• A very high standard in a degree programme of equivalent level to a UK Bachelor's degree with honours. In most countries this is a first degree (Bachelor's, Licentiate, Vordiplom) but from some countries a Master's level degree may be required. The minimum standard required is a First Class Honours or equivalent. This equates to a CGPA of 3.7/4.0).
• A significant economics or quantitative component in their first degree (and those who wish to follow the financial engineering stream of the degree must have a high level of skill in mathematics, such as would be acquired in an undergraduate degree in Mathematics or a cognate discipline).
• A fluent command of the English language, documented, for those whose first language is not English, by an IELTS or TOEFL test, including the Test of Written English.

The MPhil in Finance programme is a full-time, nine month programme and requires the completion of any current training or education programme or release from your current institution for the duration of your study.

Is there an application fee?

There is an application charge of £50 for online applications and £100 for paper applications. For further details please visit the Board of Graduate Studies website.

Do you require work experience?

We do not require work experience; the MPhil in Finance is a pre-experience programme designed for those with no more than one year of work experience after their first degree. For finance professionals with a minimum of two years work experience who wish to develop their career in finance, we offer a post-experience Master of Finance.

Do you require a GRE/GMAT score as part of the application process?

Applicants are encouraged to take either the GRE or GMAT. Although this is not a formal requirement, for applicants from universities which may not be well known to members of the admissions committee, a strong GRE or GMAT test result may well make a difference.

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination) »
  Cambridge Judge Business School's institution code for GRE is 7020.
• GMAT (General Management Admission Test) »
  Cambridge Judge Business School's institution code for GMAT is WF1-T3-68.
  
  When a GRE score is submitted, a minimum score of 780 in the quantitative section is expected.

I have more than one year of work experience but want to continue to a PhD. Can I be considered for the MPhil in Finance?

Yes, but you will be considered only if you include a 1,500-word research proposal at the time of application. The research proposal is intended to demonstrate your ability to pursue a research-oriented academic career. It should identify the key research questions, review the relevant academic literature in the area, and highlight the expected contribution to knowledge. Those with PhD aspirations who have less than one year of work experience do not have to include a research proposal when they apply for admission to the MPhil in Finance.

Can I send my application materials directly to Cambridge Judge Business School?

Visit the "Applying" webpage for full details on how to apply.

When will I hear if my application has been successful?

You should not expect to hear about the outcome of your application before the end of March.

Do I have to come to Cambridge for an interview?

There are no formal interviews, although in some cases the programme director may contact prospective students for further information.

Which college am I likely to join?

When completing your application form you may choose up to two Colleges at which you wish your application to be considered if you are offered a place on the MPhil in Finance programme. It is possible that the Colleges you choose will not be able to offer you admission. In that case, your application will be circulated to other Colleges. This process is carried out by the Board of Graduate Studies and they will ensure that you receive an offer of a place from one of the colleges once you have a conditional offer to study the MPhil in Finance. Please consult the University's Graduate Studies Prospectus for more details.

Do I have to take an English language proficiency test?

Fluency in English is a pre-requisite for the Cambridge MPhil. If your first language is not English you should take a language proficiency test to show you have the necessary command of the language to get the most out of the programme. You do not need to take the test before you apply, but, if you are made an offer and have not already met our English language requirements, one of the conditions of admission will be that you pass a test at the correct level. You must have achieved the minimum requirements no more than two years before the start of your course.

• IELTS »
  IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the University's preferred test. Details can be obtained from local British Council offices.
  
  IELTS minimum requirement: an overall band score of 7.5 with not less than 7.0 in each element
• TOEFL »
  Where the IELTS test is not available you may take the Princeton TOEFL test (Test of English as a Foreign Language). If you do this, you must take the Test of Written English (TWE) at the same time. A TOEFL score without the Test of Written English is not acceptable. The University's institution code for TOEFL is 0908.
  
  TOEFL minimum requirement: 637 in the paper-based TOEFL test with 5.5 in the Test of Written English (TWE)
  
  TOEFL Internet-based Test (iBT) minimum requirement: overall score of 110, with not less than 25 in each element

Do I need a visa to study at Cambridge?

Please consult the University's Graduate Studies Prospectus for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements. The following websites provide information on whether you will require a visa to study in the UK. These sites include information on how to obtain a visa, and the paperwork you are required to submit. Also included is the location of your nearest British Embassy or Consulate:

• UK Visas »
  Website of the joint Home Office and Foreign & Commonwealth Office Unit
• UKCOSA »
  Website designed especially for overseas students who wish to study in the UK

What is the cost of the MPhil in Finance programme?

For study in 2013/14, the University Composition Fee for the MPhil in Finance programme is £9,363 and the average College Fee is £2,408. If you are coming to Cambridge alone, then you can expect to spend a further £11,750 on accommodation, food, travel and other expenses.

Are the fees different for overseas students?

Yes - the University Composition Fee for the MPhil in Finance programme is £17,880 for study in 2013/14 for overseas students. All other fees are the same as for UK and EU/Exchange students.

What scholarships do you offer?

There are a range of scholarships available to our MPhil students. Visit the "Fees & Financing" webpage for details of scholarships, bursaries and loans.

I have more than one year of work experience but want to continue to a PhD. Can I be considered for the MPhil in Finance?

Yes, but you will be considered only if you include a 1,500-word research proposal at the time of application. The research proposal is intended to demonstrate your ability to pursue a research-oriented academic career. It should identify the key research questions, review the relevant academic literature in the area, and highlight the expected contribution to knowledge. Those with PhD aspirations who have less than one year of work experience do not have to include a research proposal when they apply for admission to the MPhil in Finance.