Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the duration of the programme?

The MPhil in Management Science & Operations is a full-time, nine-month Master's programme.

When does the programme start?

The programme starts at the beginning of October.

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 meet with the faculty before I apply for the programme?

Unfortunately, faculty are unable to meet with prospective applicants. Faculty will be happy to meet admitted candidates before the start of the programme.

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

Unfortunately, due to the large number of applications we receive, it is not possible for prospective applicants to meet 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 2013/14 programme?

Applications for 2013 entry will be open from 1 September 2012. 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 is 29 June 2013. However, candidates are strongly advised to send in their applications well before this date and ideally before 31 December 2012.

What are the requirements for entry into the programme?

Applicants for the MPhil in Management Science & Operations must hold or to be about to achieve:

• An excellent degree equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree with honours in a discipline with a strong quantitative orientation, e.g. mathematics, physics, engineering, mathematical economics. In most countries the equivalent to a UK Bachelor is a first degree but from some countries a master's level degree may be required. The minimum standard required is a First Class Honours or equivalent, which translates in most countries into 'A' grades. From the USA we expect a CGPA of 3.7/4.0. We strongly advise applicants from non-UK institutions to take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) general test.
• 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 Management Science & Operations is a full-time programme and requires the completion of any current training or education programme.

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?

Work experience is not required but relevant work experience is appreciated.

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

A GRE/GMAT score is not required, but is strongly recommended for students from outside Europe or the US, or from lesser known universities in Europe and the US.

Do you require a full research proposal for admission?

A full research proposal is not required but a brief, 500 word statement of research interest would be useful in assessing your application.

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 Management Science & Operations 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 Management Science & Operations. 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 Management Science & Operations programme?

For study in 2013/14, the University Composition Fee for the MPhil in Management Science & Operations programme is £3,924 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 Management Science & Operations 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.