University of Maryland, College Park – PhD in Finance

Applied economics and finance studies, focusing on business decision-making, market outcomes, innovation and organizational systems, commonly used micromeasuring and empirical methods

Economics, finance, mathematics, statistics, econometrics, financial engineering, public economics, finance, mathematical economics, etc.

• Academic background: A bachelor's or master's degree in economics, finance, mathematics, statistics or a related subject. GRE or GMAT scores obtained within the past five years are required. Minimum GPA: 3.5/4.
• Language requirements: IELTS overall 7, with reading 7, listening 7, speaking 6.5 and writing 7. For tests taken before 20 January 2026, iBT TOEFL requires a total score of 96, with reading 26, listening 24, speaking 22 and writing 24. After 20 January 2026, the corresponding new scores are total 5, reading 5, listening 5, speaking 4.5 and writing 5.

Applicants who have earned a recognised university degree in an English-speaking country do not need to submit English-language scores.

1. Academic curriculum vitae
2. Statement of Purpose (SOP): needs to include a doctoral application core, with academic preparation, scientific interest, goals, matching mentors, etc.
3. Personal Experience (personal experience): 100–300 Word, focus on non-academic experiences, two orientations: community service/ leadership/ guidance/ overcoming barriers, highlighting the positive skills that this experience brings to you, how to help you to read successfully
4. Official report card and degree certificate (non-English version with a certified English translation)
5. TOEFL or IELTS report
6. 3 for recommendation
7. GMAT or GRE official report card (effective achievement within five years)
8. Additional materials such as scientific research/ job history description (if any, add sub-items)

This is a 5–6 year full-time PhD programme and accepts direct entry from a bachelor's degree. Applications open in August and close on 19 December.