Application Process

The application process for all McCoy College of Business graduate programs are the same. However, MSDAIS, MSMRA, and MSQFE applicants are required to submit three (3) letters of recommendation; other programs require only two (2) letters of recommendation. All other application steps are the same.

Official Transcripts

For the purpose of applying to graduate school, you may either upload copies of your transcripts or you can request official transcripts directly from the colleges / universities you have attended. If you upload copies and are accepted to a McCoy College graduate business program, you will receive instructions on how to submit official transcripts.

GMAT or GRE Exam Scores

Either the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required for all McCoy graduate programs — except for the MAcy and MSAIT programs.  

Your scores are submitted electronically by the testing company once you register for and sit for the exam. You do not need a program-specific code when you register for the exam; simply select "Texas State University" from the drop-down list when you register for the exam.

Exam Waivers

Depending on the program you are applying for, you may be eligible for an exam waiver. Read more about the exam waiver criteria. Waivers are generally based on the following:

• Holding an advanced degree from a regionally-accredited U.S. institution (all programs) or certain international institutions upon review of the Graduate College
• Valid GMAT or GRE scores which are only slightly (6 months or fewer) outside the five-year expiration window (all programs)
• Undergraduate GPA in last 60 hours (except for the MSDAIS program)

We do not waive the exam based on work experience, certificates, or for any reason other than those listed above.

For all other program applicants either the GMAT or GRE is required.

Résumé

Please submit a current résumé. For most applicants, a résumé will include descriptions of your work experience, education, extracurricular and community activities, skills, honors, and/or achievements. Don't overthink your résumé — a standard business format is fine.

Letters of Recommendation

Applicants should identify individuals who are able to articulate their ability to succeed in graduate school. Within the application system you will be asked to provide the name and email address of the individuals who are going to author your recommendation letters. These individuals will receive an email along with instructions on how to submit their letter on your behalf. While you will never see the actual letters, you will be notified when each letter has been submitted.   

Please note that MAcy, MBA, and MSAIT, applicants are required to provide two (2) letters of recommendation, while MSDAIS, MSMRA, and MSQFE applicants are required to provide three (3) letters of recommendation.

Essays

Two essays are required of each applicant. The essay topics are:

1. Why have you chosen to pursue a graduate business degree at Texas State University? What do you hope to accomplish during your time in the program?
2. Tell us about your three most significant accomplishments. Why do you view them as such? What lessons did you learn from them?

The essay questions are designed to allow you the opportunity to elaborate on your views on a topic. There is no requirement regarding length, however, your essay should succinctly and completely state your position on the topic. For most applicants, two pages per essay is about right.

Statement of Purpose (Optional)

Applicants may provide a Statement of Purpose — essentially a cover letter — as a part of their application. This document, which is also referred to as a "Personal Statement," provides an opportunity to address the admissions committee in a conversational way and highlight aspects of your background or application that you think are especially relevant.