M.S. in Business - Finance

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 80

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent. This is typically around 65% or higher, depending on the grading system of the institution.
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 100.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 120.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 65.                                                                                                                             
3. NACES approved credentials evaluation required 

Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.

2. International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.

3. VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.

4. VCU School of Business Scholarships: The School of Business at VCU offers scholarships for international graduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships aim to support students who have demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership qualities.

5. VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.

6. VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.

7. VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.

9. External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.

10. Graduate Assistantships: While not traditional scholarships, graduate assistantships at VCU provide international graduate students with opportunities for financial support. These positions may include teaching, research, or administrative roles and often come with stipends and tuition waivers.

It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Business program with a concentration in Finance at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a prestigious and specialized program designed to prepare graduates for rewarding careers in the finance industry. Graduates of this program are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in various finance roles across diverse sectors.

1. Financial Analyst: Many graduates pursue careers as financial analysts, where they analyze financial data, assess investment opportunities, and provide recommendations to clients or organizations.

2. Investment Banking Analyst: Graduates can enter the competitive world of investment banking, working for top financial institutions in roles related to mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and financial advisory services.

3. Corporate Finance Specialist: Within corporations, there's a demand for finance professionals who can manage finances, make strategic financial decisions, and optimize the allocation of resources. Graduates can work in corporate finance departments.

4. Risk Manager:  Risk managers are responsible for identifying and mitigating financial risks within organizations. They ensure that businesses are prepared to navigate economic uncertainties. Graduates can pursue careers in risk management.

5. Financial Planner/Advisor: Graduates can become financial planners or advisors, helping individuals and families make informed financial decisions, plan for retirement, and achieve their financial goals.

6. Portfolio Manager: Portfolio managers manage investment portfolios on behalf of clients or organizations. They make investment decisions to achieve specific financial objectives.

7. Hedge Fund Manager: Some graduates choose to work in hedge funds, where they manage investment portfolios with the goal of generating high returns for clients or investors.

8. Private Equity Analyst: In private equity, analysts assess potential investment opportunities in private companies. They play a critical role in the acquisition and management of these investments.

9. Financial Consultant: Financial consultants offer specialized financial advice to individuals or organizations. They may work independently or with financial advisory firms.

10. Real Estate Analyst: For those interested in real estate finance, there are opportunities to become real estate analysts, evaluating real estate investments and developments.

11. Ph.D. and Research Opportunities: The M.S. in Business - Finance program provides a strong foundation for those interested in research and academia. Graduates can pursue doctoral studies in finance, conducting research to advance financial practices and contribute to academia.

12. Entrepreneurship:Some graduates choose to leverage their finance expertise to start their own financial consulting or investment businesses.