M.S. in Taxation, Pathway - 2 Semesters

Entry requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate students applying to American University are expected to demonstrate strong academic qualifications in their previous studies. While specific requirements may vary depending on the program, applicants typically need to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The academic qualifications requirement generally falls within the range of 83% to 86%, depending on the program and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 6 is required with no band less than 5.5.
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): The minimum TOEFL iBT (internet-based test) score 74 with no band less than 20 is required.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The minimum PTE Academic score required is 50 with no band less than 46.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): The minimum DET score of 100 is required with no sub-score below 90.

American University (AU) in Washington D.C., USA, is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing financial assistance to international students through various scholarship programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top talent from around the world and make an American University education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.  

Global Leader Scholarship: The Global Leader Scholarship at American University is a merit-based award offered to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

International Peace Scholarship: The International Peace Scholarship is awarded to international students who have a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and social change. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible students enrolled in undergraduate programs at American University.

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship: The AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have overcome significant obstacles and challenges to pursue their education and demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. This scholarship covers full tuition, room, and board for the duration of the student's undergraduate studies at AU.

AU International Merit Scholarship: The AU International Merit Scholarship is awarded to international students with exceptional academic achievements and strong leadership qualities. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students enrolled at American University.

AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students: The AU Dean's Scholarship for International Students is awarded to academically talented international students who demonstrate financial need and have a strong commitment to academic excellence. This scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate students at AU.

AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students: The AU Transfer Merit Scholarship for International Students is awarded to outstanding transfer students from international institutions who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. This merit-based scholarship provides partial tuition support to eligible undergraduate transfer students at American University.

AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students: The AU Presidential Scholarship for International Students is awarded to top-performing international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements, leadership abilities, and a commitment to service. This prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for eligible undergraduate students at AU.

These scholarships for international students at American University reflect the university's commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. By providing financial assistance and support to talented and deserving students from around the world, American University seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community and prepare students to become global leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. International students interested in applying for scholarships at American University should review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the university's official website and contact the Office of Admissions for further assistance.

Graduates of the Master of Science (M.S.) in Taxation program at American University Washington D.C. are equipped with specialized knowledge and skills to pursue diverse career opportunities in taxation, accounting, consulting, and related fields. The M.S. in Taxation program at American University Washington D.C. prepares graduates for dynamic and rewarding careers in taxation, offering opportunities for professional growth, specialization, and impact in a rapidly evolving tax landscape. Graduates emerge as ethical, knowledgeable, and skilled tax professionals equipped to address complex tax challenges and drive positive outcomes for clients, organizations, and society.

1. Tax Consultant: Graduates may work as tax consultants for public accounting firms, advising clients on various tax matters, including tax planning, compliance, and controversy resolution. They provide strategic tax advice, help clients navigate complex tax laws, and optimize tax strategies to minimize tax liabilities and achieve financial goals.

2. Tax Manager: Graduates may pursue roles as tax managers in corporate tax departments or multinational corporations. They oversee tax compliance, reporting, and planning activities, ensuring adherence to tax laws, regulations, and accounting standards. Tax managers play a critical role in managing tax risks, optimizing tax structures, and supporting corporate strategic initiatives.

3. Tax Analyst: Graduates may work as tax analysts for financial institutions, investment firms, or government agencies. They analyze tax implications of financial transactions, assess tax risks, and provide recommendations for investment decisions, mergers and acquisitions, or regulatory compliance. Tax analysts contribute to effective tax planning and risk management strategies.

4. Tax Attorney: Graduates with a background in law may pursue careers as tax attorneys, specializing in tax law, estate planning, or tax litigation. They provide legal advice on tax matters, represent clients in tax disputes or audits, and assist with tax-related legal documents and transactions. Tax attorneys play a crucial role in interpreting tax laws and advocating for clients' interests.

5. International Tax Specialist: Graduates may specialize in international taxation, working for multinational corporations, law firms, or consulting firms with global operations. They navigate complex international tax laws, treaties, and transfer pricing regulations, ensuring compliance with tax obligations in multiple jurisdictions and optimizing tax efficiency for cross-border transactions.

6. Tax Policy Analyst: Graduates may work as tax policy analysts for government agencies, research institutes, or advocacy organizations. They analyze tax policy proposals, assess their economic and social impacts, and provide recommendations for tax reform or legislation. Tax policy analysts contribute to shaping tax policy debates and influencing decision-making at the local, state, or national level.

7. Tax Compliance Officer: Graduates may work as tax compliance officers for government agencies, ensuring taxpayer compliance with tax laws, regulations, and reporting requirements. They conduct audits, investigations, and enforcement actions to address tax evasion, fraud, or noncompliance issues. Tax compliance officers play a crucial role in upholding tax integrity and fairness in the tax system.

8. Corporate Controller: Graduates may pursue roles as corporate controllers or finance managers with a focus on taxation. They oversee financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls related to taxation, ensuring accurate and timely tax filings and disclosures. Corporate controllers contribute to effective tax governance and financial management within organizations.

9. Tax Educator or Trainer: Graduates may become tax educators or trainers, teaching taxation courses at universities, professional training institutes, or continuing education programs. They share their expertise in tax law, principles, and practice with students, professionals, and aspiring tax practitioners, fostering the next generation of tax professionals.

10. Entrepreneurship in Tax Practice: Graduates may start their own tax practices or consulting firms, offering tax planning, compliance, and advisory services to individuals, businesses, or nonprofit organizations. Entrepreneurial tax professionals have the opportunity to build their own client base, develop niche specialties, and establish their reputation in the tax industry.