MSW Admissions
Applications FAQ
What do I need to apply to the MSW program?
Prior to enrollment, applicants must have or expect to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; GRE, MAT (if your GPA is less than 3.0, or if interested in a dual-degree program), or TOEFL (if your first language is not English, or your undergraduate degree is not in English) test scores; three recommendations; and official transcript(s). Though it is not required, prior experience in social work or a related field will strengthen your application. For further information on admission requirements, please refer to the BUSSW bulletin at http://www.bu.edu/bulletins/ssw/.
What is involved in the application process?
Applicants interested in the Boston University School of Social Work program need to complete an admissions application. This can be done online (starting Oct. 1) or as a paper application. To request a paper application, please go to http://www.bu.edu/ssw/admissions/request/index.shtml or call 617-353-3765. The application package includes an application form, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, a personal statement, a check for the application fee, and either the Miller Analogy Test (MAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) (as required). International students are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) in addition to either the GRE or MAT (as required). Once completed, the application is given to a faculty reader to review and make a final determination regarding admission to the School.
What is the average GRE, MAT, or TOEFL score admitted by the School?
For the GRE and the MAT, there are no absolute score requirements. For the TOEFL, there is a required score of 550 (paper test), 213 (computer test), and 80 (internet-based test). Admission is based on a number of criteria. The School takes into consideration GPA, references, and personal statement, as well as the test scores (if your GPA is lower than 3.0).
Does the application for admission have to be typed?
No. The application for admission does not have to be typed. Please write your answers legibly or apply online.
What happens if I do not have a background in social work? Can I still be considered for the program?
The short answer is yes. It is helpful to have a background in social work or a related human service field, but this is not necessary to be considered for the program. Boston University School of Social Work has accepted people with architectural degrees, nursing backgrounds, expertise in journalism, law, etc.
I have not been a student for 20 years. Can I still succeed in this program?
We have a number of students who are returning to school after a long absence. Even though it can be challenging initially, students quickly adjust. They are often surprised to discover how valuable their previous work and life experience can be to their education.
If I am accepted to one campus, can I tranfer to another campus should my situation change?
Yes, you can transfer to another campus. Please submit your request via e-mail to Mr. Edward Greene, Director of Admissions. No phone calls will be accepted.
I have taken courses on a non-matriculating basis in another graduate social work program (accredited by the Council on Social Work Education). Will the Boston University School of Social Work accept these courses?
Yes, under the advice and approval of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. If you have taken courses on a non-matriculating basis then no more than nine (9) credits will be transferable. Please contact the Admissions Office to obtain a "Transfer Credit Approval" form. Transfer students are encouraged to read the requirements and application steps outlined in the School's online bulletin. For further information, call 617-353-3750 or e-mail: busswad@bu.edu.
I have taken courses in a graduate program other than social work. Will I be able to transfer these courses if accepted to the Boston University School of Social Work?
Yes, under the advice and approval of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. If you have taken courses on a matriculating basis in another graduate program other than social work, then no more than six (6) credits will be transferable. Credits which have been applied to a prior degree cannot be transferred. Please contact the Admissions office to obtain a "Transfer Credit Approval" form. Transfer students are encouraged to read the requirements and application steps outlined in the School's online bulletin. For further information, call 617-353-3750 or e-mail: busswad@bu.edu.
I have matriculated (am matriculating) in another graduate social work program (accredited by the Council on Social Work Education). Will I be able to transfer into the Boston University School of Social Work?
Yes, under the advice and approval of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. If you have matriculated in another social work program, then no more than 32 credits will be transferable toward the MSW degree at the Boston University School of Social Work. Please contact the Admissions office to obtain a "Transfer Student Credit Evaluation" form. Transfer students are encouraged to read the requirements and application steps outlined in the School's online bulletin. For further information, call 617-353-3765 or e-mail: busswad@bu.edu.
When is the deadline?
Applications for Fall 2009 are being accepted on a space available basis until further notice.
How much is tuition?
Current tuition and fees are as follows: Full-Time Students (enrolled for 12 to 18 credits) Tuition: $ 23,600.00 per year; George Sherman Union (GSU) Fee: $ 190.00 per year; Health Fee: $ 178.00 per year; Part-Time Students (enrolled for 1/2 to 11 1/2 credits) Tuition: $ 738.00 per credit (Charles River Campus), $495.00 per credit (southeastern Massachusetts and northeastern Massachusetts campuses); Registration Fee: $ 40.00 per semester. (Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice.)
