Insider Tips

We know applying to graduate school can feel intimidating, so we've put together this list to help you navigate the application process. 

Online Application

• You can start our online application HERE.
• All application materials matter! One piece of your application is NOT more important than another. We consider applications in their entirety.
• We’re looking for students with strong academic and analytical aptitude, leadership potential and a variety of extracurricular involvement.
• Don’t worry about repeating information on your resume that is also somewhere else in your application package.
• It works well to complete the online application while you’re working on other aspects of the application, such as your statement of purpose, resume, or scholarship essay.

Resume

• Keep it short. Your uploaded resume should be one page in length and in the PDF format.
• The resume should highlight your academic, extracurricular and professional achievements.
• There are many free resources available online to help you create a resume that is in the correct format and that highlights your strengths.

Statement of Purpose Essay

• The essay prompt is: “Describe your short-term and long-term career goals, and how the MAcc will help you achieve those goals. Include in your discussion: Where do you see yourself in one, five and 10 years after completing the MAcc, and why are you interested in earning a MAcc degree from Rice? (Maximum 750 words).”
• Your essay should be well developed and thought out. Give yourself enough time to write, review and edit. It’s a good idea to have a friend proof your work (but make sure the essay remains wholly your own!).
• Be sure to directly address the essay question being asked of you!
• Provide a cohesive story that tells us why you're seeking a graduate accounting degree and why Rice's program is a good fit for you.
• Make sure you stick to the word limit. Be clear and concise.

Transcripts

• Don’t worry about sending us official transcripts during the application process. We will only need them once you’re admitted into our program (yay!). You can upload scans of your transcripts directly into your online application.
• It is not necessary to submit transcripts from summer coursework or study abroad if those classes were not required for your degree, they total fewer than nine credit hours, and completion of those courses is already reflected on your main transcript.

Professional References

• We require the names of two professional references. Select two people who, based on their relationship with you, can vouch for your potential to succeed in an intensive graduate accounting program and in a subsequent professional business career.
• Use your best judgment in selecting references; if you feel it necessary, you may also include a note in your application explaining your choice.
• We prefer that at least one of your evaluators be a professor who taught a class you completed. Many applicants choose one of their accounting professors. Personal friends, relatives, or family acquaintances are not appropriate people to serve as a reference. 
• A good way to ask? “Would you be willing to be a professional reference for my Rice Master of Accounting (MAcc) application?”
• You provide the name, email address, title, and relationship to this person in your application for both references. 
• References will be contacted should the Admissions Committee judge it helpful to evaluate your candidacy to the program.
• Submit your application early so that the committee has plenty of time to contact your references if needed.
• Need to change a professional reference after you’ve submitted? Just reach out to us and let us know.

Additional Information Section

• If you feel there is anything additional that we should know, put it here.
• Things such as academic issues, gaps in your resume, or changes in undergrad institutions are usually provided here.

Test Scores

• A GMAT or GRE score is OPTIONAL.
• You are still welcome to provide a GMAT or GRE test score if you believe it will help demonstrate your aptitude to the Rice MAcc Admissions Committee. A strong test score may also increase your chances for a merit-based scholarship award.
• We have no preference between which test you choose to take, though most applicants, if they include a score, choose to take the GMAT.
• You are able to submit unofficial score reports during the application process. We will not need your official scores until you are admitted into the program.
• Take the test early and give yourself time to retake, if necessary.
• If you’ve taken the GMAT/GRE more than once, the MAcc Admissions Committee will consider your highest score, even if it’s not your most recent score. So, don’t be afraid to re-take your test if you think you can improve your score.

Have questions? Reach out to us at RiceMAcc@rice.edu or review our FAQ page.

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