Apply to the Masters in Statistics
Begin your path toward mastering data, probability, and inference at one of the world’s leading centers of statistical research and education. Our rigorous #3 ranked MS in Statistics program prepares you for both academic and professional success across a wide range of industries. Explore the master’s in statistics admission requirements and start your application today.
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Master’s in Statistics Admission Requirements
UChicago’s MS in Statistics welcomes applicants with strong quantitative backgrounds and a passion for analytical problem-solving. Admission is highly selective and designed to identify students ready to excel in a challenging academic environment. In addition to meeting all master's in statistics prerequisites, a comprehensive list of the statistics master’s requirements is below:
To apply, you’ll need:
- Completed Online Application – Submit through the University of Chicago’s Division of the Physical Sciences application portal.
- Transcripts – From all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation – Three letters from academic or professional references familiar with your quantitative abilities.
- Statement of Purpose – Describe your academic interests, professional goals, and motivation for pursuing the MS in Statistics.
- Resume or CV – Highlight relevant coursework, research, or work experience.
- GRE Scores (Optional) – Not required, but may be submitted to strengthen your application.
- TOEFL or IELTS test scores – if needed to meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement
- Fee – There is non-refundable $90 fee to apply. Fee waiver eligibility and criteria.
Master's in Statistics Prerequisites
Because the UChicago program is mathematically rigorous, applicants should demonstrate preparation through prior coursework in:
- Calculus and Linear Algebra
- Probability and Mathematical Statistics
- Real Analysis (recommended)
- Programming or Computational Experience (recommended)
Students from diverse academic backgrounds—mathematics, computer science, economics, physics, engineering, and related disciplines—are encouraged to apply if they meet these statistics master’s requirements.
Tip: Competitive applicants often not only meet the master’s in statistics admission requirements but have also completed advanced undergraduate or introductory graduate-level statistics or data analysis courses before applying.
How To Apply
Our admissions process is designed to evaluate both your quantitative foundation and your potential for growth in the field of statistics.
- STEP 1: Complete the online application and upload required materials, including your statement of purpose and references.
- STEP 2: Pay the application fee or request a waiver (if eligible) and explore funding options.
- STEP 3: Track your application status through the University’s portal.
Application Deadlines and Process
- Final Deadline: January 15, 2026
- The deadline for 2027-2028 applicants will be available this summer.
You will receive an email when your decision is available. To view your decision, log in to your online application.
If you are a current student, we encourage you to provide an updated transcript whenever your autumn grades are available. You may upload updated transcripts through your “Application Status” page, even after the application deadline. When in doubt, use the “Miscellaneous” material type when uploading new materials.
MS in Statistics vs. PhD in Statistics
| MS in Statistics | PhD in Statistics | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Professional training and/or PhD preparation, not centered on independent research | Lead independent research in academia, government, or industry
|
| Typical Pathway | Students come from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds and professional backgrounds | Often enter directly from college; MS not required first |
| GRE Expectations | Strong record; GRE General strongly recommended; Math Subject Test not required | Strong record; GRE General + Math Subject Test expected |
| Math Preparation | Calc (through Jacobians/multivariate integrals), linear/matrix algebra, 2 years probability & statistics | MS prep plus advanced math (e.g., real/complex analysis) and/or CS/econ/natural sciences |
| Funding | All applicants are automatically considered for merit-based partial tuition scholarships. MS students also utilize other sources of funding such as grants, fellowships, government scholarships, or student loans | Full tuition scholarship, coverage of required fees, stipend and/or assistantship funding |
| Cohort Size | Roughly 30–40 students/year | Roughly 8–10 students/year |
| Career Outcomes | ⅓–½ of students go on to doctoral programs in applied/quant fields (stats, econ, finance, business, etc.); the remainder go on to work in industry and/or think tanks/labs/etc. | PhD research leading to academic or research-intensive careers |
Tip: If you are unsure about a PhD or about your competitiveness, apply to the PhD and ask to be considered for the MS if not admitted.
International Applicants
International students are a vital part of our intellectual community. In addition to meeting all standard statistics master’s requirements, applicants must provide:
- Official academic transcripts in English
- Proof of English language proficiency
The University’s Office of International Affairs offers resources and guidance to help you navigate the student visa process and prepare for your studies in Chicago.
Pursue Your Specialized MS in Statistics
Students in the master's program may choose an area of specialization such as biostatistics, statistical genetics, statistical finance, environmental statistics, computational neuroscience, machine learning, pattern recognition, scientific computation, survey methodology, and more. In your Candidate Statement you may indicate what areas of specification you are interested in. The master’s in statistics admission requirements and master's in statistics prerequisites are the same regardless of your specialization interest.
Explore More Statistics MS Admission FAQs
Contact Us
For more information on the master’s in statistics admission requirements, Please email us at admissions@statistics.uchicago.edu.