Master in Professional Accounting Admissions Blog

Insider Information for Prospective Texas McCombs MPA Students

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MPA Admissions Update

Texas McCombs MPA Admissions Update

January 17, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Here is a quick Texas McCombs MPA admissions update as we settle into the new year!

  • The MPA admissions committee has been reviewing completed U.S. traditional MPA applications and all completed MPA Bridge applications, releasing decisions on a rolling basis. There is still plenty of time to apply! The final U.S. traditional and MPA Bridge application deadline is May 6.
  • The final traditional MPA international application deadline was on January 14. The application review will begin soon, and decisions will be released in approximately March. Please be sure to submit all of your supplemental application materials no later than Monday, January 27 if you would like your application to be considered. Additionally, any resume, transcript or test score updates (if any) should be submitted through the McCombs application portal as soon as possible. Applications completed after January 27 will be considered on a space-available basis.

The admissions decision will be posted on the Office of Graduate Admissions MyStatus portal, and you will receive additional correspondence from the MPA program if you are admitted.

Questions? Contact the MPA admissions team

Essay Tips

Application Tips: Preparing Your Admissions Essays

September 24, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Traditional MPA and MPA Bridge applicants,

Are you working on your Texas McCombs MPA admissions essays and need some guidance? Are you wondering, What should be the focus? How long should the essays be? Do I need videographer skills to create my video essay? Here are some tips that will help you get started:

Let us know why you’re unique!

There is no “right answer” to the written or video essay questions. MPA applicants come from a variety of academic backgrounds and have diverse professional goals… exactly what we prefer! The essays can help you stand out from the applicant crowd and provide us an opportunity to learn about your strengths, skillsets, and aspirations. Avoid cliched responses and instead provide a genuine portrayal of why you are interested in the Texas McCombs MPA program. Take a moment to reflect. How will the MPA program assist you in reaching your goals? If you are a non-accounting major, why have you decided to pursue a graduate accounting degree? What has been your journey up to this point, and what have you learned about yourself along the way? How have your experiences prepared you for success in our program and the business world? What will you contribute to the Texas McCombs MPA community?

Develop your ideas… but be concise.

Although you should focus more on content than length, essay #1 should be between 350-500 words, essay #2 should be between 250-350 words, and the video essay should be approximately one minute in length. Avoid repeating information that is readily available in other parts of the application. For example, rather than simply listing your experiences, let us know how these experiences helped you to grow personally or professionally. We want to get to know you from a perspective that cannot be achieved by reviewing resumes, transcripts, or test scores.

Written essays: Mind your writing technique.

The written essays capture your reasons for pursuing the MPA degree, career goals, preparedness for graduate school, and an example of your analytical aptitude. They also are a demonstration of your written communication skills. Avoid being too wordy, stay focused and organized, and proofread. The formatting of the essays is flexible (line spacing, margins, font), but we do appreciate an easy-to-read layout!

Instructions:

  • Upload your essays in PDF format to your admissions application.

Video essay: Show us who you are!

The video essay helps your application “come to life” and provides you with an opportunity to showcase your verbal communication skills and personality. Be professional, relax (Try not to sound like you’re reading a script. We want to see you as your peers, instructors or employers see you!), and don’t worry about fancy editing techniques. Also, please do not include a link to a photo slideshow or PowerPoint presentation. Slideshows do not allow us to actually see and hear from you, which is really what we are looking for in a video submission.

Video link instructions:

  • Upload your video essay to a video-sharing platform like YouTube or Vimeo or to a cloud storage site such as Google Drive. Provide the URL in the admissions application.
  • Do not submit a video link from TikTok. TikTok is blocked on UT Austin’s networks.
  • Review your video’s privacy settings and ensure that they are not overly restrictive. For example, YouTube videos should be “Unlisted” or “Public” rather than “Private.”
  • Make sure that your link does not expire and that you do not remove your video until you receive an admissions decision.

Optional essay: Add some clarification.

If you prefer, you can submit an optional admissions essay to address address any information that you believe your application would be incomplete without and that sheds more light on your unique potential to succeed in the MPA program and contribute to the University community and the profession.

Ready to apply? Start your traditional MPA or MPA Bridge application today!

Blog post - GMAT or GRE

Application Tips: Should You Take the GMAT or GRE Exam?

September 17, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Traditional MPA applicants:

Submitting the GMAT or GRE is optional for the Fall 2025 MPA admissions application. Applicants will not be disadvantaged in the admissions process if they do not submit test scores. However, applicants who feel that their test scores reflect their potential for success in graduate school are encouraged to submit scores for consideration. Keep in mind that the MPA Admissions Committee takes all submitted application materials into account holistically.

So should you submit GMAT or GRE test scores for your MPA application? 

It depends on the strength of the rest of your application. We provide detailed information in this blog post.

You’ve decided to take either the GMAT or GRE. Which exam should you take?

Consider these factors before you decide:

  • We don’t have a preference. The MPA admissions committee does not have a preference. Either test can demonstrate academic potential for business school.
  • Other programs may have a preference. Many graduate accounting programs started accepting the GRE in addition to the GMAT. Be sure to check the application requirements for all your programs of interest. Some programs may only accept the GMAT.
  • Are you applying to more than one master’s degree? The GRE may be the best choice for those who are applying to the Texas McCombs MPA plus another master’s degree—like economics—which may require the GRE. Taking the GRE would allow you to apply to both programs with one exam.
  • You may have a preference. If you are still trying to decide, take a practice test for each exam. You may find that you prefer one test over the other.
  • Plan ahead, regardless. Whichever exam you choose, be sure to set aside time to study. Take the test early and reserve some buffer time in case you wish to retake the exam. If you choose a retake, we will review the score report with the highest total score. Remember—it can take approximately 3-4 weeks for the official scores to be received and uploaded to your UT application.

Please note: If you report GMAT or GRE test scores or a future test date in the admissions application, we will hold on a decision until the official test scores are received from the testing agency. Please notify the MPA admissions team if your testing plans change after you submit your application.

Need additional advice?

If you have any questions related to your situation, please contact our admissions team  or schedule an admissions consultation.

FAQs MPA Bridge Applicants

FAQs: MPA Bridge Applicants

September 13, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Are you an MPA Bridge applicant with questions about our MPA Bridge admissions process? The MPA admissions team put together a list of frequently asked questions. Find answers and tips below!

What are the eligibility requirements to apply to MPA Bridge?

You must satisfy the following criteria to be eligible to apply to the MPA Bridge program for summer 2025 entry:

  • Be a current UT undergraduate student completing a non-accounting bachelor’s degree
  • Have a minimum 3.5 grade point average, both overall and in your major
  • Have senior standing (90 or more credit hours) prior to summer 2025
  • Complete the course pre-enrollment requirements before applying to MPA Bridge (ideal) or before enrolling in MPA classes (required)
  • Have an expected bachelor’s degree completion date of summer 2025, fall 2025, or spring 2026
    • If you plan to finish your bachelor’s degree in spring 2025 or sooner, apply to the traditional MPA program for fall 2025 (with a potential summer 2025 start date)
    • If you will finish your bachelor’s degree in summer 2026 through spring 2027, apply to MPA Bridge next year for summer 2026 entry

When are MPA Bridge admissions applications reviewed for a decision?

The MPA admissions committee reviews completed MPA Bridge applications on a continuous, “rolling” basis. Eligible applicants may apply anytime during the admissions cycle until the final May 6, 2025 application deadline. We encourage you to apply as soon as you have completed the majority of the pre-enrollment courses.

Should I submit my application and transcript before fall grades are available?

If you’re aiming to apply early so that you can receive an earlier admissions decision, you can submit a transcript without fall grades. (We will reach out if we need your fall grades before making a decision.) That said, we highly recommend waiting to submit your application and transcript with your fall grades if:

  • You are taking pre-enrollment courses in the fall, and/or
  • Your GPA will be improved substantially with your fall grades.

It is better to wait and submit the strongest application possible rather than overly rush to apply!

I submitted my application. When will I receive an admissions decision?

Your application will not be considered complete and reviewed for a decision until at least two faculty recommendation letters have been received. Verify the receipt of your recommendation letters in the McCombs application portal (Submitted Applications tab > Manage Recommenders). If needed, send additional requests for letters through the portal. Decisions for U.S. applications are released approximately six weeks after application completion.

Any questions we missed?

If you have still have questions regarding our admissions process, please contact us! We’re happy to help.

 

FAQs Traditional MPA International Applicants

FAQs: Traditional MPA, International Applicants

September 10, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Are you an international applicant (non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident) with questions about our traditional MPA admissions process? If so, keep reading to find answers to some frequently asked questions!

When are international admissions applications reviewed for a decision?

The MPA program has two international application deadlines for fall 2025:

  • November 1, 2024 – early deadline
  • January 14, 2025 – final deadline

When are international decisions released?

International admissions decisions are released in two rounds: one after the early November 1 deadline, and one after the final January 14 deadline. We encourage you to complete your application by November 1 if you wish to receive an early decision. Admissions decisions will be released approximately ten weeks after each deadline.

Are GMAT or GRE scores required?

Submitting GMAT or GRE scores is optional. Please refer to this admissions blog post for additional details. If you report GMAT or GRE test scores or a future test date in the admissions application, we will hold on a decision until the official test scores are received from the testing agency. Please notify the MPA admissions team if your testing plans change after you submit your application.

Do I need to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores if I studied in the U.S. or another English-only speaking country?

You are exempt from the TOEFL/IELTS requirement if you are from a qualifying country or if you hold a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. institution or an institution from a qualifying country.* However, even if you are exempt, you are welcome to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate your English proficiency. You also will have the opportunity to demonstrate your English speaking proficiency in your video essay.

*Please note that the test requirement is not waived for applicants who have earned a master’s—but not a bachelor’s—degree from an English-only speaking country. Unless you qualify for an exemption, you must submit official TOEFL or IELTS test scores.

Are all of the application materials required by the November 1 or January 14 application deadline?

If all of your application materials are not received by November 1, your application will be included in the second round of admissions in January. The online application completely closes at 11:59 p.m. CT on January 14, and you must submit the application by this deadline. The supporting materials should also be submitted by this deadline or very shortly thereafter. If certain items are still missing on January 14 (for example, recommendation letters or official test scores), be sure to submit them as soon as possible and send the MPA admissions team an email update. Applications that are completed late may be reviewed on a space-available basis after the second round of decisions have been made.

Application tip: Plan ahead! On average, it takes about 3-4 weeks for the official test scores to be sent, received, and added to an applicant’s record.

Should I wait to submit my transcript until fall grades are posted?

If you are applying by the final January 14 deadline, you should upload a transcript by this deadline, even if your fall grades are not available. Any transcript  updates can be submitted through the McCombs application portal as soon as the new grades are available. We cannot guarantee that updates will be included in your application review, as it will depend on when you submit the updated materials and where your application is in the review process with the admissions committee.

Do I need to submit a foreign credential evaluation from WES or another organization?

You do not need to submit a foreign credential evaluation if you studied outside of the U.S. However, if your transcript is written in a language other than English, you must upload an official English translation with the original transcript.

Do I need to submit financial documentation with my application?

The financial information is used for immigration document processing, not for admissions purposes. If you gain admission to the MPA program, the International Office will require the financial documentation before issuing the Form I-20 or Form DS-2019.

 

FAQs Traditional MPA U.S. Applicants

FAQs: Traditional MPA, U.S. Applicants

September 6, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Are you a U.S. applicant with questions about our traditional MPA admissions process? The MPA admissions team put together a list of frequently asked questions. Find application answers and tips below!

When are U.S. admissions applications reviewed for a decision?

The MPA program has two U.S. application deadlines for fall 2025:

  • November 1, 2024 – early deadline
  • May 6, 2025 – final deadline

The MPA admissions committee reviews completed U.S. applications on a continuous, “rolling” basis between these deadlines. You may apply anytime during the admissions cycle, although we encourage you to apply earlier in the admissions cycle for scholarship consideration, as less funding is available later in the cycle.

When will I receive an admissions decision?

Decisions for U.S. applications are released after November 1 and approximately six weeks after application completion.

What if all my application materials aren’t ready by the November1 early deadline?

Although we encourage you to apply earlier in the admissions cycle when possible, if you need additional time to prepare your application materials (to wait for fall grades or study for the GMAT or GRE, for example), be sure to take your time and submit the strongest application possible.

Are GMAT or GRE scores required?

Submitting GMAT or GRE scores is completely optional. Please review this admissions blog post for additional details. If you report GMAT or GRE test scores or a future test date in the admissions application, we will hold on a decision until the official test scores are received from the testing agency. Please notify the MPA admissions team if your testing plans change after you submit your application.

Should I submit my transcript by November 1 or wait for my fall grades to post?

If you’re aiming for the November 1 deadline, we typically recommend submitting a transcript without fall grades. We will reach out if we need your fall grades before making a decision. That said, you might wait and submit your transcript with your fall grades if:

  • You’re a non-accounting major taking any of the pre-enrollment courses in the fall.
  • You’re an accounting major enrolled in several upper-level accounting classes in the fall.
  • Your upper-level GPA will be improved substantially with your fall grades.

When are departmental scholarships awarded?

We award departmental scholarships throughout the admissions cycle, although fewer scholarships are available towards the end of the cycle. Therefore, it is to your advantage to apply as early as possible.

What if I get an offer from another university, but I’m waiting to hear from UT?

If you receive an offer from another university and need to respond before you receive our decision, send us the name of the university and the admission response deadline. Although we cannot guarantee an earlier admission decision, we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Any questions we missed?

If you have still have questions regarding our admissions process, please contact us! We’re happy to help.

 

MPA info session blog post

REGISTER: Join the September 26 MPA Information Session!

September 18, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Join our upcoming virtual information session to learn more about the Master in Professional Accounting program! You’ll hear about the MPA admissions process and how to make your application stand out, details about the MPA curriculum, employment recruiting and career outcomes, and life in Austin.

REGISTER: WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 – 5:00 PM CT

We look forward to meeting you soon!

Jasmin Blas-Mendieta

Jasmin Blas-Mendieta, MPA Senior Recruiting and Admissions Officer.

 

Register for the Upcoming MPA Faculty Panel

October 25, 2021 / / 0 Comments

Discover more about earning your Master in Professional Accounting degree by meeting the faculty who teach in the program at our upcoming webinar on Thursday, October 28 from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. CT.

Join us at the Master in Professional Accounting (MPA) Faculty Panel to meet Professors Gretchen Charrier, Steve Goodson, Donna Johnston-Blair, and John McInnis. You’ll hear about their backgrounds and why accounting is such an important facet of business, as well as get your questions answered on the MPA curriculum, the classes they teach, and what life is like in the program. The panel will be facilitated by Program Director Kristina Zvinakis.

We hope to see you there!

Thursday, October 28 from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. CT – REGISTER

Gretchen CharrierGRETCHEN CHARRIER
Fall 2021 Class: Governmental Accounting

Gretchen earned her bachelor’s in accounting at the University of Kentucky and is an alum of our very own MPA program here at The University of Texas at Austin. Prior to pursuing her MPA degree, Gretchen worked with KPMG and PwC. She has been teaching at the McCombs School of Business since 1997.

 

Stephen GoodsonSTEVE GOODSON
Fall 2021 Class: Internal Auditing and Control

Steve has worked as audit and quality assurance staff and as a consultant for companies ranging from the Texas Department of Public Safety to the National Football League. Before coming to Texas McCombs, he was the Chief Internal Auditor for the University of North Texas and has been teaching in the MPA program since 2016.

 

Donna Johnston-BlairDONNA JOHNSTON-BLAIR
Spring 2022 Classes: Tax Practicum & Taxation of Entities

Donna earned her MBA from the University of Toronto and is CPA certified in California, Colorado, and Texas. After working in public accounting as a tax manager, she started her own tax consulting firm and began teaching at universities. Donna has been with Texas McCombs since 2013 teaching financial, managerial, and tax accounting.

 

John McInnisJOHN McINNIS
Fall 2021 Class: Financial Accounting Standards and Analysis II

After earning his bachelor’s and master’s from The University of Texas at Austin, John received his PhD from the University of Iowa. He has been teaching financial accounting in the MPA program since 2008 and has published articles in top scholarly journals including The Accounting Review, Journal of Finance, Management Science, and more.

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