Graduate Program

Application Process

Self Managed Applications checklist
(Submit all materials, by postal mail, in ONE packet)

  1. Iowa State University Graduate College Application Form.
    • The form can be found at http://www.grad-college.iastate.edu/forms/forms.html If you apply online, the fee must be paid by credit card at the time of application. Note: if you apply online, you must include a copy of the application form with your other materials being sent to the department.
  2. Official transcripts of ALL previous undergraduate and graduate coursework.
    • You must arrange for official transcripts to be sent to the address below, not the University Admissions Office as stated in step 8 of the application.   In addition, you should include a photocopy of each transcript with the materials that you send.
  3. GRE Scores
    • Information on the GRE can be found at http://www.gre.org/ttindex.html
    • You must request that official scores be sent to Iowa State University. 
      • Institution Code: Iowa State University R6306
      • GRE Department Code: Econ 1801 (social sciences) or Ag Econ 0101 (natural sciences)
    • In addition, you should submit a copy of your scores with your application materials.
  4. TOEFL Scores
    • The TOEFL exam is required of applicants whose native language is not English, unless the applicant has a bachelor's or master's degree from a university in the United States or in a country in which the only official language is English.
    • Information on the TOEFL can be found at http://www.toefl.org
    • You must request that official scores be sent to Iowa State University.
      • Institution Code: Iowa State University R6306
      • TOEFL Department Code: 84
    • In addition, you should submit a copy of your scores with your application materials.
  5. Three letters of recommendation.
    • The Graduate College's online application procedure allows letter writers to submit their recommendations online.
    • Or, you may print the form (PDF) and have the recommendations signed and sent directly to the department, or provide the letter in a sealed envelope for inclusion in the packet of materials you will send.
  6. Statement of Purpose (1-2 pages). Items to include:
    • What led you to choose economics or agricultural economics as a field of study?
    • How has your background prepared you for graduate study in economics?
    • What are your career plans?
    • For Ph.D. applicants:  What are your choices of fields of specialization?
      • Agricultural Economics
      • Environmental and Resource Economics
      • Financial Economics
      • Human Resources
      • Industrial Organization
      • International Economics
      • Macroeconomics

All application materials must be submitted in ONE packet to:

Graduate Studies Office
Department of Economics
260 Heady Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1070

Questions? Email grad@econ.iastate.edu or call 1-515-294-2702.