FAQ

Click on a question to see our answer. If this page does not answer your question, please contact Kate Falzareno.

The Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics receives roughly 600-700 applications for an entering class of 20 students per year. The number of well-qualified applicants far exceeds the number of offers we can make. Nevertheless, we strongly encourage those interested in graduate economic study to apply.

We do not require applicants to obtain a master's degree before applying to our PhD program. Please learn about the application process here.

The Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics is not able to accept visitors prior to admission. If an applicant is offered admission, they will be invited to our Campus Visit Day. If you are planning on visiting the University of Chicago, we encourage you to join a campus tour through UChicagoGRAD Admissions.

Yes, all PhD students enrolled in the Division of the Social Sciences will be fully and competitively funded for the duration of the program with funding support from the University of Chicago, external sources, or a combination of the two, regardless of citizenship or other factors. See our Financial Support page for more information.

Please read our program overview here. For a timeline of program requirements, including coursework, teaching, and research expectations, please see the Graduate Student Handbook.

Many applicants ask about our three-part Core Examination, which students take during the Summer Quarter of their first year. The examination is challenging, and the Department provides “Core Clinic” office hours and tutoring services with a “Core Mentor” to support our first-year students in their preparation. Two attempts are allowed, and the first attempt is typically held around July 4. The vast majority of first-year students fulfill the core requirement.

Please contact the Graduate Student Affairs Administrator (kfalzareno@uchicago.edu).

Classes usually start at the end of September. Your Visa will allow you to move in at the beginning of August. Math Camp and Coding Camp usually begin the week after Memorial Day. You'll receive more detailed instructions from the Graduate Student Affairs Administrator.

Please contact Joy Serletic (jserletic@uchicago.edu) and Maricela Avila (avilam@uchicago.edu) for Human Resources support.