iMSM Frequently Asked Questions
Will my degree say 'online'?
No, it will say Master of Science in Management from Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana.
What is the time commitment per week?
Generally, you will spend 10-15 hours per classes, per week. The course load is flexible – you can take one, two, or even zero class per semester depending on your capacity.
Should I apply to the iMSM or the iMBA program?
The iMBA offers a combination of practical business management mastery and theoretical knowledge typically over the course of 2-3 years. The average age of an iMBA student is 37 with an average of 11 years work experience. If you are in your career and desire a program that can be completed in one year, the iMSM will help you accelerate your career by providing a foundation of fundamental business management skills.
Admissions FAQs
What are the requirements for admission?
The requirements are detailed on the admission requirements page.
Do I have to take the GMAT or GRE to apply?
No, a GMAT/GRE score is not required for admittance.
Do I need a bachelor’s degree in business to earn an iMSM?
No, this degree is open to any bachelor’s degree.
What if I don’t meet the minimum academic performance requirements?
If you feel your profile may not be strong enough to gain direct admission to the iMSM degree program, Gies offers a unique pathway called the Performance-based Admission Track.
If admitted to the PAT, you will take a set of three pre-determined iMSM courses, and upon successful completion (cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better including a B or higher in at least two of the three courses) you will be automatically admitted to the iMSM program as a degree-seeking student for the following term.
Are letters of recommendation required?
Yes, you will need three letters of recommendation. We strongly recommend that your references come from individuals who know you in a professional setting and can speak to your leadership abilities and to your commitment to succeed in a rigorous program.
If you run into any delays in getting recommendations, we encourage you to submit your application anyway. We can begin initial review of your application once it is received.
Can somebody who is not a US citizen or permanent resident apply?
Yes, we welcome applicants from all over the world. In fact, more than 30 countries are represented in the iMSM program. Please note that we cannot sponsor your visa for a stay in the United States.
Can the application fee be waived?
In some cases, a fee waiver is available. The criteria for a waiver are specified in the fee waiver section of the application. Please note that international applicants are generally not eligible for a fee waiver.
Do I need to do an interview?
Interviews are required under some circumstances. You will be notified if the admissions team would like to interview you.
Do I need to take TOEFL or IELTS to apply?
Applicants from countries other than the United States must submit an official TOEFL or IELTS, except in the following situations:
If you have completed two years of post-secondary, full-time study:
- In a country where English is the primary language;
- At an institution where English is the primary medium of instruction; and
- Within five years of the intended term of enrollment
If you have been awarded an advanced degree:
- In a country where English is the primary language;
- At an institution where English is the primary language of instruction; and
- Within five years of the intended term of enrollment
If you have current professional work experience in a country in which English is the primary language, and you are offered a waiver based on an interview with us as part of the application process.
To see if you may qualify for an academic-based exemption, check to see if the country where you attended university appears on the exempt countries list.
When can I apply for admission?
The iMSM program accepts applications at multiple times throughout the year. Please check the admissions page for upcoming application deadlines.
Tuition FAQs
What are the tuition and fees for the iMSM degree?
When you register and take an iMSM course for the Fall 2023 - Summer 2024 Academic Year, you will pay the University of Illinois a tuition of $332 per credit hour effective Fall 2023. This would make a 4-credit hour course $1,328 and a 2-credit hour course $664.
Estimated Expenses for 2023 - 2024 Academic Year:
- Credit hours required: 36
- Cost per credit hour: $332
- Total tuition: $11,952*
The iMSM program is an approved cost-recovery and self-supporting program. Students in such programs are not eligible to receive tuition and fee waivers except statutory waivers.
*Annual inflation rate adjustments to tuition possible. Additional costs for case packets may be incurred. Student participation in immersion, alumni, and networking events are not included.
Will I be required to purchase textbooks and other teaching materials?
Most learning materials are included in the cost of tuition. Occasionally, you will need to purchase a text book or case study. If so, this will be indicated in the course syllabus.
Does the program offer fellowships or financial aid?
The iMSM program currently offers limited financial aid.
Domestic students may be eligible for federal financial aid. Many of our students have had success securing funding through a third party or through their employer.
Please refer to the Office of Student Financial Aid for more information.
How will I be billed for tuition payments?
You will be assessed tuition by the University of Illinois and receive a bill for tuition from the University. Please refer to the University Bursar page for information regarding your options for tuition payment.
What if I cannot pay my tuition fee in one single payment?
The University of Illinois offers payment plan options. Please refer the University Bursar page for more information.
Coursework FAQs
How long does it take to complete the iMSM? The iMBA?
Students can complete the 36-credit-hour iMSM in as little as a year. However, the flexibility of the degree allows learners to self-pace and take up to 24 months. The iMBA is a two-year, 72-credit-hour program.
What career options will I have with this degree?
By combining business management knowledge with a degree in the arts and humanities, social sciences, and other non-business majors, you can achieve greater earning power and gain a competitive advantage. Career opportunities include management, consulting, analytics, entrepreneurship, and other high-demand jobs.
Will I have to come to campus at any point for this degree?
No. This is a 100% online management degree. However, we do offer immersion, meetups, and company visits around the world that you are welcome to join.
