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Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I apply for graduate study in the Department of Statistics?
  Students seeking admission to graduate study in statistics at UI are requested to submit transcripts from undergraduate studies and three letters of recommendation along with a statement of purpose and a resumé. All application materials should be sent to Graduate Admissions in the College of Graduate Studies. Completed application files are then sent from Graduate Admissions to the Department of Statistics for consideration.
• What are the prerequisites for the Statistics program?
  All students who wish to do graduate work in statistics should have a background in quantitative methods. Specific prerequisites include
  • Three semesters of calculus
  • Six hours of statistics, including Stat 401: Statistical Analysis, or its equivalent
  • One computer programming course or demonstrated ability to write programs
• Does the Department offer a Ph.D. in Statistics?
  No.  We offer only the M.S. in Statistics.  Here is one web site that may help you identify schools offering the Ph.D. in Statistics: http://www.petersons.com/GradChannel/code/search.asp?sponsor=1.  On this site you can conduct a search for schools offering a Ph.D. in Statistics.
• Can I get a Teaching Assistantship (TA)?
  Possibly.  There are a very limited number of TA positions available in the Department.  Competition is strong.  Most positions become available in the Fall but we do occasionally have an opening in the Spring.
• Do you require a special form for the three letters of recommendation?
  No.  There is no special recommendation form.
• Is the TOEFL required?
  The TOEFL is required of international students from non-English speaking countries.  The TOEFL requirement is waived for students with a degree from an English-speaking university.
• What TOEFL score is required?
  The minimum TOEFL scores are 193 (computer based test) or 525 (paper test) or 70 (internet based test).
• Is the GRE required?
  No.  Our program does not required the GRE.
• Are my test scores too old?
  Graduate Admissions insists that required test scores be no more that 2 years old.
• I can't afford the application fee.  Can the fee be waived?  Will the Statistics Department pay my application fee?
  No.  The application fee is required and will not be waived.  The Statistics Department will not pay your application fee because it would be unfair to all applicants to pay the fee for one student.