FAQ

1. When will application be open?

2. Could I update documents later after uploading my documents to online application system?

If it’s within the application period, applicants can return to the application portal and upload other documents under “Upload any other documents” section.  

Additional supporting documents will not be accepted after the application period is closed.

3. Do you accept IELTS Indicator, IELTS UKVI and TOEFL iBT Home Edition test, GMAT/GRE online test for application?

Kindly refer to this webpage https://www.ntu.edu.sg/admissions/graduate/cwadmissionguide for IELTS/TOEFL acceptance guideline.

GMAT / GRE is not required.

4. Can I be exempted from the IELTS/TOEFL requirement?

IELTS/TOEFL is required for applicants from non-English speaking countries, unless they accomplished degree on campus in native English speaking countries.  Applicants with joint degrees or transferred from a non-English speaking country to an English speaking country to get a degree, there is no exemption, IELTS/TOEFL is still required.

Minimum IELTS: 6.5

Minimum TOEFL: 85

5. If I apply and am accepted this year, can I defer acceptance to next year?

Generally, we do not allow deferment. Applicants are encouraged to consider carefully before applying.

6. May I ask why I was not accepted into the MSc in Applied Economics (MSAE)?

We are unable to provide reason(s) of non-acceptance because of the high volume of applications received and it is very competitive.

7. Is personal statement/reference letter/CV/interviews required?

Personal statement/reference letter/CV/interviews are NOT REQUIRED.

However, if you wish to submit them, you can upload them into the application portal under “Upload any other documents” section.

8. Do I need to post application package including IELTS or TOEFL reports to your office?

All supporting documents (in PDF format) are to be uploaded ONLINE during the online application. Applicants DO NOT need to send the hard copies of the supporting documents (application package) to us via post.

9. I have received the conditional offer and paid the confirmation deposit. What are the next steps?

Once you received the pdf copy of official receipt from One Stop @SAC <[email protected]>, please forward it to [email protected] for verification and record.

Office of Admissions (OA) will follow up with the official offer letter by May for August Intake and September for November Intake.

10. How will I be contacted regarding my application?

 We will correspond with you primarily using e-mail during the application process to convey messages. Hence, it is very important that you provide a valid and correct e-mail address and maintain your e-mail account regularly. The University will not be responsible for undeliverable e-mails and their consequences.

Due to the large number of applicants seeking admission, we are sorry we will not be able to attend to enquiries on the status of applications or receipt of documents.

11. Can I apply for graduate housing in NTU if I am accepted for the programme?

Full-time students can apply for graduate housing. For details, please refer to: https://www.ntu.edu.sg/life-at-ntu/accommodation/graduate-housing.  In view of limited places on campus, please note that submitting an application does not guarantee a place. Students are strongly advised to arrange for off-campus housing for your accommodation needs before arrival in Singapore.

12. Does the programme require a service obligation?

There is no service obligation for this programme.

13. Do you offer part-time programme?

No, it is a full-time programme.

14. What supporting documents are required to be uploaded online?

Please ensure that your supporting documents (in PDF format) are clear and legible, and named according to the below sequence.  Any applications with incomplete supporting documents may result in delay. 

15. Who can I approach if I encountered issues with the application portal?

Please check through your application form to ensure that you have completed all sections in English.  If you require further assistance, you can log a ticket using the Service Desk Form.

16. I do not have a degree in Economics. Can I apply for the programme?

Yes, you may submit your application and you will be considered together with the strength of the respective cohort.

17. What can I expect from the admission process?

• A MSAE E-Conditional Offer will be emailed to applicants who have been selected for admission.
• A non-refundable confirmation deposit of S$15,000/- is required.
• The NTU official offer will be sent at a later date. Please check your email regularly.
• Upon accepting the NTU official offer, you will be required to set up your NTU email account. Please ensure that you follow the procedure closely as future correspondences will be done through this official student email account.
• Students will have to complete your online matriculation at the stipulated date. Please refer to: (https://www.ntu.edu.sg/admissions/matriculation#Content_C006_Col01).
• Upon successful matriculation, a Graduate Student link (GSLINK) account will be issued to you for course registration and accessing online learning materials prior to course commencement.

18. Can I come down to the MSAE office to ask for assistance or further details?

We encourage applicants to explore our website at https://www.ntu.edu.sg/sss/graduate-education/msc-in-applied-economics for comprehensive details about the MSAE program. This resource provides a comprehensive overview of the program's content and structure and may address many of your questions. If you require additional assistance, please feel free to reach out to us via email at [email protected].

1. What is the programme structure of MSc in Applied Economics (MSAE)?

The programme requires every student to earn a total of 30 academic units (AUs) to graduate.

2. Can I add or drop courses?

Students can do so during the add/drop period which will close 1 or 2 weeks after the programme commencement.

 3. What is a trimester?

The programme runs on a trimester basis. Each academic year is made up of 3 trimesters.  For details on academic calendar, please refer to https://www.ntu.edu.sg/admissions/matriculation/academic-calendars.

 4. What are the minimum and maximum duration for the completion of the programme?

The candidature period for Full-time students:

• Minimum of 3 trimesters (1 year) or a maximum of 6 trimesters (2 years)

5. What is the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) to be maintained as a student of MSc in Applied Economics (MSAE)?

 A Masters candidate’s Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) should not fall below 2.50 for two consecutive trimesters. A student will be issued an Academic Warning (AW) if the GPA falls below 2.50 for any given trimester.

 A student will be issued an Academic Termination (FO) if the CGPA falls below 2.50 for two consecutive trimesters. A letter of termination will be issued.

6.What is the frequency and duration of classes?

Classes are scheduled on weekdays and/or on Saturdays.  Your class schedule will be dependent on the courses that you have selected.

 7. Where are classes and exams held?

Classes and exams will be conducted in-person (face to face) at the NTU main campus.  There is no remote e-learning option.

 8. What is the mode of assessment?

This is a coursework programme. The lecturer of each course will design the assessment components to maximise the learning experience of the students. The assessment could consist of a combination of several components including quizzes, peer assessment, assignments, individual or group projects and tests etc.

9. What is the requirement for class attendance?

Class attendance is compulsory. A minimum of 85% attendance is required for the completion of the course. Students must provide proof of absence if he/she is unable to attend the class.

10. Is the programme conducted in English or Mandarin?

All courses are conducted in English.

11. When will the degree be conferred?

For graduate students who have met graduation requirements, the degrees are conferred at the end of every month.

For more information, please refer to this link:  https://www.ntu.edu.sg/education/academic-services/graduation-matters

*Please note the conferment process may take up to 2 months.

12. Is there an internship included in the MSAE programme?

MSAE is a 1-year full-time programme that does not include a credit-bearing internship. Students are not required to complete an internship as part of the program.

13. Can Master's students apply for internships?

MSAE students are NOT eligible to apply for the Postgraduate Internship Programme (more information can be found here).

14. What preparatory courses are required for the MSAE programme?

Preparatory courses in Maths and Statistics are required to strengthen your skills in these areas.

15. How and when will the preparatory courses be conducted?

The courses will be conducted online via NTULearn during the trimester.

16. What are the potential career paths can I pursue after completing my degree?

a. Economic Analysis and Research

• Government Agencies: Work with institutions like central banks, treasury departments, and regulatory agencies to develop policies and conduct economic research.
• Think Tanks and Research Institutes: Engage in policy research and economic analysis on various social, economic, and political issues.

b. Financial Services

• Investment Banking: Analyze economic trends to advise clients on mergers, acquisitions, and investments.
• Asset Management: Manage investment portfolios, conduct market analysis, and develop investment strategies.
• Risk Management: Assess financial risks and develop strategies to mitigate them in banking and insurance sectors.

c. Consulting

• Economic Consulting Firms: Provide economic analysis and advice to businesses, governments, and non-profits on various economic issues.
• Management Consulting: Help organizations improve their efficiency, profitability, and market position by leveraging economic insights.

d. Data Science and Analytics

• Corporate Sector: Analyze large datasets to provide actionable insights for marketing, operations, and strategic decision-making.
• Tech Industry: Work with tech companies to analyze user data, market trends, and economic impacts of technology.

e. Public Policy and International Development

• International Organizations: Work with the United Nations, World Bank, IMF, or other international bodies to develop and implement economic policies in developing countries.
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Focus on economic development, poverty reduction, and sustainability projects.

f. Academia and Education

• Teaching and Research: Pursue a PhD and embark on a career in academia, teaching economics, and conducting advanced research.
• Educational Institutions: Develop curricula, conduct educational research, and contribute to policy development in educational economics.

g. Corporate Sector

• Business Strategy: Use economic analysis to help businesses develop strategies, optimize operations, and improve competitiveness.
• Market Research: Conduct market analysis and consumer behavior studies to inform product development and marketing strategies.

h. Regulatory and Compliance

• Regulatory Bodies: Work with organizations that regulate industries, such as telecommunications, energy, and finance, to ensure compliance with economic policies and regulations.
• Compliance Departments: Ensure that businesses comply with economic laws and regulations, and develop internal policies to meet these standards.

Each of these paths leverages the analytical, quantitative, and critical thinking skills developed during an MSc in Applied Economics, providing a solid foundation for a variety of impactful and lucrative careers.

1. Does the programme provide any financial assistance?

The MSc in Applied Economics (MSAE) is a self-funded programme. All applicants are expected to be financially capable of providing for themselves for the duration of their candidature.

However, awards may be offered to suitably qualified students. For more information, please refer to the Fees & Awards section.

2. When am I required to make fee payment?

Students must be prepared to fund their own course of study.  A non-refundable confirmation deposit of S$15,000/- is required upon accepting the conditional offer. This confirmation deposit will be used to offset the first trimester’s tuition fee payment.  Thereafter, fees will be billed prior to the start of Trimester 2 and Trimester 3.

How to apply Student Pass (STP)?

Once you have been provided with an official offer and upon offer acceptance, the Office of Admissions (OA) will assist you in your application for the Student Pass (STP).

For details, please refer to: 

• https://www.ntu.edu.sg/admissions/graduate/gfreshmenguide/immigration-for-international-students
• https://www.ica.gov.sg/reside/STP/apply