Changing from Master's to PhD Program
Students in the MS degree program who wish to enter the PhD program may apply either through the regular admission process or through the MS to PhD Transfer Program. For the transfer program, the department is looking for students who are both theoretically well prepared and actively engaged in research.
Students considering a possible transfer path would typically start to prepare prior to their first semester of the MS program. A STAT 410 waiver exam is provided for incoming students. The exam includes some additional questions to assess more advanced preparation.
Students scoring high enough on the exam and additional advanced questions can discuss with their advisor and the PhD program director about prospects for potential transfer and coursework recommendations given their current preparation. It is always in the student’s best interest to discuss appropriate course selection with their advisor.
Students who are prepared for PhD qualifying exam courses may be suitable for a PhD transfer path. Other students who are interested in a future PhD are recommended to prepare for the regular application process. Completion of qualifying exam classes with high grades can be beneficial to future chances of PhD admissions even if they do not pursue a transfer application or are not accepted for transfer.
Students who meet the eligibility requirements listed below may submit their application in mid to late May, within three days after spring final grades are available. Applications will be reviewed by the PhD Admission Committee. A recommendation will then be made for the student to take the qualifying exam (typically in June). If the student passes the exam, the committee will make the final decision in July regarding approval of the transfer.
Eligibility Requirements
- An overall cumulative GPA of 3.85 or higher across the entirety of the University of Illinois MS study, including the semester prior to applying.
- Successful completion of at least four courses from the following list, each with a grade of A or higher: STAT 527, STAT 528, STAT 511, STAT 575, STAT 553.
- Must be a current MS student at the time of applying. Students who graduate in May prior to the transfer application period are ineligible and should instead apply to the PhD program through the traditional application system.
In addition, strong evidence of advanced statistical research is preferred. To demonstrate research experience and/or potential, applicants may submit a reference letter that clearly describes their contribution or potential.
There is no application fee for the MS to PhD Transfer Program. Application materials submitted with the original MS application will be used in the evaluation process, though applicants are permitted to supply additional or updated materials at the time of transfer application. Applications should be submitted to stat-admissions@illinois.edu
Additional Notes
- MS students who will graduate from their MS program prior to the fall semester and wish to be considered for the PhD program should apply through the regular fall admission process (December deadline in the preceding year).
- Students who take the qualifying exam through the transfer program but either do not pass or are not approved for transfer can still apply to the regular fall admission.