Master of Science Degree in Real Estate

How to Apply

Step-by Step Overview

Prospective students often say "I would like to start a graduate degree, but I just don't know where to begin..."   Below you will find an informal outline to the process of preparing and submitting the required materials for application for admission to the UST MSRE program.

Our goal is for the UST MSRE admissions process to be very consultative – we appreciate your questions about the program details and encourage active communication during the admissions process. We prefer to get to know you personally, and for you to become familiar with our program and expectations, so we can both determine if the fit is right. 

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Step 1: Attend an information session or meet with an admissions professional (if you haven’t already)

This is a chance for you to see the facilities, get a feel for campus and learn more about the UST MSRE program – and to determine if a Master of Science Degree in Real Estate is the right path for you.  The presentation includes details about our student profiles, curriculum, electives, faculty, admission process and GMAT information and prep ideas. 

Find upcoming informational events.

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Step 2: Start GMAT preparation early, plan your study 

Most busy professionals don’t have a ton of time to study, which is why having adequate time set aside for GMAT prep is important. Some applicants can do it in 30 total hours, others might need 50 or more. Some can fit this in over a month while others might need two or three months to find adequate study time. The most successful GMAT takers aren’t scrambling to beat a deadline and know what to expect during the actual exam because they completed several computer-based practice tests.  Learn more about the GMAT and how to prepare.

Your GMAT scores will be sent to us electronically about 7-10 days after you sit for the exam.  We do not have a minimum required GMAT score to be considered for admission. The average for admitted students is about 560.

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Step 3: Submit your online application form first (not mandatory, but a good idea)

The application document informs the UST MSRE admission office of your intent to apply, and for which program and term, while also “opening” a file for you to properly receive and place your supporting materials (letters, transcripts, etc.) as they arrive.

An admissions advisor will act as your point of contact throughout the process and will support your effort to build a strong application file while helping you learn more about the program.  Engage them early and often!  It helps to personally know a candidate’s background, goals and motivations when a file is presented to the admissions committee.

Start an online application. 

Step 4: Request supporting materials from sources
(transcripts, letters of recommendation)

Your academic records and letters of recommendation are generated and sent by a third party, making their delivery timeline somewhat out of your control.  Transcripts are required from all institutions where you have completed undergraduate or graduate coursework.  These can often take 7-10 days from the time of the request to arrive.  It is a good idea to request them early to allow for the lag in processing and delivery time. 

Your busy supervisors, peers and references who eagerly agree to write a letter in support of your UST MSRE application often need one-three weeks to generate and send your letter, and sometimes may “forget” the task.  In the online application module, you will have the opportunity to send an email to your references offering them instructions on how to submit their letters.  You can also download this PDF form to provide the same information to them in person.  Respecting their time and busy schedules (and give them adequate warning to meet the application deadlines) will ensure your supporting materials are received in a timely manner.  They must submit their letters directly to the admissions office via email to msrealestate@stthomas.edu or by US mail.  

Download forms for letters of recommendation and transcript request form (or request transcripts directly from the registrar's office of your past undergraduate and/or graduate schools.) 

Step 5: Complete your “personal” materials (résumé and essays)

Your professional résumé gives the admissions committee increased detail on your work experience, accomplishments and background.  The essay responses you submit provide more insight into your character, motivation and career aspirations, as well as the quality and organization of your written communication.  Take some time to think them through and present them professionally.  Have a friend proofread each and provide feedback.  You may upload your résumé and essays directly to the application module .

Download the personal essay form.

Step 6: Make sure file is complete & receive decision

The online application module tracks your completion, and you will receive auto-generated emails to keep you informed of your application file status.  Please contact your admissions advisor or our office if you have any concern about the receipt of your materials, or to check the status of your application file.

We use a rolling admissions process.  Application files are reviewed individually as soon as your file is complete, and an admissions decision is usually returned within 7-10 days.  We will send you an official letter, but will also contact you personally.