How to Apply

 
 

Requirements for Admissions

  • Transcripts demonstrating successful completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with a cumulative grade average of B or better.
  • Submission of a professional statement that demonstrates your rationale for pursuing an MSW, why the Brown School is a good fit with your goals, potential for leadership, professional or volunteer experience, and analytical and communications skills.
  • Completion of an analytical essay that describes a major social problem of concern to you. Discuss key factors or issues that must be understood before solutions can be developed to address or alleviate the problem.  Also discuss opportunities and challenges likely to surface in seeking a solution.
  • A comprehensive resume.
  • Three letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic colleagues.
  • A non-refundable application fee of $60, or $40 if you apply online.

Applicants to our MSW program can enter in the fall semester. Our admissions process is rolling and we do not have an application deadline. We suggest that you complete all application materials by the deadlines below to ensure that you receive priority consideration for scholarships.

Priority deadlines for scholarships:

  • January 1 for fall early decisions
  • March 1 for all other fall decisions



We will review your application once we receive your complete application, including all letters of recommendation and transcripts. Generally, our review takes six to eight weeks.

If you are an international student, transfer student, or Washington University undergraduate, please read the sections below for more information.

 

International Students

 
 

We welcome applications from international students. The application process for international students is the same.

The MSW program requires competency in the English language. If English is not your native language, you must demonstrate proficiency by a score of 90 IBT or above on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL), administered by the Educational Testing Service.

Please visit our International Students Admissions section for additional information about costs and financial services available to international students.

Students with Advanced Standing

 
 

If you have a BSW from a social work school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, you are automatically eligible and considered for advanced standing, allowing you to complete your MSW in 16 months.

Transfer Students

 
 

We welcome applications from students wishing to transfer to the Brown School.

We will grant up to 30 credit hours for previous graduate level social work courses completed at a CSWE accredited institution. A maximum of 9 credits may be transferred for graduate courses completed in disciplines related to social work.

Washington University Undergraduates

 
 

Undergraduate students currently attending Washington University may be eligible for our 3-2 program.

The 3-2 program allows Washington University undergraduates to earn an MSW in addition to their bachelor’s degree with just one additional year of study.

Ready to Apply?

 
 

Click here to apply online, or download our printed application:


For more information, please contact:

Richard Sigg
Director of Admissions & Recruitment
(314) 935-6676
rsigg@wustl.edu

 

To Learn More

 
 

The Office of Admissions and Recruitment is available to answer any questions regarding the requirements for admission and the application process. We also invite you to visit the School, speak with an admissions representative, meet a faculty member, tour our campus, and sit in on a class or two. To speak with someone regarding MSW admissions or to arrange a visit, you may submit a request online or call (877) 321-2426 (toll-free within the United States) or (314) 935-6676, or send an e-mail to msw@wustl.edu.

 
 

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