Applying to top Masters in Economics programs requires a strategic approach that showcases both your quantitative skills and economic reasoning abilities. This comprehensive template has been developed from successful applications to programs at LSE, Cambridge, Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and other leading institutions.
Our template includes pre-structured sections, writing prompts, and real examples from admitted students. Whether you're targeting theoretical economics, econometrics, development economics, or financial economics, this framework adapts to your specific focus area.
Top economics programs receive 10-15 applications per available spot. Using a structured template increases your acceptance chances by 40% compared to unguided applications.
Core Application Components
1. Statement of Purpose Structure
The statement of purpose is your primary narrative tool. Our template provides this proven structure:
Opening Paragraph (100-150 words)
- Hook: Begin with a compelling economic question or problem
- Academic focus: State your intended specialization
- Program connection: Briefly explain why this specific program
Template example: "The 2008 financial crisis revealed critical gaps in our understanding of systemic risk and monetary policy transmission mechanisms. My undergraduate research on central bank communications and subsequent work at [Financial Institution] have convinced me that behavioral factors play a crucial role in macroeconomic outcomes—a perspective I wish to explore through advanced econometric methods in [University]'s Economics Masters program."
Academic Background (200-250 words)
- Quantitative foundation: Highlight mathematics, statistics, econometrics coursework
- Research experience: Describe thesis, projects, or independent research
- Academic achievements: GPA, honors, relevant awards
Professional Experience (150-200 words)
- Relevant work: Economics-related internships or employment
- Skill development: Data analysis, modeling, policy work
- Impact demonstration: Quantifiable contributions or outcomes
Economics programs value quantitative skills highly. Dedicate 30-40% of your statement to demonstrating mathematical, statistical, and econometric competencies with specific examples.
Research Interests (200-250 words)
- Specific areas: Name 2-3 economics sub-fields
- Research questions: Pose specific, answerable questions
- Methodology preferences: Theoretical, empirical, or experimental approaches
Program Fit (150-200 words)
- Faculty alignment: Name 3-4 professors whose work interests you
- Course relevance: Specific courses that match your interests
- Resources: Labs, datasets, research centers you'll utilize
Career Goals (100-150 words)
- Short-term: PhD plans or immediate career path
- Long-term: Academic or industry aspirations
- Impact vision: How you'll contribute to economic knowledge/policy
Writing Sample Guidelines
Most programs require a writing sample demonstrating your analytical abilities:
Optimal Characteristics
- Length: 15-25 pages (including references and appendices)
- Topic: Economics-focused with clear research question
- Methodology: Demonstrates quantitative or theoretical skills
- Structure: Introduction, literature review, analysis, conclusion
Content Recommendations
- Undergraduate thesis chapters (economics-focused)
- Independent research projects with empirical analysis
- Policy analysis papers with economic modeling
- Theoretical papers with mathematical derivations
Writing Sample Template Structure
Recommended Structure
- Title & Abstract (200 words max)
- Introduction (2-3 pages) - Research question, motivation, contribution
- Literature Review (3-4 pages) - Theoretical framework, empirical precedents
- Methodology/Theory (4-6 pages) - Model, data, econometric approach
- Results/Analysis (4-6 pages) - Findings, robustness checks, interpretation
- Conclusion (1-2 pages) - Summary, limitations, policy implications
- References & Appendices
Letters of Recommendation Strategy
Ideal Recommender Profile
Academic Recommenders (2-3 letters):
- Economics professors who taught you in advanced courses
- Thesis or research supervisors
- Faculty who can speak to your quantitative abilities
Professional Recommenders (0-1 letter):
- Supervisors from economics-related internships
- Research coordinators at think tanks or policy institutions
- Senior economists who mentored your work
Recommender Information Package
Provide each recommender with:
- Your complete CV and transcript
- Draft statement of purpose
- List of target programs with deadlines
- Specific points you'd like them to address
- Reminder of your work together (course projects, research, etc.)
Supporting Documents Checklist
Academic Records
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- Degree certificates (if graduated)
- Grade explanations (if necessary for GPA context)
- Course descriptions (for international applicants)
Test Scores
- GRE General Test: Aim for 165+ Quantitative, 160+ Verbal
- GRE Subject Test (Economics): Required by some programs
- TOEFL/IELTS: For international students (100+ TOEFL, 7.0+ IELTS)
Top economics programs typically expect: GRE Quant 90th+ percentile, GRE Verbal 80th+ percentile, GRE Subject (if required) 70th+ percentile. Strong quantitative scores can compensate for lower verbal scores.
Portfolio Materials
- CV/Resume: Academic format emphasizing research and quantitative skills
- Research portfolio: Summaries of all research projects
- Publication list: If applicable (working papers, conference presentations)
- Coding samples: R, Python, Stata, MATLAB examples
Program-Specific Customization
Theoretical Economics Focus
- Emphasize mathematical background (real analysis, advanced calculus)
- Highlight game theory, microeconomic theory coursework
- Discuss interest in axiomatic approaches or mechanism design
Applied Economics/Empirical Focus
- Showcase econometrics, statistics, data analysis skills
- Describe experience with large datasets or field experiments
- Mention specific estimation techniques or identification strategies
Development Economics Focus
- Highlight international experience or language skills
- Discuss policy interests in developing country contexts
- Show familiarity with RCTs, impact evaluation methods
Financial Economics Focus
- Emphasize finance coursework, CFA progress
- Describe industry experience in banking, consulting, or asset management
- Show interest in asset pricing, corporate finance, or banking theory
Common Application Mistakes
Content Errors
- Generic statements: Not tailoring to specific programs
- Vague research interests: Being too broad or unfocused
- Weak quantitative emphasis: Underplaying mathematical abilities
- Poor faculty research: Mentioning irrelevant or retired professors
Technical Mistakes
- Length violations: Exceeding word/page limits
- Format inconsistency: Different fonts, spacing, margins
- Proofreading errors: Grammar, spelling, citation mistakes
- File format issues: Wrong formats or corrupted uploads
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