Applying for Ph.D. programs

**The Analytics, Information, Operations academic area is not accepting applications for the fall 2026 term.**

Application requirements

All application materials should be submitted online (including transcripts). Please do not send paper documents.

Students are admitted once each academic year at the start of the fall semester. For entry in the fall, the priority deadline is Dec. 15 and the final deadline is Jan. 10. All applicants are encouraged to apply early. Notification of admission and financial aid will be made by April 15.

College calculus is a prerequisite for admission. You must have a completed application file prior to our review. Incomplete applications or applications received after Jan. 10 will not be considered for admission.

A complete application contains the following:

  • A completed KU Graduate Studies application
  • Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Focus Edition scores OR Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores
  • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores from all international students or from applicants whose native language is not English sent from TOEFL or IELTS. Duolingo scores are not accepted.
    • ​iBT minimum score to apply is 100; IELTS minimum score to apply is 6.5 Total Band and at least 6 in each component (listening, reading writing, and speaking)
  • ​Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate study completed to date
  • Three letters of recommendation received directly from the persons writing the letters
  • A non-refundable application processing fee of US $65 for domestic applications and $100 for international applicants payable to the University of Kansas
  • Resume*
  • Statement of purpose*

*Large Language Models (LLM) are a form of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) that are powerful tools, capable of assisting with research, ideation, and even refining written communication.  However, it is imperative that applicants prepare essays and other application materials (e.g., resume) that are in the applicant’s own voice, free from plagiarism, and authentic to the writer’s experiences and thought processes.  When preparing your application materials, if you choose to use AI, you should use this tool as you would in collaboration or support from human resources such as peers, mentors, or writing centers.  AI can be useful for feedback and refinement when those more traditional resources are not available.  Just as you would not copy the work of a human collaborator or source, it is not acceptable to copy Generative AI content into your application. 

Our essay prompts provide an opportunity to share your unique perspective, experiences, ideas, and aspirations.  We encourage you to take the time for meaningful self-reflection and careful writing. Show us your intellect, individuality, skills, and creativity in your own words. 

If admitted to the program, please request official transcripts to be sent to:

KU School of Business
Attn: Doctoral Program
1654 Naismith Drive
Capitol Federal Hall, Office 1193
Lawrence, KS 66045