So you want to go to graduate school? Factors that influence admissions to economics PhD programs

Abstract

The authors survey admissions coordinators about the importance of application components in admissions decisions for economics PhD programs. The survey explores the importance of difficult-to-quantify aspects such as a targeted personal statement, strength of letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and related work experience. The most important aspects of an application are GPAs in math and economics, letters of recommendation, and GRE quantitative score. The strength of letters of recommendation carries more weight than the prominence of the letter writer. Top-25 programs place a higher value on undergraduate program rank (for students from both domestic and international universities) and strength of letters of recommendation.