Why are the acceptance rates of the different MFE programs so low ?

[roni]

I noticed that hundreds of student send applications to the different MFE programs, but only approx 10% or less of the applicants get accepted.
Why is that ? what is the main factor most of the applicants lack?


Thanks,
Roni.

 

[Andy Nguyen]

Supply and demand, tough competition, a fix quota for hundred of applicants.
And don't assume all top programs have <10% acceptance rate
UCB has accepted in the high 30s UCB - QuantNetwork Wiki
CMU also admitted a large number.

 

[roni]

Supply and demand, tough competition, a fix quota for hundred of applicants.
And don't assume all top programs have <10% acceptance rate
UCB has accepted in the high 30s UCB - Quantnet Wiki
CMU also admitted a large number.

so you think it's not their lack of skills/prerequisites ?

 

[Andy Nguyen]

Majority of applicants meet or exceed the requirements set by these programs. GRE Q of 790-800 is common place.
That means the admitted students are those with standout performance.
I also need to mention that I'm talking about competition at the top. The market has room for all tier of applicants. You just have to figure out which program gives you the best chance.