Master of Arts [MA] (Economics)
Accepted entrance exams
Fees
Fees at Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi, for the Master of Business Administration [MBA] in International Business program include an annual tuition fee of approximately Rs. 48,000. This results in a total tuition fee of around Rs. 1 lakh for the two-year program. Additionally, there is a student fund fee that matches the tuition cost, totaling approximately Rs.
1 lakh per annum. This amount includes various non-tuition related expenses like participation in student bodies for events and placement drives. Scholarships are available for some students, with the University of Delhi offering financial assistance to those in need.
About Master of Arts [MA] (Economics)
The Master of Arts in Economics is a 2-year postgraduate programme at Delhi School of Economics, one of India’s premier institutions for advanced economics research and education. Designed for graduates seeking deep knowledge in economic theory, econometrics, development economics, and policy analysis, the programme combines rigorous theoretical training with practical applications and research methodology. Admission is through the CUET-PG entrance examination, with merit-based selection based on CUET-PG scores and academic qualifications. The programme is offered in full-time mode, and total fees across 2 years amount to ₹50,000. DSE’s MA Economics programme is nationally recognised for producing economists, academics, and policy researchers.
Admissions for 2026-27 MBA and MA programmes at DSE are through CUET-PG, with results expected in March 2026 and merit lists published in April 2026.
Key Points
- CUET-PG entrance required; merit-based selection emphasizing quantitative aptitude and analytical thinking.
- Rigorous curriculum in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, development economics, public finance, and policy analysis.
- NAAC A accreditation and DSE ranks among India’s top institutions for economic research and teaching.
- Faculty with strong research credentials and publications in leading national and international economics journals.
- Strong emphasis on research methodology, dissertation preparation, and preparation for academic or research careers.
DSE MA Economics Fees
MA Economics Fee Structure
| Component | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Programme Fee (per year) | ₹25,000 |
| Total Fees (2 years) | ₹50,000 |
- Annual fee of ₹25,000 is payable at the beginning of each academic year.
- The MA Economics programme is rigorous and includes research methodology and seminar components.
- Fees are subject to revision by the college; scholarships may offset a portion of the tuition.
DSE MA Economics Admission 2026
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| CUET-PG Registration Opens | November 2025 |
| CUET-PG Examination (Economics) | December 2025 to January 2026 |
| CUET-PG Result Announcement | March 2026 |
| DSE Merit List Publication | April 2026 |
| Document Verification | May 2026 |
| Fee Payment and Enrolment | May 2026 |
| Classes Commence | July 2026 |
Entrance Exam Dates
| Exam | Registration End | Exam Date | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| CUET-PG | December 2025 | December 2025 to January 2026 | March 2026 |
- Delhi School of Economics has a separate merit list for MBA and MA programmes based on CUET-PG scores and academic qualifications.
- For MBA, candidates are ranked based on CUET-PG score (weightage 70 percent) and academic credentials (weightage 30 percent).
- For MA Economics, merit consideration includes academic background and CUET-PG performance.
- Provisional admission is subject to submission of original documents and verification.
The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.
Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with at least 50 percent aggregate marks.
- A valid CUET-PG score in Economics or General category is mandatory.
- Candidates with BA/B.Sc in Economics are preferred; graduates from other disciplines with quantitative skills are also eligible.
- Strong analytical and mathematical aptitude is required for success in the MA Economics programme.
Admission Process
- Register for CUET-PG on the NTA website and submit the application form before the deadline.
- Appear for the CUET-PG examination in December 2025 to January 2026.
- Check the DSE merit list published on the college website in April 2026.
- Submit the online application form on the DSE official portal with CUET-PG score and academic qualifications.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for document verification at DSE in May 2026.
- Complete fee payment and enrolment within the notified deadline.
- Report to DSE by July 2026 to commence the MA programme.
DSE MA Economics Scholarships 2026
MA Economics Scholarships Available
| Scholarship | Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| DU Merit Scholarship | ₹500 to ₹2,000 per year | Top-performing students based on annual examination results |
| DSE Internal Scholarship | Variable | Meritorious students enrolled in DSE programmes based on internal criteria |
| Post Matric Scholarship (SC/ST/OBC-NCL) | Up to full tuition reimbursement | Eligible candidates from reserved categories with valid certificates |
| National Scholarship Portal Schemes | Variable | Central government scholarship schemes for SC, ST, OBC, minority, EBC, and disability categories |
- Most scholarship schemes are disbursed through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in); registration required after admission.
- SC and ST students from Delhi are additionally eligible for fee concessions under Delhi Government Social Welfare Department schemes.
- Merit scholarships at DSE are awarded to students maintaining a 75 percent attendance and satisfactory academic performance.
DSE MA Economics FAQs
Ques. What is the difference between MA Economics and MBA Finance or Business Economics?
Ans. MA Economics is a research-focused postgraduate programme with emphasis on economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy. MBA Finance is a management programme covering corporate finance and investment. MA Economics is ideal for research, academia, or policy; MBA is for corporate finance roles.
Ques. Do I need a background in mathematics and statistics for MA Economics?
Ans. Strong mathematical and statistical aptitude is essential. While students from non-mathematics backgrounds are eligible, they should have good quantitative skills and willingness to learn advanced mathematics, statistics, and econometrics during the programme.
Ques. Are there research opportunities and publication possibilities during the programme?
Ans. Yes. The programme emphasizes research training, and students work on dissertations. Faculty collaborate with students on research papers that may be submitted to journals or presented at conferences. Many students publish work during or after their studies.
Ques. What are the career options and opportunities after MA Economics?
Ans. Graduates pursue careers as economists in government agencies, central banks, international organizations like World Bank or IMF, consulting firms, research institutions, and academic institutions. Many pursue PhD programmes for academic or research careers.
Ques. Is it possible to pursue a PhD programme after completing MA Economics?
Ans. Yes. MA Economics from DSE is an excellent foundation for PhD programmes in Economics at Indian and international universities. DSE also offers PhD programmes in Economics for qualified MA graduates.
Ques. What is the placement scenario and salary range for MA Economics graduates?
Ans. While placement in corporate roles is less emphasized than in MBA programmes, most graduates secure positions in government departments, RBI, international organizations, consulting firms, and academic institutions. Salaries vary based on employer and role, with government positions offering stable careers and competitive compensation.