How to Get Into a Top U.S. Business School: Requirements, Deferred Programs, and Expert Tips

If you’re thinking of attending business school, you’ve probably come across the various myths around what it takes to get in. What are the requirements? Do you need work experience? Today we’re going to go over common admission requirements for top MBA programs, how much experience you really need, and some deferred admissions options you can explore. Let’s begin.

Typical Requirements for Top MBA Programs

While each school has its own criteria, most top-tier MBA programs in the U.S. ask for some combination of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree (any major is typically acceptable).
• Work experience (usually 2-5 years, though some programs offer pathways for younger applicants).
• GMAT or GRE scores (test waivers are becoming more common, but still not guaranteed).
• Essays and personal statements.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Resume or CV.
• Interview.

Along with these common requirements, some schools may look for leadership experience, whether it’s professional, academic, or extracurricular in nature. Additionally, certain schools may require applicants to possess some degree of international exposure or language proficiency.

Do You Need Work Experience First?

Most full-time MBA programs expect applicants to have 2-5 years of professional experience before enrolling. That’s because much of the learning happens in group settings, where students are expected to bring real-world perspectives to case studies and discussions.

That being said, some top schools offer deferred enrollment programs that allow undergraduate seniors to apply early and secure a spot in a future class, although this usually requires around two years of work experience.

Top MBA Programs That Offer Deferred Admission

Harvard Business School

Harvard Business School (HBS) offers its 2+2 Program for seniors or students in full-time master’s programs. Once students are admitted into the 2+2 program they will work in a professional setting for a minimum of two years (or a maximum of four years), followed by two years in HBS’s MBA program.

Stanford GSB Deferred Enrollment

Stanford Graduate School of Business offers a program that is similar to HBS’s in that it’s designed for college seniors and students in master’s programs who don’t have full-time work experience. Stanford GSB’s program lets students explore multiple industries before earning their MBA; however, the program is notoriously competitive, so keep that in mind if you’re thinking of applying.

Wharton Moelis Advance Access Program

The Moelis Advance Access Program lets college seniors and full-time graduate students gain work experience for two to four years before starting on their MBA. Participants are encouraged to work for nonprofit organizations and take on global externships, and will also have the opportunity to meet with experienced scholars as they navigate the program.

Chicago Booth Scholars Program

The Chicago Booth Scholars Program is available to students who are looking to get into a full-time or part-time MBA program. The program gives college seniors the opportunity to explore different career paths before starting an MBA program, and provides students with access to a network of business professionals to guide them through the early years of career development.

Yale SOM Silver Scholars Program

This program differs quite a bit from the others on this list as it allows students to enter the MBA program immediately after college, spend one year in the classroom, one year in a full-time internship, and then return for a final academic year. Once again, this program is open to college seniors and those who are enrolled in a graduate program.

Making Your Application Stand Out

Beyond GPA and test scores, top MBA programs want to see that you bring something unique to the table. For example, if you’ve demonstrated leadership qualities in a student organization, a startup, or a community initiative, you could use it to your advantage.

Some form of global experience, whether it was through an internship or a job, may also strengthen your candidacy. Along with this, top MBA programs like to see students who are fluent in two or more languages, so if you are, it could be a huge advantage for you in the application process.

Lastly, having a clear reason for pursuing an MBA along with a vision for what you’ll do after will make you stand out among the multitude of cookie-cutter applicants. When putting together your application essay, be clear, concise, and personal. Above all else, be authentic.

When Should You Apply?

If you’re a college senior who knows you want an MBA eventually it may be worth looking into deferred enrollment programs, especially if you’ve built strong leadership experience as an undergrad. These programs can reduce future stress, give you more control over your career, and position you for top jobs earlier.

On the other hand, if you’re a few years into your career, start preparing for an MBA program as soon as possible. Start by building and implementing leadership skills and keeping records of your progress, projects, and any other details that you can leverage in your application.

You should also start networking and building relationships with potential recommenders who can vouch for you when you do decide to apply to a program. Of course, researching different programs will help you decide which ones most closely align with your career goals, and while you’re at it, familiarize yourself with the various tests and preparations so you’re ready to go when the time comes.

Rob Porter is an Editor at Vault.