Full-Time MBA Admissions | Questrom School of Business

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Our MBA students don’t believe in business as usual. They’re committed to making waves in the field, and come here to challenge themselves and the future of management. They don’t want to just keep pace with the shifting business landscape, they want to be several steps ahead of it. A Full-Time MBA from Boston University Questrom School of Business launches them there, and shows the marketplace they have what it takes to make an impact.

 

 

At Questrom, you’ll study in a national hub of innovation. You’ll tackle issues that matter, issues that are redefining the global economy. Speaking of, you can choose to witness it firsthand in countries around the world during one of our global experiences. Our MBAs aren’t just prepared for the real world—they’re immersed in it. Are you ready to cause disruption?

Admission to Questrom is growing more and more competitive. Students here are dynamic, eager learners, ready to take on an MBA program that transforms them into the leader they want to be.

The Graduate Admissions Committee considers the whole picture when reviewing applicants. We look at professional background, leadership skills, academic credentials, and diversity. We seek candidates who are team-oriented, who are prone to collaboration, and who consider themselves global citizens. Our goal: to create a class rich in ideas, cultures, and life experiences, so you expand your outlook and gain new insights.

Think we’re a good fit? We encourage applicants from all backgrounds—not just business—to apply to Questrom. We look forward to hearing from you!

Application Form

Application Form

When you’re ready to apply, start with our online application form. You may submit one application per entry term, and you can check the status of an existing application at any time. Review our admissions checklist to stay on top of required materials, and keep an eye on our deadlines, too. Feel free to contact us with any questions along the way. We want the admissions process to be as simple and transparent as possible. Reach out to the Graduate Admissions Office at (617) 353-2670 or [email protected].

Re-Applicants

Re-applicants

The Graduate Admissions & Financial Aid Office keeps all records on file for one year. We welcome your re-application. Each re-applicant is required to submit a new application form and fee ($125); an essay discussing updates or changes since the time of the previous application, as well as reasons for re-applying; an updated resume; a new letter of recommendation; official university-level transcripts (if the re-applicant has taken new coursework since the time of their first application); and updated GMAT or GRE results (if applicable).

Admissions Interviews

Admissions Interviews

 

The Questrom admissions committee interviews a significant number of applicants for our portfolio of graduate programs. The interview is an evaluative component of the application process and is conducted by a member of the admissions team. We offer interviews on an invitation-only basis once the application has been submitted to the Graduate Admissions & Financial Aid Office. Throughout the year, invitational interviews will be offered on-campus, virtually, and in select off-campus locations.

Application Fee Waiver Eligibility

Application Fee Waiver Eligibility

The Graduate Admissions & Financial Aid Office will waive the application fee for current BU employees, as well as for those who attended select admissions events. In addition, we will waive the application fee for those who are members or alumni of the following programs:

The US Military
AmeriCorps
Education Pioneers

Management Leadership for Tomorrow MBA Fellows
Teach for America
Historically Black Colleges

The Peace Corps
City Year Corps
Hispanic Serving Institutions

For those interested in Questrom’s Full-Time MBA starting in fall 2023, apply for our January 5, 2023 application deadline and receive an application fee waiver.
Please note: To receive this application fee waiver, you must fill out the application fee waiver request form below. Application fee waiver requests must be approved prior to submitting your application. If you submit an application and pay the application fee, we will not be able to process a refund. To receive this application fee waiver, you must submit your application between December 12, 2022 and January 27, 2023.

Instructions: To take advantage of this waiver, please fill out this form once your application has been started. Your CAS ID can be found at the top right of the online application. Once we process your fee waiver request, you’ll receive a follow-up email with additional instructions on how to submit your application. DO NOT click “submit and pay for programs” prior to receiving these instructions. We are unable to offer application fee refunds.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, your application fee waiver may take a few business days to process. As such, we encourage you to submit your application fee waiver request as soon as you have started your application. If you wait until the application deadline to submit your waiver request, you will still be considered “on time” for that deadline as long as you submit your application within 48 hours of receiving your waiver code. You must submit your waiver request before you submit your application in order for the fee waiver to be applied. Please note: If you have been approved for an application fee waiver and are applying to one of our dual degree programs, the application fee waiver will be applied to your Questrom application only.  You will still need to pay the required application fee for the other school at BU to which you are applying.

Fee Waiver Request Form

GMAT/GRE

GMAT/GRE

Applicants to the Full-Time MBA program may request a GMAT/GRE waiver provided you meet at least one of the minimum qualifications listed below. The decision to grant the GMAT/GRE waiver is made at the discretion of the admissions committee.

You may not request a waiver if you have already taken the exam and requested your scores be sent to Boston University Questrom School of Business.

Please note: All candidates who are admitted to the Full-Time MBA program are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission. Because GMAT/GRE scores are one of the factors we take into consideration when making scholarship decisions, those who submit competitive GMAT/GRE scores will receive additional consideration.

On rare occasion, after granting a GMAT/GRE waiver, the admissions committee may ask a candidate to submit a GMAT or GRE score to aid in evaluating your candidacy for the Full-Time MBA program. If we need this additional information to complete our consideration of your candidacy, we will inform you after you have submitted the complete application and it has been initially reviewed.

GMAT/GRE waiver requests are only considered for application to the Fall 2023 entry term for the Full-Time MBA program. For Online MBA and Professional Evening MBA testing information, please visit their admissions websites.

If you have any questions about this form, please [email protected] or call us at 617-353-2670.

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

Admissions

Deadlines

Entry DateApplication DeadlineDecision ReleaseDeposit DeadlineFall 2023October 19, 2022December 19, 2022February 6, 2023January 5, 2023*February 24, 2023April 5, 2023March 15, 2023May 5, 2023May 24, 2023

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

Admissions

checklist

We know the application process can take a lot of time and effort. We’re here to help.

Feel free to email or call us with any questions. Below, you’ll find our Full-Time MBA admissions checklist—keep it handy and bookmark it in your browser with this unique link.

Remember: you may submit one application per entry term, and you can check the status of an existing application at any time. The Graduate Admissions Office keeps all records on file for one year. Once you’ve submitted an application, we’ll begin the review process.

GMAT/GRE Waiver: In response to the thousands of highly-skilled people who have recently lost their jobs in the tech industry, Boston University Questrom School of Business will offer candidates laid off by a U.S. tech company an application GRE/GMAT test waiver. To be eligible, candidates must apply for Fall 2023 entry to one of our full-time MBA programs, including our MBA+ MS in Digital Technology. 

Required Program Checklist

Required Program Checklist
Submission Options

Online Application Form
Online only
Application Fee ($125) Credit/debit cards only
Online only at time of application submission. Credit/debit cards only.

Three Video Essays OR One Written Essay In the “Documents” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application, respond to three video essay questions or one written essay to help us get to know you better.
Online required
Resume Current resume, as required in the “Experiences” section of the online application. Upload in the “Supporting Information” section of the online application.
Online required
1 Letter of Recommendation In the “Recommendations” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application.

  • Online preferred
  • Email

University-Level Transcripts Submit transcripts for any coursework completed, including study abroad and post-graduate work, in the “Academic History” portion of the application. You may upload unofficial transcripts when you apply. Should you choose to enroll, we will need official copies of all transcripts prior to matriculating. Please note that transcripts uploaded by applicants to their application are not considered official, and are only considered official if they are mailed directly to the admissions office either from your school or from an electronic transcript service. 

  • Online preferred
  • Email
  • Mail

GMAT Results or GRE Results We accept either GMAT or GRE score reports for applications to the MBA program. BU’s GMAT codes vary by program, so please see the GMAT Code chart below for your degree. BU’s GRE code is 3087. GMAT and GRE test scores are valid for 5 years and you should upload an unofficial copy with your online application. You can register for the GMAT exam at mba.com, and the GRE at ets.org. You may also wish to familiarize yourself with these tests by viewing free GMAT sample questions and practice tests, as well as free GRE preparation materials, though we do not endorse any particular prep source and encourage you to do your own research.

  • Electronic Preferred
  • Email
  • Request Official Scores

The Boston University Questrom School of Business Graduate Admissions Committee conducts a rigorous and holistic review of each application. Students admitted to our graduate degree programs must provide proof of an earned bachelor’s degree or equivalent international credential. Boston University does not require official transcripts with the submission of an application. Should a student decide to enroll at Boston University Questrom School of Business, official transcripts must be submitted and verified prior to the point of matriculation.

We are an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution.

Essays

Essays

In order to get to know you on a more personal level, applicants to our full-time and part-time MBA programs are required to complete either three short video essays OR one written essay during the application process. Because everyone expresses themselves in different ways, the choice is yours.

VIDEO ESSAYS

If you’re someone who feels they can better express themselves and their reasons for applying to the Questrom School of Business through a video, we encourage you to complete the video essays. Within the “Documents” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application, you will find your personalized link to the video essay website. Clicking this link will bring you to the Kira Talent website, our partner for the video essay process. When you register, you must use the same email address that you used to create your admission application account.

Upon creating your account with Kira Talent, you can begin your video essays. You’ll need to use an internet-connected computer with a webcam and microphone. We will first ask you a question that all candidates will receive. You’ll have thirty seconds to prepare, and then 60 seconds to record your answer. This will then repeat for two additional random short-answer questions.

You can practice an unlimited number of times with Kira Talent’s provided example questions, but once you start the formal video essay questions, you are only allowed one opportunity. This allows the committee to see your candid responses. The formal process should only take you about five minutes to complete, and can be done on your own time. If you have any questions about your video essays once you’ve registered, please contact [email protected].

Preparing for your video essay: We want your recording process to be as easy as possible. As such, we encourage you to dress in business casual attire – no need for a suit. The admission committee will review your responses as part of the application process, and are interested in your presence, personality, and fit with our community. We recommend trying out a few of the sample Kira questions prior to recording your formal video essay responses.

WRITTEN ESSAY

If you’re someone who feels they can better express themselves and their reasons for applying to the Questrom School of Business in writing, we encourage you to complete the written essay. Within the “Documents” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application, you will scroll down to “Essay” and click “Add Document” to upload your written essay.

Your written essay should be no more than 750 words, and should explain to the admissions committee why you’d like to earn your degree from the Questrom School of Business specifically. It should also address why you have selected the program you are applying to (Full-Time MBA, Professional Evening MBA, Health Sector MBA, Dual Degree, etc.) – and how that program will help you achieve your post-graduate goals.

OPTIONAL ESSAY

If you have any additional information to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee, you may address it in an optional essay of no more than 250 words. Acceptable topics for the optional essay include gaps in post-college work experience, choice of recommenders, and concerns about academic/test performance. If you plan to retake any admissions tests (GMAT or GRE; TOEFL, IELTS or PTE), please provide the date of your scheduled test here. To upload an optional essay, please scroll to the “Essay” section and click “Add Document.”

Questions?

If you have questions about the video or written essay process, please send us an email at [email protected] or call us at 617-353-2670. If you need technical assistance with the Kira Talent system, please contact them directly at [email protected].

GRE and GMAT Codes/Test Waiver Eligibility

GRE and GMAT Codes/Test Waiver Eligibility

GMAT/GRE Waiver: In response to the thousands of highly-skilled people who have recently lost their jobs in the tech industry, Boston University Questrom School of Business will offer candidates laid off by a U.S. tech company an application GRE/GMAT test waiver. To be eligible, candidates must apply for Fall 2023 entry to one of our full-time MBA programs, including our MBA+ MS in Digital Technology. 

To request a GMAT/GRE waiver, you will first need to fill out our GMAT/GRE waiver request form. In addition, all of our Full-Time MBA candidates who apply for the January 5, 2023 deadline will receive an application fee waiver. Please see the Application Fee Waiver Eligibility section of our website for more details.

Applicants to the Full-Time MBA program may request a GMAT/GRE waiver provided you meet at least one of the minimum qualifications listed below. The decision to grant the GMAT/GRE waiver is made at the discretion of the admissions committee.

You may not request a waiver if you have already taken the exam and requested your scores be sent to Boston University Questrom School of Business.

Please note: All candidates who are admitted to the Full-Time MBA program are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission. Because GMAT/GRE scores are one of the factors we take into consideration when making scholarship decisions, those who submit competitive GMAT/GRE scores will receive additional consideration.

On rare occasion, after granting a GMAT/GRE waiver, the admissions committee may ask a candidate to submit a GMAT or GRE score to aid in evaluating your candidacy for the Full-Time MBA program. If we need this additional information to complete our consideration of your candidacy, we will inform you after you have submitted the complete application and it has been initially reviewed.

GMAT/GRE waiver requests are only considered for application to the Full-Time MBA program. For Online MBA and Professional Evening MBA testing information, please visit the admissions website.

If you have any questions about this form, please email [email protected] or call us at 617-353-2670.
GRE and GMAT Codes GMAT CODE Full-time MBA: P42-5K-43 Health Sector (full-time): P42-5k-43 Social Impact MBA (full-time): P42-5k-43 GRE CODE Full-time MBA: 3087

Information for International Students

Information for International Students
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY:

Candidates who have earned or will have completed at least two years of a bachelor’s or master’s degree at an institution in which the language of instruction was solely based in English are eligible for an automatic TOEFL/IELTS/PTE waiver. Candidates must present evidence of language of instruction with the application for admission. Appropriate documentation includes a transcript coversheet, an official statement from the university, or a link to the institution’s website that specifies that the mode of instruction is English. Additionally, candidates who have or will have worked for at least two years in a full-time, post-bachelor’s degree position in the US are eligible for an automatic waiver. If you do not meet this criteria but would like to be considered for a waiver, you can submit a written request highlighting your experience with and proficiency in the English language to [email protected] prior to the submission of your application. The admissions committee will consider these requests on a case by case basis. If you are submitting test results with your application, please be advised that tests are valid for two years.

We are currently accepting Duolingo scores in addition to TOEFL and IELTS.

To access the Duolingo test, go to https://englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants. Select Boston University Graduate & Professional Programs as a score recipient, and email [email protected] with your name and the date you have taken the Duolingo test.

  • TOEFL: BU’s TOEFL code is 3087. Minimum Scores of 600 on the PBT or 90 on the iBT are recommended.
  • IELTS: Competitive applicants typically score a minimum of 6.5 on each band.
  • PTE: As more candidates submit the PTE, we are developing updated standards for our requirements. As new information becomes available, it will be posted here.
  • Duolingo: A minimum score of 110 is recommended.
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES:

We require that applicants hold a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited US institution or its international equivalent. If you have earned a three-year degree that is the equivalent of a four-year degree in the US, it will be accepted in the admissions process. For example, if you earned a three-year degree in India, your degree will qualify you to be considered for admission. Regardless of program length, if you are uncertain whether your undergraduate degree meets our qualifications, please contact [email protected] before starting the application process.

PERMANENT RESIDENTS:

Permanent residents should submit a copy (front and back) of their permanent resident card.

PAYMENT:

Boston University no longer accepts wire transfer payments for application fees. In order to pay your application fee, please do so with a debit or credit card when submitting your application.

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

 

TUITION &

FINANCIAL AID

You’re making a smart investment in BU and in your future.

We take that investment seriously. We’re happy to guide you through the financial aid process and provide any assistance along the way. To help you plan for your graduate education, take a look at the information we’ve laid out for you below.

The following tuition, fees, and other expenses have been established at Boston University Questrom School of Business for the 2022-2023 academic year.  These numbers are expected to be updated to reflect the 2023-2024 academic year in late March of 2023.

Full-Time MBA Tuition

Full-Time MBA Tuition

*Tuition
$61,050

*University Fees1
$1,074

Health Insurance2
$3,235

Books and Supplies (Estimated)
$1,574

Room and Board (Estimated)
$15,000

Incidentals (Estimated)
$4,430

Total Educational Expenses*
$86,363

*Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice.  1Fees include the Student Services fees and Health and Wellness fees for the year; does not include any special fees that may be associated with the specific schools/colleges. 2Health Insurance is required for all international students and their dependent family members. Please note that these rates are for students on the Charles River Campus, and are based on the basic student health insurance plan available for purchase through Boston University.  Looking to see tuition rates in another currency? Click here convert the US dollar amounts into other currencies, such as Euros, Great Britain Pounds, Chinese RMB, and Indian Rupees, and see current exchange rates. Massachusetts law requires all students who carry at least 75 percent of the full-time curriculum to have medical insurance. Students who cannot demonstrate coverage under a qualifying medical insurance plan are required to purchase the University’s student health insurance plan.

MBA+ MS in Digital Technology Tuition

MBA+ MSDT Tuition

The MBA+ MSDT tuition includes both the full-time tuition as well as tuition for the summer session.

*Tuition
$61,050

*Summer Tuition
$15,264

*University Fees1
$1,074

*Summer Fees
$60

Health Insurance2
$3,235

Books and Supplies (Estimated)
$1,574

Room and Board (Estimated)
$15,000

Incidentals (Estimated)
$4,430

Total Educational Expenses
$101,687

*Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice.  1Fees include the Student Services fees and Health and Wellness fees for the year; does not include any special fees that may be associated with the specific schools/colleges. 2Health Insurance is required for all international students and their dependent family members. Please note that these rates are for students on the Charles River Campus, and are based on the basic student health insurance plan available for purchase through Boston University.  Looking to see tuition rates in another currency? Click here convert the US dollar amounts into other currencies, such as Euros, Great Britain Pounds, Chinese RMB, and Indian Rupees, and see current exchange rates. Massachusetts law requires all students who carry at least 75 percent of the full-time curriculum to have medical insurance. Students who cannot demonstrate coverage under a qualifying medical insurance plan are required to purchase the University’s student health insurance plan.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-Based Scholarships

Boston University Questrom School of Business offers a variety of merit-based scholarship programs for qualified full-time students. Applicants are notified of these opportunities in their initial offers of admission. A separate application for scholarship consideration is not needed, and the Admission Committee considers all admitted candidates for merit-based scholarship awards. For the fall 2021 entering class, almost 84% received scholarship assistance with the average award exceeding half tuition each year. Here are the various awards Questrom currently offers:

Dean’s Scholarship

In our effort to attract the highest quality candidates from around the world, the Dean’s Scholarship program provides awards ranging from $10,000 to full tuition per year for candidates with outstanding professional, academic, and personal qualities. Both domestic and international candidates will be considered for these awards.

Social Impact Scholarship

The intent of the Social Impact Scholarship program is to limit the financial burden faced by students who seek to use core business management skills to address society’s most challenging humanitarian and social problems. This program provides awards ranging from $10,000 to full tuition per year to admitted students of the Social Impact MBA program. Both domestic and international candidates will be considered for these awards.

City Year Scholarship

The Boston University Questrom School of Business has partnered with City Year to sponsor a minimum of three scholarships to our Full-Time Social Impact MBA  for City Year alumni and staff members who have at least one year of service and/or City Year staff members who have been employed for at least two years. Questrom feels that there is a the rich perspective City Year alumni and staff bring to their educational experience and this experience will add to our Social Impact MBA program, focused on addressing society’s most challenging humanitarian and social problems in the global economy. This partnership will provide a minimum of $15,000 for the first year of study, and is renewable for a second year.

MBA+ MSDT Summer Scholarship

Available to outstanding MBA+ MSDT candidates, this program provides supplemental support for the added tuition costs associated with obtaining this joint degree. Awards range from $5,000 to $10,000. This award is only applicable to the summer semester of the MBA+ MSDT program. Both domestic and international candidates will be considered for these awards.

Prospanica Scholarship

This scholarship is provided by Prospanica and the Boston University Questrom School of Business to provide greater access to the best in graduate management education for Hispanic prospective students. Boston University will provide scholarships to be awarded on behalf of the Boston Chapter of Prospanica. United States citizens of Latin American descent will be given primary consideration for this award. Candidates will be notified in their admission package, and Prospanica will be notified once the recipient has confirmed his or her intent to enroll at the Boston University Questrom School of Business.

FUNED Scholarship for Mexican Nationals

The Fundación Mexicana para la Educatión, la Tecnología y la Ciencia, A.C. (FUNED), will provide a maximum of three grants to Mexican Nationals who have received a  scholarship through Questrom School of Business. These FUNED grants provide “credit-scholarships” covering up to 40 percent of the total cost of the master’s program (not exceeding $40,000 over two years).

Peter (Questrom’85) and Mary Diotte Scholarship

The Peter (Questrom’85) and Mary Diotte Scholarship, the amount of which varies from year to year, is awarded to an MBA student with strong ties to Wisconsin and/or the Midwest.  Peter Diotte is a 1985 graduate of the Questrom MBA program who grew up in Wisconsin and is committed to supporting students with a connection to this area.

Federal Financial Aid

Federal Financial Aid

We strongly recommend that all U.S. citizens and permanent residents apply for federal student loans before pursuing other loan options.  Student must be enrolled at least half-time (6 credits) to qualify for the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan. Interest begins accruing at the time of the loan disbursement. Students can elect to pay the interest while in school or have it capitalized into a repayment schedule that starts six months after you leave school. The Standard Repayment term extends up to 10 years, with deferments available during unemployment, economic hardship, or continued education. Loan funds are issued in two disbursements each year, typically timed to coincide with the start of each semester. Please note the following:

  • Students are eligible to borrow up to $20,500 per academic year
  • Students must remain enrolled at least half-time (6 or more credits).
  • Interest rate on the UNSUB loan is currently 6.54% fixed.

HOW TO APPLY – FALL 2022/SPRING 2023

  1. Obtain a FSA ID. Students will need a FSA ID to complete and electronically sign the FAFSA.
  2. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (2022-2023 FAFSA) Boston University’s FAFSA school code is 002130.
  3. Complete the 2022-2023 Federal Unsubsidized Loan Application. First time BU applicants may be asked to provide their SSN through secure email.
  4. Submit the Master Promissory Note (MPN)* and Entrance Counseling for your loan (first time BU borrowers only)

*Be sure to complete the first option given, “MPN for Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans”. The Graduate PLUS MPN is specifically for the Graduate PLUS Loan and not the unsubsidized loan. *For students starting their program in Fall 2024, you must complete the 23-24 FAFSA which will be available October 1, 2022. You must also complete the 2023-2024 Federal Unsubsidized Direct loan application which will also be available October 2022. Questions regarding federal loan funding can be sent to [email protected]

Private Loans

Private Loans

For students who need financing beyond what is available through the federal student loan programs or choose not to borrow a federal loan, we offer a list of recommended loans and lenders here. A co-signer with a strong credit history will increase your chances of being approved for an alternative/supplemental loan.

Loan Options for International Students

Loan Options for International Students

Student loans are available to international students with a credit-worthy U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident co-applicant. We have a list of recommended loans and lenders. You are in no way limited to loans/lenders on our list of options. Additional financing options for international graduate students may be available from MPOWER Financing if students are unable to obtain a valid U.S. cosigner. We use the following criteria in developing our list of recommended loans and lenders:

  • Loan terms and cost to borrower
  • Borrower benefits
  • Differentiated options (fixed rate versus variable rate loans, for-profit versus nonprofit organizations, regional versus national lenders)

You are in no way limited to loans/lenders on our list of options. Boston University will process a loan from any lender, and it is your right to apply for loans through the lender of your choice.

Payment Plan Options

Payment Plan Options

Students may choose to budget all or part of their semester balance in five monthly payments with the Payment Plan administered by Nelnet. Participants must complete an enrollment agreement and pay a nonrefundable enrollment fee per semester. For more information about the  Payment Plan or learn how to enroll enroll online, please visit the Student Accounting Services website. The deadline to enroll in the Payment Plan is mid-August for the Fall Semester, and mid-December for the Spring Semester. Payments for fall term begin in May and enrolling after May would require making back payments upon enrollment.

Veteran Benefits

Veteran Benefits

Veterans and military personnel are eligible for educational assistance. If you are interested in taking advantage of this assistance, please contact 1-888-GI-BILL (1-888-442-4551) and speak with a Veterans Benefits Counselor or visit the GIBill website.

Yellow Ribbon Program

Boston University is proud to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, an agreement with the Veterans Administration (VA) to fund tuition expenses that exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition rate. Individuals with active duty service since September 11, 2001, may be eligible for this benefit and can apply online at United States Department of Veterans Affairs. As a 2010-2011 academic year participant in the Post-9/11 GI Bill’s Yellow Ribbon Program (YRP), Boston University will provide 20 students with Yellow Ribbon scholarships on a first-come, first-served basis. The University will contribute up to $2,600 per student per semester (fall, spring, and summer) that will be matched by the Veterans Administration. Please click here for more information.

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

Class

profile

At Questrom, blending in isn’t an option.

Each one of our students has a unique background—from nationality to undergraduate study to work experience. A military veteran who specialized in unconventional warfare, a program manager who taught teens self-defense, a Silicon Valley native with a passion for video game development. They’ve all walked our halls. Questrom Full-Time MBA students may have a wide variety of stories to tell, but they all share an unstoppable drive to make a difference.

When dozens of paths cross, you get a learning environment rich in innovative ideas and creative solutions. That’s our goal: to offer you a program that pushes your boundaries and dares you to think differently. You won’t just leave Questrom with an MBA—you’ll take a lifelong network with you, too.

QUESTROM FULL-TIME MBA INCOMING CLASS (SEPTEMBER 2022)

154

ENROLLED STUDENTS

1347

APPLICATIONS RECEIVED

*While we understand that sex and gender may not be binary, this information is based on reporting requirements to the US Federal Government.

**US underrepresented students of color refers to racial or ethnic minorities that are underrepresented in business education. This group includes the following groups of US citizens: Hispanic American or Latino, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and American Indian or Alaska Native. This list is not reflective of all US underrepresented populations.

683

GMAT (AVERAGE)

640-730

MID 80% RANGE, GMAT

3.30

UNDERGRADUATE GPA (AVERAGE)

2.78-3.81

MID 80% RANGE, UNDERGRADUATE GPA

159

GRE Quant (AVERAGE)

151-165

MID 80% RANGE, GRE Quant

314

GRE TOTAL (MEAN)

300-326

MID 80% RANGE, GRE (TOTAL)

6 Years

WORK EXPERIENCE (AVERAGE)

2-10 years

MID 80% RANGE, WORK EXPERIENCE

28

AGE (MEAN)

24-32

MID 80% RANGE, AGE

Our Community

questrom ftmba class profile

Academic Background

30% ENGINEERING / COMPUTER SCIENCE
25% BUSINESS / ACCOUNTING / FINANCE
22% SOCIAL SCIENCES / HUMANITIES
16% MATH / SCIENCE
7% ECONOMICS

International Countries Represented

42% CENTRAL & SOUTH ASIA
27% EAST & SOUTHEAST ASIA
15% MEXICO, LATIN AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN
10% MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA
4% EUROPE
1% CANADA
1% AUSTRALIA & PACIFIC ISLANDS

Countries Represented:

BELGIUM
BRAZIL
CANADA
CHILE
CHINA
COLOMBIA
COSTA RICA
GERMANY
GHANA
HONDURAS
INDIA
INDONESIA
IRAN
ITALY
JAPAN
KAZAKHSTAN
LEBANON
MALAYSIA
MEXICO
MONGOLIA
MYANMAR
NEW ZEALAND
NIGERIA
PAKISTAN
PERU
PHILIPPINES
POLAND
SAUDI ARABIA
SPAIN
SOUTH KOREA
SRI LANKA
TAIWAN
THAILAND
TURKEY
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
UNITED KINGDOM
USA
VENEZUELA
VIETNAM
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Get a firsthand look at life as a Questrom MBA student as well as the application process by emailing our MBA Admission Ambassadors, checking out our student profiles, or reading our graduate student blog.

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

FAQ’s

Application Process

What type of applicant does BU look for?
The admissions committee looks at many factors when reviewing an application, some of which include:

  • A record of academic excellence — so we can be assured that you will thrive in our dynamic learning environment
  • Evidence of managerial and leadership potential — to indicate the value you will bring to future employers
  • Diversity of thought — to ensure that you will be challenged by people who have different fields of reference within your teams and in the classroom

Learn more about our class profile, approach and mission. We also invite you to watch our application tips videos to learn more about our admissions process.
We are committed to enrolling qualitatively excellent incoming classes that represent global, ethnic, and demographic diversity. It is our policy to encourage prospective students to consider our management programs regardless of race, color, religious creed, gender, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, eligible veteran status or any other category protected by law. How do I begin an application? We ask all interested applicants to fill out our online application and follow our admission procedures.

When is the deadline to apply?
We have several deadlines throughout the year. Please see our deadlines page for additional information.

What is the reapplication policy?
The Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office keeps all records on file for one year. In order to reapply you must follow the re-application procedure as outlined on our website. What is the process for applying to one of Questrom’s joint degree programs?
Aside from the MBA+ MS in Digital Technology, which is housed solely within Questrom, admission to all other MBA+ Joint Degrees requires separate applications to both Questrom and the appropriate BU school or college associated with the joint degree. Candidates should refer to the application deadlines and admission decision dates for both schools to determine the best time to submit their application to each program.

For the MBA+ JD (non-accelerated), students who are already enrolled in the School of Law may apply to Questrom’s MBA program as a joint degree student. Students often apply before or during their first year of law school to begin the MBA program in their second year.

In addition, students who are already enrolled in the School of Medicine can apply for the MBA+ MD at various points during their time as a medical student. Those interested in the MBA+JD (3 year accelerated) should apply to the Professional Evening MBA program starting in the Fall. While this is a full-time dual degree, the MBA portion is completed with the Professional Evening MBA. Please contact the Graduate Admissions & Financial Aid Office at [email protected] any questions.

When you’re ready to apply, use our online application form for both degrees. You may submit one application per entry term, and you can check the status of an existing application at any time. Review our admissions checklist above to stay on top of required materials, and be sure to keep an eye on deadlines, too. Feel free to contact us with any questions along the way. We want the admissions process to be as simple and transparent as possible. Reach out to the Graduate Admissions & Financial Aid Office at 617-353-2670 or [email protected].

Who should write my recommendation?
While it is your choice to decide who to ask to write your letters of recommendation, we suggest recommendations come from an employer or someone you have worked with in a professional setting.

Where do I send my official application components (i.e official transcripts)?
You should first upload your documents with your application or email them to [email protected]. If you are admitted, you will be required to submit official documents. Official documents can be mailed to:

Boston University Questrom School of Business Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office, Suite 115 Rafik B. Hariri Building 595 Commonwealth Ave Boston, MA 02215

How long will I have to wait for my admission decision?
If your application is submitted in its entirety by the required deadline, we aim to release the decision to you by the anticipated decision response dates found in our application deadlines section. This precludes our doctoral programs. For the anticipated decision response dates, please view our application deadlines.

Requirements

Do I need to take the GMAT or GRE?

Applicants to the Full-Time MBA program may request a GMAT/GRE waiver provided you meet at least one of the minimum qualifications listed below. The decision to grant the GMAT/GRE waiver is made at the discretion of the admissions committee.

You may not request a waiver if you have already taken the exam and requested your scores be sent to Boston University Questrom School of Business.

Please note: All candidates who are admitted to the Full-Time MBA program are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission. Because GMAT/GRE scores are one of the factors we take into consideration when making scholarship decisions, those who submit competitive GMAT/GRE scores will receive additional consideration.

On rare occasion, after granting a GMAT/GRE waiver, the admissions committee may ask a candidate to submit a GMAT or GRE score to aid in evaluating your candidacy for the Full-Time MBA program. If we need this additional information to complete our consideration of your candidacy, we will inform you after you have submitted the complete application and it has been initially reviewed.

GMAT/GRE waiver requests are only considered for application to the Full-Time MBA program. For Online MBA and Professional Evening MBA testing information, please visit the admissions website.

If you have any questions about this form, please email [email protected] or call us at 617-353-2670.

Are official documents, such as transcripts and GMAT or GRE scores, required?
To expedite the admissions process we ask that you upload unofficial documents at the time of your application submission. Admitted candidates are required to submit official copies of all documents.

Do I need a TOEFL/IELTS/PTE score?
Candidates who have earned or will have completed at least two years of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at an institution in which the language of instruction was solely based in English are eligible for an automatic TOEFL/IELTS/PTE waiver. Candidates must present evidence of language of instruction with the application for admission (through their transcript/accompanying documents or a link to the institution’s website). Additionally, candidates who have or will have worked for at least two years in a full-time, post-Bachelor’s degree position in the US are eligible for an automatic waiver.

If you do not meet this criteria but would like to be considered for a waiver, you can submit a written request highlighting your experience with and proficiency in the English language to [email protected] prior to the submission of your application. The admissions committee will consider these requests on a case by case basis. If you are submitting test results with your application, please be advised that tests are valid for 2 years.

We are currently accepting Duolingo scores in addition to TOEFL and IELTS. To access the Duolingo test, go to https://englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants. Select Boston University Graduate & Professional Programs as a score recipient, and email [email protected] with your name and the date you have taken the Duolingo test.

What is the minimum TOEFL/IELTS/PTE scores you accept?
TOEFL: Minimum scores of 600 on the PBT or 90 on the IBT are recommended. BU’s TOEFL code is 3087, and the department code is 02.

IELTS: Competitive applicants typically score a minimum of 6.5 on each band.

PTE: As more candidates submit the PTE, we are developing updated standards for our requirements. As new information becomes available, it will be posted here.

Duolingo: A minimum score of 110 is recommended.

Do I need to complete a video essay?
In order to get to know you on a more personal level, applicants to our full-time and part-time MBA programs are required to complete either three short video essays OR one written essay during the application process. Because everyone expresses themselves in different ways, the choice is yours. For more information on what the admissions committee is looking for in your essay(s), as well as directions on how to complete them, please review the Essays section in our admissions checklist.

Do I need to interview?
We offer candidates the opportunity to request a pre-application interview before our first deadline in October, as well as on an invitation-only basis once the application has been submitted to the Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office. We do not offer informational interviews, but strongly encourage you to attend one of our information sessions instead, or to learn more about our admissions process by watching our application tips videos.

Do I need to come to campus for my interview?
No, though we encourage you to visit campus, it is not necessary to come for your interview. We offer off-campus interviews in many major cities around the country, as well as ample opportunities to conduct your interview by Zoom.

Is work experience required?
We do not have a minimum work experience requirement applicants must meet in order to be admitted. With few exceptions, accepted students have at least two years of full-time, post-undergraduate professional experience. The Admissions Committee takes internships and cooperative education assignments into account, but those experiences are usually considered supplementary. To see the averages of our current classes, please visit the class profile.

Are there any prerequisite courses? Do I need an undergraduate degree in business or a professional business background?
There are no prerequisites for our full-time MBA programs. The admissions committee looks for good quantitative skills, leadership and analytical ability, and excellent verbal expression. You can demonstrate these competencies through a variety of undergraduate majors and professional experiences. A large percentage of our MBA students do not have an undergraduate business background.

Do I need a four-year degree?
We require that applicants hold a four-year Bachelor’s degree from an accredited US institution or its international equivalent. If you have earned a three-year degree that is the equivalent of a four-year degree in the US, it will be accepted in the admissions process. For example, if you earned a three-year degree in India, your degree will qualify you to be considered for admission. Regardless of program length, if you are uncertain whether your undergraduate degree meets our qualifications, please contact [email protected] before starting the application process.

Program & Transfer

Can I take classes before applying? In most instances, a student must be matriculated in the Boston University Questrom School of Business in order take courses at Questrom. Those interested in taking one or more courses without matriculating need to meet certain, specific criteria in order to register as a guest student. There are four categories of eligible guest registrants:

  1. Current graduate students of other schools or colleges within Boston University.
  2. Current MBA students registered at another AACSB accredited institution.
  3. MBA alumnus/a from Boston University Questrom School of Business Graduate Program or another AACSB accredited MBA program.
  4. Graduate students at Consortium institutions (Boston College, Brandeis University, Tufts University, and Hebrew College).

If you satisfy any of these requirements, you can contact the Graduate Academic and Career Development Center at (617) 353-2673 for more information about guest student registration.

Can I transfer into the MBA program? While we do not have a formal transfer application process, students currently enrolled in other MBA programs are welcome to apply through the standard application process.

Can I transfer credits from classes I have previously taken? Pending approval, we accept transfer credit for the full-time and part-time MBA programs. In order to transfer credit, you must meet the requirements outlined in our MBA transfer of credit policy.

To determine whether or not a course will transfer into the MBA program at Boston University, you will need to email [email protected], and must include the course syllabus, course description, and official transcript. For more information on the transfer of credit process, please review our policy here, or contact the Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office at (617) 353-2670 with any additional questions.

Can I waive out of a core class if I have a strong academic background in that area? Due to the highly integrated nature of the full-time MBA curriculum, waivers are not offered for core courses.

Can I begin the program in January? No. Students admitted to the full-time MBA Programs can only enroll in August.

How can I switch between programs? Between the part-time MBA and full-time MBA program? Health Sector MBA & Social Impact MBA? This depends on where you are within the process:

Application in Progress: If you have started, but not yet submitted an application, you may not change programs without losing all of your inputted data. In this case, please submit the application you have started and follow the “application submitted” steps below.

Application Submitted: Once you have submitted your application, please contact the Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office at [email protected] with a written request to change your application to the program for which you’d like to be considered.

The admissions committee will consider your request and will notify you of the outcome. Please note, you may only be considered for one MBA program per entry term.

Enrolled student: Once you have enrolled in a program, changing programs is handled on a case by case basis. Students wishing to switch between programs should work with their advisor in the Graduate Academic & Career Development Center.

Are there study abroad opportunities? Yes, Questrom offers many opportunities for global immersion experiences, including student-led treks and Global Immersion Courses which are one to two week intensive electives conducted abroad by BU faculty. Recent global immersion experiences include trips to Paris, Israel and Vietnam.

Can international students study part-time? Usually not. If your reason for entering the United States is to enroll in the full-time MBA program, you will be eligible for a University-sponsored student visa that entitles you to full-time study only. International students who are looking to study in our part-time program must have a visa that allows them to do so, such as an employer-sponsored working visa.

Can I take MBA courses at Boston University via distance learning? Do you have online courses? Since the Full-Time MBA is a residential program, students are not able to take any classes online. However, the Questrom School of Business offers both on-campus and online MBA programs. We encourage MBA applicants interested in online classes to consider our Online MBA. More details about this 100% online, part-time program can be found here.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

How do I apply for Financial Aid? Admitted candidates to the full-time MBA programs are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships. You do not need to submit any additional information to be eligible for a merit-based award. Notification about scholarships is included in the acceptance packet. The Federal Unsubsidized Loan is available to U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents. Students are eligible to borrow up to $20,500 for an academic year. Learn more about our financial aid offerings.

Do you offer financial aid to international students? Yes, all applicants to our full-time program are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships provided that their applications are submitted by the admission deadlines. A separate application is not required.

In addition, international students can finance their graduate education with credit-based education loans. That said, they may need to apply with a creditworthy US citizen or permanent resident with a US-based address. We encourage international students to research the different loan programs and determine which loan best fits their needs. All students are encouraged to seek lenders offering loans with the most favorable terms. Here are some loan options for International Students seeking to borrow without a co-borrower and important steps they should take in investigating all loan options.

Still have questions about admissions?

The Graduate Admissions & Financial Aid team is here to support you during the admission process. Please feel free to email us at [email protected] or to call us at (617) 353-2670.

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

Application

Tips

Questions about the application process for Questrom’s Full-Time MBA Program? We have answers.

 

Whether you’re curious about what types of work experience we look for or looking for more information on scholarships, you’re in the right place.  These videos have all the answers you need to make sure you send in a competitive application. Watch them all.  Or use the stamps to skip straight through to the information you’re looking for.

Letters of Recommendation & Work Experience
Academics – Test Scores & Transcripts
Admission Processes & Scholarships
Interviews & Essays

Letters of Recommendation & Work Experience

 

Use the time stamps to jump to a specific section of the video.

Overview – 0:00
Choosing your recommenders – :51
Preparing recommenders – 2:13
Helping your recommenders help you – 2:55
Work experience – 3:13
Year of work needed – 3:57
Type of work experience – 4:22
Setting up your resume – 4:54
Gaps in work experience – 5:23
More information – 5:51

ACADEMICS – TEST SCORES & TRANSCRIPTS

Use the time stamps to jump to a specific section of the video.

How GMAT & Transcripts are valued – 0:00
GMAT v. GRE – 1:20
Taking multiple tests – 2:02
Submitting your score – 2:20
GMAT & GRE minimums and averages – 2:44
Preparing for the exam – 3:14
Transcripts – 3:36
GPA minimums and averages – 4:50
Transcript submission – 4:57
International Student Transcripts – 5:25
More Information – 5:57

Admission Processes & Scholarships

Use the time stamps to jump to a specific section of the video.

Application form – 0:00
What we want to see in an applicant – 1:17
Best time to apply – 2:15
Transcripts – 3:46
Specialties and Dual Degrees – 4:02
Switching programs – 5:02
Parallel Applications – 5:45
Transferring Credits – 6:03
Course Waivers – 6:39
Scholarships – 6:51
Waitlist – 8:58
What to do if you’re not admitted – 9:36
Reapplications – 9:52
Deferring – 10:22
More Information – 10:59

Interviews & Essays

Use the time stamps to jump to a specific section of the video.

Purpose of interview and Essay – :22
Who is interviewed- 1:01
Preapplication Interview – 1:47
Interview format – 2:23
Essays – 3:15
Written essays – 3:35
Video essay – 3:44
Choosing between written and video – 4:24
Optional essay – 4:41
More information – 5:10

Additional information is available in our FAQs.

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

ADMISSIONS

AMBASSADORS

Interested in connecting with a current MBA student?

Meet our MBA Admissions Ambassadors, a group of current students who help prospective students discover Questrom, and all it has to offer. Our MBA Admissions Ambassadors are around to chat via email, on the phone, or even in-person to answer your questions about what being an MBA student at the Questrom School of Business is really like. Take a look at our student profiles below, and feel free to reach out directly to anyone you’d like to connect with. If you have any interests not represented on this list, please reach out to [email protected] and we can help find the person who can best answer those questions, as well.

Full-Time MBA Ambassadors

Full-Time MBA

Admissions

Events &

Campus Visits

Take

the

next step

See for yourself how the Questrom experience can transform your world. Attend an admissions event in-person or online, grab coffee with a student, sit in on a class, and more.

Browse All Upcoming Admissions Events

Visit Campus

Next Information Session

Full-Time MBA & Professional Evening MBA Hybrid Information Session

Apply to the full-time MBA

Ready to apply? Once you’ve submitted your materials, we’ll start the review process. We’re happy to answer your questions along the way.

BEGIN THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Application Deadlines

  • Fall 2023 Entry

  • Fall 2023 Entry

  • Fall 2023 Entry