How to Get Into Ivy League MBA Programs
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Ivy League schools like Harvard, Cornell, and Penn offer some of the best MBA programs in the country. And while a business school degree from these elite institutions comes with jaw-dropping tuition rates, these programs position graduates for managerial roles that come with equally significant salaries. Mid-career Harvard Business School grads earn a median annual salary exceeding $200,000.
If you want to max out your earning potential, an elite MBA degree could help. In the following guide, we highlight some essential information that can help you navigate the Ivy League admissions process. Read on to learn how to gain admission into some of the best MBA programs in the United States.
The Benefits of Attending an Ivy League MBA Program
Getting into an Ivy League MBA program can lead to new career opportunities and responsibilities. Employers may favor candidates with an Ivy League education, as it can show employers that you have technical skills, business acumen, and the ability to perform well in a highly competitive environment. An executive position or a leap into a new industry could be within reach.
Additionally, you'll get an invaluable network of peers, alumni, and industry connections at an Ivy League MBA program. This network can connect you to unique opportunities you would have never had access to otherwise.
What Do I Need to Apply for a Top-Ranked MBA Program?
To apply for a top-ranked MBA program, you'll need a solid academic and professional profile. This includes a high GPA, a high GRE or GMAT score, relevant work experience, and strong essays and letters of recommendation.
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A Good GMAT Score
A high GMAT score is often a critical factor in applications to top MBA programs. These scores are used by admissions committees to predict your ability to succeed in business school. Therefore, investing time and resources in preparing for the GMAT can significantly improve your chances of getting into an Ivy League MBA program. -
High Undergraduate GPA
A high undergraduate GPA is another important factor Ivy League institutions consider. While not the only determining factor, a high GPA can signal your academic ability and dedication. Ivy League MBA programs do not have a minimum GPA requirement. However, the class of 2025 at Ivy League MBA programs had a median undergraduate GPA of 3.3-3.7. -
Previous Work Experience
Work experience is another key consideration for admission into top MBA programs. Schools look for applicants with several years of professional experience. This indicates that you have a practical understanding of business and management principles. -
Strong Essays and Letters of Recommendation
Strong MBA essays and letters of recommendation are also crucial for a successful application. Your essays should reflect your career goals, unique qualities, and reasons for pursuing an MBA.
"Avoid repeating what can be found on your resume by telling stories about who you are, the challenges you faced, and the successes that make you who you are."
Letters of recommendation can provide further insight into your abilities from a professional or academic perspective. Thus, choose your recommenders wisely, and ensure they are individuals who can vouch for your abilities and potential.
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Ivy League MBA Class of 2025 Profiles
| School Name | Total Enrollment | Median GMAT Score | Average GPA | Average Work Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brown University* | N/A | N/A | N/A | 16 years |
| Columbia University | 900 | 730 | 3.5 | 5 years |
| Cornell University | 283 | 710 | 3.35 | 5.4 years |
| Dartmouth College | 297 | 726 | 3.49 | 5.7 years |
| Harvard University | 938 | 740 | 3.73 | 4.9 years |
| University of Pennsylvania | 874 | 728 | 3.6 | 5 years |
| Princeton University** | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Yale University | 339 | 720 | 3.64 | 5.1 years |
**Does not have an MBA program
Five Tips to Get Into an Ivy League MBA Program
1. Define Your Goals
It is critical to clearly lay out your career goals. The best MBA programs look for students with specific career objectives rather than a lofty, ambiguous mission.
Along with career objectives, you should specify what you hope to gain from your academic experience. Whether it is honing leadership or collaborative skills, make sure they know what you want to accomplish while completing an elite MBA.
2. Communicate Your Unique Qualities and Experiences
Highlighting your specific qualities and experiences allows for a unique application that feels personal. Consider your academic and professional strengths while also demonstrating that you are enrolling because you want to learn.
"In addition to being strong in all areas of the applicant evaluation, you should be able to identify and capitalize on something that stands out about you, something unique about your personality or experience that is going to add value to the experience at the school."
— Phillippe Barr, Former Assistant Director of MBA Admissions for Kenan-Flagler Business School
While your personal and professional success can help boost your resume, spend some time reflecting upon the personal experiences that have shaped you. A stiff application devoid of a unique perspective will not get you very far.
3. Research Your Target School's Values and Convey Them
In addition to preparing for the GMAT and crafting a perfect resume, research your target school's values. Consider their core values and subtly reflect them throughout your application.
When applying, consider details like Harvard Business School's dedication to the actionable promotion of racial equity and diversity.
Additionally, Dartmouth's holistic approach to the admissions process seeks out smart, curious, and engaged applicants who showcase accomplishments and principles.
4. Demonstrate Soft Skills and Managerial Abilities
Ivy League MBA programs look at more than your academic transcripts and resume. The ability to demonstrate practical soft skills, such as communication, critical thinking, and leadership, is paramount. Show these schools that you can work confidently while promoting a collaborative, respectful, and enthusiastic work environment.
Soft skills smoothly segue into your managerial abilities. How people behave and manage in the workplace is more important than ever. In addition to showcasing soft skills, demonstrating a dedication to a safe and equitable professional environment is no longer an exception. It is a managerial best practice.
5. Have A Strong Academic and Extracurricular Profile
While schools like Dartmouth make it clear that your GPA does not define you, Ivy League MBA programs look for high-performing applicants. Even though your undergraduate transcript may not derail your Ivy League chances, your GPA, alongside test scores and professional experience, helps schools gauge your potential success.
"Emphasis should be on building a strong academic record and getting strong test scores. Ivy League MBA programs are looking for strong work experience and for people that do not necessarily fit an archetype."
Your extracurricular profile carries a lot of weight if you do not have a high GPA. Displaying how you spend your time outside the classroom sheds light on you as an individual and demonstrates your interests and values.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ivy League MBA Programs
How much does an Ivy League MBA program cost?
All Ivy League MBA programs carry a hefty price tag. Harvard's MBA tuition exceeds $73,000 per year. While this is a serious investment, Harvard notes that graduates earn a median annual salary of nearly $150,000. Similarly, Cornell's two-year, full-time MBA costs over $74,000 per year.
What impresses Ivy League schools?
Ivy League schools look for students with a blend of academic excellence, deep intellectual curiosity, and a demonstrated passion for specific pursuits. Accomplishments like publishing a novel, excelling in sports or academic competitions, or having meaningful volunteer experience reflect the drive and ambition the Ivy Leagues admire.
Exceptional letters of recommendation and a clear understanding of how the student will fit in and contribute to the university's community are also important. They seek individuals who are likely to make a significant impact post-graduation.
What is the easiest Ivy League MBA program to get into?
Cornell University's MBA students have the lowest GPA and GMAT averages, but that does not mean that they expect less from their incoming class. Incoming MBA students at Cornell have an average of over five years of professional experience.
What is the hardest Ivy League MBA program to get into?
Ivy League MBA programs weigh many factors when considering applicants for admission. Columbia's MBA students boast the highest average GMAT scores. Additionally, Harvard's MBA students have an undergraduate GPA of 3.7. Nevertheless, these metrics do not paint the whole picture. Professional experience and extracurricular activities also play a significant role in getting into Ivy League MBA programs.
Which Ivy League MBA has the highest acceptance rate?
The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College has the highest acceptance rate for an Ivy League MBA program, at 33%.
Interview From:
Phillippe Barr
After having served for three years as Assistant Director of MBA Admissions for Kenan-Flagler Business School, Philippe has been an admissions consultant at Accepted.com for the last 5 years where he helps prospective students present their competitive advantage on paper and in-person. In January 2024, he became the founder and CEO of The Admit Lab, a graduate school admissions consultancy that helps students maximize their chances of getting into their dream program.
Prior to joining Kenan-Flagler, Philippe served as an assistant professor at UNC, Chapel Hill for seven years where he coordinated the admission process for the masters and doctoral programs. He holds an M.A from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed March 21, 2024.
