Admissions

Learn More about Wharton's diverse and collaborative culture.

Apply to Wharton

If you think that Wharton is the right place for you, we encourage you to apply. A successful application combines substance, presentation, and good timing. It should tell your own story and make each element of your application as strong as possible.

Use our online application system to apply and to check your status. The system walks you through the required steps, including electronically submitted transcripts, recommendations, and essays.

Fall 2011 application deadlines and decision release dates:

MBA Program

Application Deadline Decision Release Date
Round 1 October 3, 2011 December 20, 2011
Round 2 January 4, 2012 March 30, 2012
Round 3 March 5, 2012 May 8, 2012

MBA/MA–Lauder Program

Application Deadline Decision Release Date
Round 1 October 3, 2011 December 20, 2011
Round 2 January 4, 2012 March 30, 2012

All deadlines are 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Class of 2014 Essay Questions

The Admissions Committee is interested in getting to know you on both a professional and personal level. We encourage you to be introspective, candid, and succinct. Most importantly, we suggest you be yourself.  

REQUIRED QUESTION: 

What are your professional objectives? (300 words)

RESPOND TO 2 OF THE FOLLOWING 3 QUESTIONS:

1. Reflect on a time when you turned down an opportunity. What was the thought process behind your decision? Would you make the same decision today? (600 words)

2. Discuss a time when you faced a challenging interpersonal experience. How did you navigate the situation and what did you learn from it? (600 words)

3. "Innovation is central to our culture at Wharton. It is a mentality that must encompass every aspect of the School - whether faculty research, teaching or alumni outreach." - Thomas S. Robertson, Dean, The Wharton School

Keeping this component of our culture in mind, discuss a time when you have been innovative in your personal or professional life. (600 words)

ADDITIONAL QUESTION FOR REAPPLICANTS:

All reapplicants to Wharton are required to complete the Optional Essay.  Please use this space to explain how you have reflected on the previous decision on your application and to discuss any updates to your candidacy (e.g., changes in your professional life, additional coursework, extracurricular/volunteer engagements). You may also use this section to address any extenuating circumstances. (250 words)

OPTIONAL SECTION FOR ALL APPLICANTS:

If you feel there are extenuating circumstances of which the Committee should be aware, please explain them here (e.g., unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, or questionable academic performance, significant weaknesses in your application). (250 words)