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 2010 application deadlines and decision release dates:
MBA Program
| Application Deadline | Decision Release Date | |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | October 1, 2009 | December 18, 2009 |
| Round 2 | January 5, 2010 | March 26, 2010 |
| Round 3 | March 9, 2010 | May 14, 2010 |
MBA/MA–Lauder Program
| Application Deadline | Decision Release Date | |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | October 1, 2009 | December 18, 2009 |
| Round 2 | January 5, 2010 | March 26, 2010 |
All deadlines are 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Fall 2010 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.
First-Time Applicant Essays
All first-time applicants are required to complete four essays, with the option of a fifth essay that may be used to address extenuating circumstances. Reapplicants who applied for the Entering Fall 2008 or 2009 Class are to complete the Reapplicant Essays. All other reapplicants are to complete the first-time applicant essays.
Essay 1 (750-1000 words)
As a leader in global business, Wharton is committed to sustaining "a truly global presence through its engagement in the world." What goals are you committed to and why? How do you envision the Wharton MBA contributing to the attainment of those goals?
Essay 2 (750-1000 words)
Tell us about a time when you had to adapt by accepting/understanding the perspective of people different from yourself.
Essay 3 (500 words)
Describe a failure that you have experienced. What role did you play, and what did you learn about yourself?
Essay 4 (500 words)
Choose one of the following:- Give us a specific example of a time when you solved a complex problem.
- Tell us about something significant that you have done to improve yourself, in either your professional and/or personal endeavors.
Essay 5 (Optional) — (250 words)
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, inconsistent or questionable academic performance, significant weaknesses in your application).
Additional Joint Wharton MBA/MA–Lauder Applicant Essays
(required for all Lauder applicants in addition to the appropriate set of essay questions above)
- Describe a cross-cultural experience in your adult life that was challenging to you. How did you meet this challenge and what did you learn from the experience? (1,000 words)
- Please explain why you are currently applying to Lauder. How do you expect the Wharton/Lauder joint-degree experience to benefit you on both a professional and personal level? (1,000 words)
