Kelly Okada Chow, WG'05
“Because Jazz Pharmaceuticals is a small company, I am self-sponsored financially. Many of the management teams are MBA grads, so they understand the value of a top-notch business education, and they've been very supportive of my academic endeavors. To me, it's completely worth it to pay for school.”
» Read more of this EMBA student perspective.
Self-sponsored applicants have at least 8 years of work experience and intend to provide their own financial support. This includes independent consultants and professionals, as well as applicants who do not expect to receive financial support from their organizations. Please note that Fellows applicants cannot be self-sponsored.
Requirement for self-employed professionals:
Letter of self-sponsorship (required). The letter of self-sponsorship must indicate that you understand the program's time commitments and will be able to make arrangements with your clients or colleagues to ensure full participation in class work and study. The letter should acknowledge that you have the resources to continue to run your business while attending the program, so that you will be able to commit to the full two-year program.
Requirements for applicants who do not expect to receive financial support from their organizations:
Letter of endorsement from your employer (required). Every self-sponsored applicant who is not self-employed must have a formal letter of endorsement from his or her organization, signed by a supervisor and submitted on company letterhead. This letter acknowledges that the company is aware of the employee's interest in applying and provides assurance that he or she will be able to take the time away from work required for full participation in the two-year program to attend classes and handle approximately 20-25 hours of study during the week. (Note: This letter of endorsement is separate from the two professional recommendations, which are also required as part of the application. However, it can further support the applicant's candidacy by providing an endorsement of the employee's qualifications and leadership potential.)
Career development plan (highly recommended as supporting documentation for your application). A career development plan frames how the Wharton MBA can lead to broadened responsibilities and opportunities.
Interview (highly recommended). We strongly encourage self-sponsored candidates to come for an interview. Make your appointment right away, even before beginning or completing your application. For more information, see Interviews.