Full-time mba Admissions

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Applying to Questrom

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!

Helpful Links

We know the application process can take a lot of time and effort. If you have any questions, feel free to email or call us at (617) 353-2670.

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 and Financial Aid Office at (617) 353-2670 or mba@bu.edu

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).

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

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 MilitaryAmeriCorpsEducation Pioneers
Management Leadership for Tomorrow MBA FellowsTeach for AmericaHistorically Black Colleges
The Peace CorpsCity Year CorpsHispanic Serving Institutions

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.

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.

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 2024 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 mba@bu.edu or call us at 617-353-2670.

Admissions Deadlines

Entry DateApplication DeadlineDecision ReleaseEnrollment Deadline
Fall 2024October 18, 2023December 18, 2023February 5, 2024
December 18, 2023*
January 11, 2024
February 23, 2024April 3, 2024
March 13, 2024May 3, 2024May 24, 2024

*Round 2 Priority Deadline.


Applications will be reviewed on a space-available basis following the final deadline.

Admissions Checklist

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 & Financial Aid Office keeps all records on file for one year. Once you’ve submitted an application, we’ll begin the review process.

Below, you’ll find our Full-Time MBA Admissions Checklist. Bookmark the unique link below to return here later.

We’re here to help.

We know the application process can take a lot of time and effort. If you have any questions, please email or call us at (617) 353-2670.

Required Program Checklist

$125 application fee payable by credit/debit cards only. Submit at the time of application submission.

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.

Current resume, as required in the “Experiences” section of the online application. Upload in the “Supporting Information” section of the online application.

In the “Recommendations” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application.

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. 

Mail paper copy to:
Boston University Questrom School of Business
595 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02215

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.


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.

Additional Application Information

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.

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 support@kiratalent.com.

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 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, but are not limited to, obstacles in your life that you’ve had to overcome, 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 mba@bu.edu or call us at 617-353-2670. If you need technical assistance with the Kira Talent system, please contact them directly at support@kiratalent.com.

To request a GMAT/GRE waiver, you will first need to fill out our GMAT/GRE waiver request form.


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 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 factor we consider 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 mba@bu.edu 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

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 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 mba@bu.edu  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 questromappdocs@bu.edu 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 120 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.

Diplomas, the Higher National Diploma (H.N.D.), certificates, memberships or associate memberships in some professional organizations, and some bachelor’s and technical degrees are not considered equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree for the purpose of gaining admission to Questrom School of Business.

Regardless of program length, if you are uncertain whether your undergraduate degree meets our qualifications, please contact mba@bu.edu 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.

Deferred Enrollment Program

The Questrom MBA Deferred Enrollment Program offers undergraduate students who meet the eligibility requirements* the opportunity to apply now to either the Full-Time MBA or Professional Evening MBA at Questrom. If admitted, candidates will then need to gain a few years of valuable, professionally relevant work experience before beginning the MBA.

*In order to be eligible for this program, candidates must be graduating from a bachelor’s degree program at an AACSB-accredited school or school with U.S. regional accreditation, and must apply during their final year of study but prior to the graduation date of their bachelor’s degree.

Tuition & Fees

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, visit Graduate Financial Aid or take a look at the Full-Time MBA-specific information below.

Graduate Financial Aid Office

Our team is here to help you finance your education. From scholarships and loans to benefits and eligibility, we can help you explore your financing options and find the plan that works for you.

The following tuition, fees, and other expenses have been established at Boston University Questrom School of Business for the 2024-2025 academic year.  These numbers are expected to be updated to reflect the 2025-2026 academic year in late March of 2025.

Full-Time MBA TuitionCost
*Tuition$66,670
*University Fees1$1,306
Total Tuition & Fees$67,976
Health Insurance2$3,401
Books and Supplies (Estimated)$1,574
Housing and Food (Estimated)$15,450
Personal (Estimated)$3,292
Transportation (Estimated)$1,120
Loan Origination Fee$208
Total Educational Expenses*$93,021

Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice.

1University Fees include the Student Services fees, Program Fees, and Health and Wellness fees for the year. 
2*Health insurance is subject to change for 2025-2026 academic year. Full-time and students who are enrolled in at least 9 credits are required by Massachusetts law to carry health insurance. Students covered under another health plan that meets Massachusetts requirements may waive participation in the Boston University Plan. Students with coverage from insurance carriers outside the United States or coverage by non-US National Health Service programs may not waive participation. Charged in the fall semester for the academic year. 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.

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.

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

MBA+ MS in Digital Technology TuitionCost
*Tuition$66,670
Summer Tuition*$16,664
University Fees1$1,366
Total Tuition & Fees$84,700
Health Insurance2$3,401
Books and Supplies (Estimated)$1,574
Housing and Food (Estimated)$15,450
Personal (Estimated)$3,292
Transportation (Estimated)$1,120
Loan Origination Fee$208
Total Educational Expenses*$109,741

*Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice. Summer tuition is charged per credit based on 8 credits.

1Fees include the Student Services fees, Program Fees, and Health and Wellness fees for the year. 
2Health insurance is subject to change for 2025-2026 academic year. Full-time and students who are enrolled in at least 9 credits are required by Massachusetts law to carry health insurance. Students covered under another health plan that meets Massachusetts requirements may waive participation in the Boston University Plan. Students with coverage from insurance carriers outside the United States or coverage by non-US National Health Service programs may not waive participation. Charged in the fall semester for the academic year. 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.

Looking to see tuition rates in another currency? Click here to convert the US dollar amounts into other currencies, such as Euros, Great Britain Pounds, Chinese RMB, and Indian Rupees, and see current exchange rates.

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 2022 entering class, almost 80% 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.

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 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.

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 mba@bu.edu with any questions.

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 medical students.

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 mba@bu.edu.

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 mbaappdocs@bu.edu. 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 & 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.

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 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 factor we consider when making scholarship decisions, those who submit competitive GMAT/GRE scores will receive additional consideration.

On rare occasions, 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 mba@bu.edu or call us at 617-353-2670.

Are official documents, such as transcripts and GMAT or GRE scores, required?
To expedite the admissions process, please upload unofficial documents when submitting your application. 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 mba@bu.edu 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 questromappdocs@bu.edu 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 120 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.

Diplomas, the Higher National Diploma (H.N.D.), certificates, memberships or associate memberships in some professional organizations, and some bachelor’s and technical degrees are not considered equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree for the purpose of gaining admission to Questrom School of Business.

Regardless of program length, if you are uncertain whether your undergraduate degree meets our qualifications, please contact mba@bu.edu before starting the application process.

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 MBA 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 mba@bu.edu and must include the course syllabus, course description, and official transcript. For more information, please review our transfer of credit policy 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 mba@bu.edu 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 that 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.

How do I apply for Financial Aid? Admitted candidates to the Full-time MBA program 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.

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

Application Tips

Have questions about the application process for Questrom’s Full-Time MBA program? We have answers. Whether you’re curious about letters of recommendation or what we look for on your resume, you’re in the right place. These videos have all the answers you need to make sure you send in a competitive application.

Additional information is available in our FAQs.

Admissions Ambassadors

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.

Contact An Admissions Ambassador

If you would like to connect with any of our student ambassadors below, please use the contact form. If your interests are not represented, you can still use the form so we can connect you with the right person.

Amritha Farswani View Profile
Amritha Farswani
Aishwaryya Roy View Profile
Aishwaryya Roy
Anthony Yabuki View Profile
Anthony Yabuki
Avery Finkel View Profile
Avery Finkel