Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't find the information you are looking for in any of these questions, be sure to visit the discussion forums. Members of the Admissions Office staff participate in the discussion boards.
Visiting Campus
Q: Can we visit the campus without an appointment?
Q: Do you blackout dates when campus visits are not available?
Application Process
Q: What are your minimum requirements pertaining to GPA and the GMAT?
Q: I have an advanced degree. How is that viewed?
Q: What about work experience?
Q: How do I apply?
Q: What are your application deadlines?
Q: What should I know about the GMAT?
Q: Are late test scores accepted?
Q: What kind of transcript is needed for an application?
Q: What if I can’t get a copy of my diploma?
Q: What if I don’t want to use my current employer as a reference?
Q: Are late letters of recommendation accepted?
Q: Where do I send my supplemental information?
Q: How do I know if my application is complete?
Q: How do I check the status of my application?
Q: What if my application status has not changed for a long period of time?
Q: Do you provide feedback on why applications were denied?
Q: Can I transfer or waive classes?
Q: How do I reapply?
Q. How will I learn what to do after I am admitted?
Q: Where do I send my deposit check?
Q: What is your policy on deferred admission?
International Prospective Students
Q: What are your requirements for international applicants?
Q: Can I have the TOEFL or IELTS waived?
Q: Do you offer financial aid to international students?
Q: What is the TOEFL test code for the GSB?
Financial Aid
Q: Please tell me more about financial aid .
Degree Alternatives
Q: I am interested in taking a few graduate level business classes, but not necessarily in completing an MBA. What do I need to do?
Q: Tell me about your Joint Degree programs.
Q: Please tell me more about your International MBA (IMBA).
Q: Do you offer a one-year program?
Q: Do you have a distance-learning program?
Q: How is the part-time program different from the full-time program?
Q: What if I am not sure if I want an MBA or Ph.D.?
Q: May I apply for more than one program?
Career Services
Q: Tell me more about career services available.
Waitlist applicants
Q: How many applicants are placed on the Waitlist?
Q: What are my chances of being admitted?
Q: Should I come to campus to state my case?
Q: Can I speak with the Admission staff regarding my application?
Q: Should I send additional information?
Q: Should I take the GMAT again?
Q: Is there a ranking for those who have been placed on the Waitlist?
Q&A:
VISTING CAMPUS
Q: Can we visit the campus without an appointment?
A: We offer a visitor program throughout most of the school year. We normally ask that you schedule a campus visit two weeks in advance. However, we understand that at times your plans may bring you to Chicago with little advance notice, so we do welcome walk-ins.
Campus visit program details
Maps and directions
Q: Do you black out dates when campus visits are not available?
A: Yes. Because current students are actively involved in many facets of our visitor program, visits are not available during some breaks and exam periods. Please feel free to come to campus during these times to look around and stop by the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid. There may be a few students and faculty members on campus during these periods, and we may be able to connect you with one.
If you are interested in meeting with an admissions counselor, we would be happy to have you drop by and say hello. Please come to the GSB's Charles M. Harper Centerat 5807 South Woodlawn Avenue. Tell the receptionist at the front that you would like to speak with someone to answer any questions that you might have regarding the application and admissions process.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Q: What are your minimum requirements pertaining to GPA and the GMAT?
A: The admission committee values the diverse experiences and accomplishments each student brings to the GSB community. Therefore, we do not have cut-off levels for grades or GMAT scores required for admission. View the class profile in more detail.
Q: I have an advanced degree. How is that viewed?
A: Many applicants have advanced degrees. Chicago GSB's flexible curriculum allows you to build on your existing knowledge and choose more rigorous courses, rather than repeating what you have already mastered. In evaluating candidates, we seek those who show a strong desire for the GSB educational experience, so be sure to explain your reason for earning an additional degree in your application essays.
Q: What about work experience?
A: The Admission Committee looks for quality of work experience, not just quantity. Applicants should highlight skills developed, contributions they have made to organizations, and leadership roles. Typically, our students have three to four years of work experience before applying to Chicago GSB. Students find that having work experience as a frame of reference enhances classroom learning. Equally important, recruiters view pre-MBA work experience as an asset, which maximizes your career opportunities after school. View the class profile in more detail.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Complete the application online . It is available in July and is posted until the third deadline.
Q: What are your application deadlines?
A: Consult the application process page for details on deadlines for admission.
Q: What should I know about the GMAT?
A: 1) You should have your GMAT scores sent directly to Chicago GSB. Pearson VUE and ACT, Inc. administer the GMAT. Our school code is H9X-9F-34.
2) Your GMAT score is just one of the criteria we evaluate. While we don't have a cut-off score for consideration, we do recommend that you try to make all areas of your application as strong as possible.
3) If you score lower than you like, taking the test again can be a way to strengthen your application. The Admissions Committee looks favorably on taking the GMAT more than once, although we do not recommend taking the test more than three times. The highest of your valid scores will be considered the official one.
4) It is best to prepare for the GMAT well before the test date, so you are not struggling to take the test, write your MBA application, and manage your busy life all at once.
5) The GMAT score is valid if the test was taken less than five years before the submission date of your application. The test date makes no difference in the assessment of an application as long as it was within five years.
Q: Are late test scores accepted?
A: No. GMAT test scores may be self-reported via the online application. If invited to interview, you will be required to submit official GMAT scores to the Office of Admissions. We will not make a final decision on your application without official GMAT scores.
Q: What kind of transcript is needed for an application?
A: We need an official transcript, a copy of a transcript or a self-reported transcript at the time of application. An official transcript will be required if you are invited to interview. If you only have access to one transcript, you can send us a notarized copy as an alternative.
Q: What if I can't get a copy of my diploma?
A: Please send a notarized copy of your graduation certificate along with your application. You will be required to bring us the original certificate upon acceptance into the program.
Q: What if I don't want to use my current employer as a reference?
A: We understand the concerns about using a current employer. College professors, clients, and other supervisors can be used as references if you are uncomfortable with requesting one from your current employer. Your reference should know you and your work well enough to tell us about your abilities and address the areas indicated on the reference form. If you do not use a current employer, you may comment on the reasons in the optional essay.
Q: Are late letters of recommendation accepted?
A: We will accept letters of recommendation up to one week after an application deadline providing the rest of the application is complete, including the application fee.
Q: Where do I send my supplemental information?
A: Your transcripts and other information should be sent to:
Office of Admissions and Financial Aid
The University of Chicago
Graduate School of Business
5807 South Woodlawn Avenue
Chicago IL 60637
Q: How do I know if my application is complete?
A: Your status can be checked online through the "Application Status" link on our application system. We will notify you via email if anything is missing from your application. This includes scores (TOEFL/IELTS, GMAT), letters of recommendation, transcripts, self-reported transcripts or application fee. If your application is incomplete that status will be reflected online. Any applications that are incomplete as of the application deadline will roll over to a subsequent round.
Q: How do I check the status of my application?
A: You can check the status of your application in our online application system . Log in with the same username and password that you used when you were applying. Instead of displaying all of your application pages, the portal will show the status of your application in the review process.
Q: What if my application status has not changed for a long period of time?
A: This means that we are in the process of confirming that we have all the required information to evaluate your application. Typically, it takes us a few weeks to compile all the data. If we are missing any information we will notify you.
Q: Do you provide feedback on why applications were denied?
A: No, we do not offer deny feedback.
Q: Can I transfer or waive classes?
A: All Chicago GSB students in the Full-Time Program are required to complete 21 courses to graduate. The GSB does not accept transfer credits from other institutions. We also do not waive any of the total number of courses required. However, our extremely flexible curriculum offers options for fulfilling even the three required foundation courses. You will not find yourself forced to repeat courses you have already taken. Learn more about curriculum requirements.
Q: How do I reapply?
A: Complete the application online in its entirety. There is no special requirement for reapplicants. Please note that reapplicants do not have to resubmit transcripts.
Q. How will I learn what to do after I am admitted?
A. We will send you email messages with important information on a variety of subjects; you will receive printed materials in the mail; and there is an entire admitted students website which will provide you a detailed overview of what you need to do to enroll.
Q: Where do I send my deposit check?
A: You may deposit via credit card; instructions are available on the admitted student website. If you choose to pay by check or money order, please make your check or money order, in U.S. funds, payable to "University of Chicago-GSB". Send it to:
Office of Admissions and Financial Aid
The University of Chicago
Graduate School of Business
5807 South Woodlawn Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
Q: What is your policy on deferred admission?
A: An application to Chicago GSB should be submitted for the year in which you intend to enroll. Deferrals are handled on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the Associate Dean of Admissions, and are rarely granted. Deferrals for work-related reasons, not including mandatory military service, will not be granted.
This policy does not apply to students who are applying to Chicago GSB through a dual-degree program or the GSB Scholars Program.
INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
Q: What are your requirements for international applicants?
A: All international applicants are required to hold a college or university degree equivalent to a four-year American baccalaureate degree. In light of the Bologna Accord, Chicago GSB will also accept all three-year international degrees to fulfill the undergraduate prerequisite for application to the GSB.
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is required of international applicants whose native language is not English.
The minimum TOEFL score required for admission depends on whether applicants take the computerized, Internet-based (iBT), or paper exam. The TOEFL iBT minimum score is 104. The TOEFL computer test minimum score is 250. The TOEFL paper test minimum score is 600. The minimum IELTS score is 7. Applicants who score below the minimums may still apply, but admission would be contingent upon meeting the minimum scores or other language requirements. While the University of Chicago has specific subscore minimum requirements for each test, Chicago GSB does not strictly enforce subscore minimums since a personal interview is part of our Admissions process. Please visit the Office of International Affairs for more information.
TOEFL or IELTS score reports are valid for two years and scores will be considered expired if the test was taken more than two years prior to submission of the application.
Q: Can I have the TOEFL or IELTS waived?
A: An international applicant is exempt from the TOEFL/IELTS requirement if he/she has earned an undergraduate degree or post-graduate degree from an institution in which English is the language of instruction. An applicant is also eligible if he/she is a citizen or permanent resident of a country where English is an official language. Applicants should indicate the exemption in the application where appropriate.
Q: Do you offer financial aid to international students?
A: Financial aid information is sent to prospective students upon admission to the program. You will not need to apply for scholarships or loans until such time. Chicago GSB offers two loan programs for international students - one that requires a co-signer from the U.S. and one that does not. All admitted international students will be directed to a web site to request a loan application. The loans can be used for the I-20 visa application process.
Q: What is the TOEFL test code for the GSB?
A: The GSB's TOEFL test code is 1832-02.
FINANCIAL AID
Q: Please tell me more about financial aid.
A: All admitted students are automatically considered for a merit-based scholarship. All admitted U.S. citizens and U.S. Permanent Residents will be mailed a financial aid application packet. All admitted International Students will receive an email directing them to a website to request a loan application. For more information, view our detailed cost and financial aid information.
DEGREE ALTERNATIVES
Q: I am interested in taking a few graduate level business classes, but not necessarily in completing an MBA. What do I need to do?
A: To attend classes in this way, you may enroll in the Graduate Student at Large Program offered through the University of Chicago Graham School of Continuing Education .
Q: Tell me about your Joint Degree programs.
A: Chicago GSB offers a joint MBA/MA degree in international relations or in area studies (choose from East Asia , South Asia , Eastern Europe , Latin America , or the Middle East ) To apply, candidates must use the online application and answer the additional question for joint degree applicants. You will receive one admissions decision.
Chicago GSB students are able to pursue joint professional degrees, where they earn a professional degree from one of the University of Chicago's other graduate schools while enrolled at the GSB. Options are:
Applicants must obtain and submit applications separately to both the GSB and to the other professional school, and will receive separate decisions from each school. Contact the school for an application and admissions procedures.
Q: Please tell me more about your International MBA (IMBA).
A: The IMBA program at Chicago GSB is a flexible, yet specialized, degree designed to make you competitive at the global level. The IMBA supplements the strengths of the Full-Time, Evening or Weekend MBA program with coursework focusing on international business issues, proficiency in a regional language, and one academic term abroad through our International Business Exchange Program (IBEP ). Students are admitted to the Full-Time, Evening or Weekend MBA program, and declare their intent to pursue an IMBA soon after matriculation. Although each IMBA student creates a unique global curriculum, as a group they share goals, skills, and interests that forge a unique esprit de corps and lasting relationships.
Q: Do you offer a one-year program?
A: Chicago GSB does not offer a one-year MBA. The University of Chicago does offer a one-year master's degree in financial mathematics . However, this is an intensive quantitative program designed for people who want to develop financial models or work in derivatives.
Q: Do you have a distance-learning program?
A. We do not offer our degrees online through distance learning. At this time we believe technology-mediated courses cannot match the stimulating learning experience you’ll find here in face-to-face interactions in and out of the classroom.
Q: How is the Part-Time Program different from the Full-Time Program?
A: All of our programs offer the same degree, and courses taught by the same world-class faculty. Our Evening and Weekend MBA programs feature the same flexible curriculum as the Full-Time MBA, yet allow students to earn their MBA without leaving their jobs for full-time study. Another part-time option is our Executive MBA program designed for managers with 10 years or more of professional experience. The Executive MBA features a fixed, cohort-based curriculum and international exchange sessions among the Chicago, London, and Singapore classes.
The Evening, Weekend, and Executive MBA North America programs are housed at the Gleacher Center in downtown Chicago. These programs have their own admissions process and administrative offices.
Q: What if I am not sure if I want an MBA or PhD?
A: Our PhD Program is research-oriented and primarily intended to prepare graduates for a career in academics, although some go on to work in the business sector. You should consider your career goals and compare program information carefully.
Q: May I apply for more than one program?
A: No, you may only apply to one Chicago GSB program at a time. We ask that you wait two academic quarters before you apply to another program.
CAREER SERVICES
Q: Tell me more about the career services available.
A: Our Career Services office offers a wide range of services to help you refine your career goals and plan an effective job search. These include individual coaching sessions, resume reviews, interview practice, and much more. Career Services actively seeks job postings and arranges extensive on-campus interviewing for both permanent positions and internships. Each year more than 300 recruiters actively recruit students from the Chicago GSB. Our recruiter base is diverse, representing numerous industries and functional areas of business.
Our most recent employment report is available on our web site. This report includes a list of recruiters who visited campus and who hired from the graduating and intern classes.
WAITLIST APPLICANTS
Q: How many applicants are placed on the waitlist?
A: The number of applicants placed on the waitlist will vary from year to year and from deadline to deadline.
Q: What are my chances of being admitted if I am on the waitlist?
A: Every application is considered on its own merit and within the context of the entire applicant pool. While we cannot guarantee nor predict your acceptance, we can say that there are a number of applicants who are admitted from the waitlist each year. The percentage of applicants admitted from the waitlist varies from year to year.
Q: Should I come to campus to state my case?
A: We do not encourage applicants to come to campus to state their cases for admission. However, you can schedule a campus visit to learn more about Chicago GSB.
Q: Can I speak with the Admission staff regarding my application?
A: We do not offer feedback sessions to students on the waitlist.
Q: Should I send additional information?
A: Although not required, the Admissions Committee will be happy to consider any additional information that you would like to submit. Any material you send should add insight into your qualifications for the GSB beyond what was presented in your original application.
All additional information should be sent to:
Office of Admissions and Financial Aid
The University of Chicago
Graduate School of Business
5807 South Woodlawn Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
Attn: Waitlist
Q: Should I take the GMAT again?
A: If you feel that your current score does not reflect your true ability, you should retake the GMAT.
Q: Is there a ranking for those who have been placed on the waitlist?
A: Waitlist candidates are not ranked. All waitlisted applicants will be reviewed again in no particular order once decisions are made for the round and throughout the summer months.
