Getting into Harvard Business School is tough but not impossible.
Harvard Business School is one of the top business schools in the country. Business Week, U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review and Financial Times all give Harvard high marks, year after year. Admission to Harvard is coveted around the world by ambitious, highly intelligent individuals looking to make a mark in the corporate world. While there is no concrete formula for gaining entry into either of Harvard's three programs---MBA, Executive Education, Doctoral---smart, community-minded leaders have a decided advantage.
MBA
The ability to lead is critical.
Harvard Business School has no ideal candidate. Instead, it seeks individuals with a variety of skills and accomplishments. It places a premium on leadership experience, leadership potential and intellectual ability, as evidenced by prior academic performance, GMAT or GRE scores and work experience. It also rewards applicants who demonstrate high ethical standards, respect for others and a willingness to become an engaged member of the Harvard community. Harvard Business School requires interviews, applications and reference letters. The class of 2011 had an average GPA of 3.67 and GMAT scores ranged from 490 to 800. The bulk of applicants came from the consulting, investment banking and venture capital/private equity industries prior to entering grad school.
Executive Education
Intellectual prowess is a must.
Harvard Business School seeks diverse candidates for its Executive Education Program. There are no formal education requirements. Instead, the program focuses on professional achievement and organizational responsibility. Executive Education encompasses numerous programs, each with its own admission requirements. Programs include Owner/President Management Program, Changing the Game - Europe and Leading Professional Service Firms. Several programs require statements from an applicant's sponsoring executive.
Doctoral
Team players have the upper hand.
Harvard Business School admits doctoral candidates who have an intense desire to learn and teach, are committed to all aspects of academia and are independent-minded and ready for a challenge. A doctoral applicant must complete an application and provide a current resume, statement of purpose, transcripts of all college and university courses, GMAT or GRE scores and three letters of recommendation.
Tags: Business School, Harvard Business, Harvard Business School, Executive Education, GMAT scores