Unfortunately, there is no way to definitively respond to this question because business schools do not release statistics regarding interview invitations.
It is safe to assume that MBA programs interview roughly twice as many applicants as they plan to accept. In crude terms, this means that your chances of acceptance are good%E2%80%94around 50%
But keep in mind that there are additional variables at work that are not covered by this broad statement:
Whatever the outcome of your initial application, the next step should be to effectively practice for your MBA interview with a person who has experience interviewing and is knowledgeable about the program you’re applying to.
You’ve come to the right place if you’re wondering how difficult it is to get into Kellogg’s MBA program. We’ll give you a brief overview of the requirements for admission to the Kellogg School of Management on this page, and we’ll also explain whether your background makes you a good fit for the Kellogg MBA program.
(Note: This page highlights Kellogg’s full-time two year MBA. Additionally, Kellogg provides part-time MBA, JD-MBA, MD-MBA, MMM, and one-year MBA programs. ).
What is a Deferred MBA Program?
Harvard Business School (HBS) admitted its initial class of “2 2” candidates in September 2008. These applicants to Harvard Business School’s MBA program had one significant difference: rather than having two to five years of work experience, they were college seniors who would spend the following two years working before returning to campus to start their MBA.
Stanford also decided to start its own deferred admissions program at the same time. Applicants could apply, typically in their final years of undergraduate or graduate study, gain admission, and then postpone enrollment for two (minimum) to four (maximum) years after graduating.
The deferred MBA was largely popularized by Harvard and Stanford’s decision to start this type of graduate degree program, although Yale had actually started its Yale Silver Scholars program seven years earlier, in 2001.
For applicants who want to go to business school but haven’t finished college, there is a deferred MBA program. They are forward-thinking, aware of their desire to obtain an MBA, and anxious to secure their position before leaving their undergraduate institution. Top universities accept a small group of deferred admits with the expectation that they will enter the workforce and accumulate two to five years of full-time work experience before enrolling. When they enroll, these deferred admits are a part of the same class as applicants accepted using the standard application procedure.
It’s a great way for schools to attract candidates early on, especially those who they might not be able to recruit later in their careers. (More on this below. For applicants, it is a means of securing a place at a prestigious business school before they even graduate.
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How are Deferred MBA Programs Different?
When applying for an MBA through the traditional application process, candidates typically have between two and five years of work experience. You can apply to the deferred MBA program and guarantee your spot before starting your career. If all goes well, you’ll have secured a spot in a top MBA program before the summer following your senior year because application deadlines typically fall between April and June of your senior year. You begin your MBA program in two to five years, depending on the length of your deferral period, along with everyone else accepted into the same full-time MBA program.
Who are Deferred MBA Programs Looking For?
Majority of top universities look for leadership, razor-sharp intelligence, and a promising career trajectory in their deferred admits as they do in their traditional applicants.
Of course, there are significant variations. The good news is that each school makes it very clear what they want in their applicants; we’ll cover this in more detail below. However, at the highest level, candidates for deferred MBA programs are chosen from a pool of undergraduates (and occasionally graduate students). Since these applicants lack work experience, they must distinguish themselves and excel through their internships while in college, their GMAT/GRE scores, their GPA, and the difficulty and caliber of their undergraduate studies. Essays and letters of recommendation are also crucial because a deferred applicant’s resume is less detailed than that of a traditional applicant, giving greater weight to the other parts of the application.
Deferred enrollment programs have strict requirements and seek candidates from all academic fields. Yes, they accept students who major in finance, business, or economics, but they also increasingly accept those who have undergraduate degrees in engineering, STEM, or the humanities. The quality of your bachelor’s degree is less important than the excellence you demonstrated in your core coursework, extracurricular activities, and academic transcripts.
Leland is available to help you stand out in the application process, from the essay to the interview and beyond.
For a look at deadlines and to get organized, read our Comprehensive MBA Application Timeline.
Here is our guide to writing a strong MBA essay, a crucial component of the application and frequently one of the most challenging for students.
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Core Groups Deferred MBA Programs Are Looking For
In addition to these overarching factors, deferred MBA programs specifically favor the following candidate types:
- Students on clear, high-potential paths
- Obviously, students who fit the ethos and culture of that particular institution
- Students from various backgrounds or those with specialized plans and stories that make them stand out
- Low-income families, first-generation college graduates, and other students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds
- Students heading into operating roles (in tech, retail, etc)
- Students heading into technical roles (industrial tech, manufacturing management, etc)
- Students starting a business or joining a startup
It’s important to note that HBS has made it clear they prefer applicants from the last four categories. Since applicants from these groups are less likely to do so in the future, business schools like HBS want to enroll them now, before they become overly enmeshed in the workforce.
The Top 10 Deferred MBA Programs
Okay, now that we have discussed deferred MBA programs and the kinds of applicants that top universities seek, let’s look at the top 10 deferred MBA programs. We’ll examine each program in detail, from those provided by Columbia Business School to those at the University of Pennsylvania, so you can get a clear idea of the options available and decide where you’d like to apply.
Stanford GSB Deferred Enrollment
- Deadline: Applicants may submit their applications to any round, though most do so on April 11, 2023 for Round 3.
- Emphasis: Technology, entrepreneurship
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 6-7%
- Those in their final year of undergrad or who have just graduated from undergrad may be eligible.
Many consider Stanford to be the best business school, as it is ranked first in US News’ 2022 report on the subject. It draws people interested in the increasingly popular startup scene with its emphasis on technology and entrepreneurship and benefits from its proximity to Silicon Valley. Its highly collaborative, approachable culture, lovely campus, and pleasant Palo Alto weather attract a lot of students. However, at 6. 9%, it has the lowest acceptance rate in the country, so keep in mind that you%E2%80%99ll need a very competitive application to apply here Leland can assist; click here to look through our vetted, top-notch MBA admissions coaches.
The GSB Deferred Enrollment Program and Stanford GSB—MBA Program and Application Overview are our overviews of the GSB deferred program and our guide to an MBA from GSB, respectively.
Harvard Business School 2+2 Program
- Deadline: April 27, 2023
- Decisions Released: July 6, 2023
- Emphasis: balanced, contemporary
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 11.5%
- Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, a joint bachelor’s and master’s degree, or a master’s degree who haven’t taken a break between programs are eligible.
HBS%E2%80%99 2 2 Program reports 1,403 applicants with only 9% admitted for its class of 2023, which is a slightly smaller acceptance rate than its general acceptance rate, is one of the There is a reason for the high demand: HBS is excellent for students looking for a more well-rounded education and offers a wide variety of clubs and extracurricular activities, strong network building opportunities, and a focus on section unity. It may or may not be a good fit for you given the more formal classroom environment and increased competition.
Wharton Advance Access Program
- Deadline: April 26, 2023
- Decisions Released: June 29, 2023
- Emphasis: Finance, leadership
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 9%
- Eligibility: in the last year of undergrad, or graduate student
Despite having almost four times as many applicants as Stanford GSB, Wharton was still ranked second on US News’ list of best business schools for 2022. The Wharton MBA has a strong reputation and brand, particularly abroad. The Wharton community at this Pennsylvania school is a good fit for prospective students interested in specializing in finance because it has a very social and welcoming atmosphere. The Moelis Advance Access Program is still very new, having only been made available to non-U Penn graduates by Wharton in 2020.
Kellogg Future Leaders Deferred MBA
- Deadline: April 26, 2023
- Decisions Released: June 6, 2023
- Emphasis: Marketing
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 20%
- eligibility: in your first three years of your career or still in undergrad
Kellogg, which is fourth on the US News list, is a company that focuses on collaboration and socialization both inside and outside of the classroom. The program at Kellogg is incredibly flexible; you can even opt to finish your MBA in just one year. Any current students will tell you they enjoy it if you inquire about their experience.
View our full Kellogg hub at the Kellogg School of Management—MBA Program and Application Overview and our Kellogg Deferred School Hub at the Kellogg Future Leaders Program for more information.
Chicago Booth Scholars Deferred MBA
- Deadline: April 11, 2023
- Decisions Released: June 15, 2023
- Emphasis: Research, quant/data, finance
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 12%
- eligibility: within the first three years of your career or in your final year of undergrad
Chicago Booth placed third in the US News ranking. Even though Booth has an exceptionally strong academic program, it also offers flexibility in coursework, a variety of leadership opportunities, and club involvement. This commuter school’s reputation for friendliness in the Midwest may make you feel at home. Like Wharton’s Advanced Access Program, the Chicago Booth Scholars Program is still developing and growing, making it well worth a look.
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MIT Sloan Early Admission MBA
- Deadline: April 19, 2023
- Decisions Released: June 8, 2023
- Emphasis: engineering, technology (STEM)
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 14.6%
- Eligibility: enrolled in a graduate program immediately following undergrad or graduating with an undergraduate degree in the most recent academic year.
This Massachusetts university offers a highly sought-after MBA program with a focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). This is the place to be if you’re interested in a career in a STEM-related field of business. However, applicants who can demonstrate strong social skills are preferred because MIT Sloan has a down-to-earth and collaborative class profile and STEM does not equal anti-social. Candidates who wanted to work in product management or other technical fields have had success at MIT. Give the MIT Sloan MBA Early Admission program a look if that describes you.
Visit MIT Sloan—MBA Program and Application Overview for details on the MBA program at the university.
Columbia Deferred Enrollment MBA
- Deadline: April 15, 2023
- Decisions Released: Rolling basis
- Emphasis: Finance
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 14.6%
- Those in their final year of undergrad or a subsequent graduate program are eligible.
The Columbia MBA program benefits from being centrally located in Manhattan, the hub of the contemporary business world. The university has recently made an effort to promote a more diverse and collaborative culture, despite its history of having a highly competitive one. Remember that living expenses here will probably be higher than they are in your other options.
Visit our full school hub at Columbia Business School—MBA Program and Application Overview or see our Columbia Deferred School Hub at Columbia Deferred Enrollment Program for more information.
Yale Silver Scholars Program
- Deadline: April 28, 2023
- Emphasis: nonprofit, leadership
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 23%
- Eligibility: current college senior
The Yale School of Management (SOM) comes in lower on the US News%E2%80%99 business school ranking list, but it has the oldest deferred enrollment program on this list, and the Silver Scholars Program only admits (roughly) 5% of all applicants! Its highly competitive, but worth attending: Yale SOM remains world-renowned for its global networking opportunities, in Additionally, due to its exclusivity, it has small class sizes and a close-knit community.
It has a long history of sending an disproportionately high number of graduates to the nonprofit sector, though recently that number has been declining. Remember that this program starts right after your senior year of undergrad.
Visit the Yale School of Management—MBA Program and Application Overview to view our complete Yale school hub.
Darden Future Year Scholars Program (FSVP)
- Round 1 deadline is April 11, 2023, and Round 2 deadline is August 1, 2023.
- Emphasis: balanced
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 26%
- Qualifications: final year of undergraduate study or fifth year of master’s program
Darden provides a well-rounded curriculum with incredibly contemporary business methods. Darden University is renowned for producing excellent communicators, and it expects its students to cooperate. If you plan to attend Darden, get ready for a small and close-knit learning environment. The deferred program at Darden is clearly receiving a lot of attention from the admissions staff, so if you’re interested in attending, this is a fantastic choice.
Visit UVA Darden’s MBA Program and Application Overview to learn more about the Darden program.
Berkeley Haas Accelerated Access MBA
- Deadline: April 20, 2023
- Decisions Released: June 22, 2023
- Emphasis: balanced, leadership, innovation
- 2021 acceptance rate (for all MBA applicants): 13.2%
- Eligibility: bachelor’s or master’s students studying at UC Berkeley
The UC Berkeley undergraduates or graduates who wish to return to Berkeley for their MBA should apply to the Berkeley Haas Accelerated Access MBA program. It is currently not accessible to undergraduates who are not Berkeley students, but keep an eye on it because we anticipate that will change in the future. Berkeley graduates are renowned for being connected to all of Northern California’s top tech companies and venture capital firms due to their proximity to Silicon Valley.
Visit the University of California Berkeley Haas—MBA Program and Application Overview to learn more about our Berkeley campus.
How to Get Into Your Dream Deferred MBA Program
Okay: now weve covered the top 10 deferred MBA programs. We’ve briefly discussed the requirements for each program and the application materials. Now, the million-dollar question: how do you get in?.
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Second, look up school guides, advice on applying, and other useful articles at the Leland Deferred MBA Library. It is constantly being updated with fresh content and insider tips on how to enter your ideal deferred program.
Find an MBA Admissions Coach
Third, search for and partner with an MBA admissions coach.
Finding trustworthy information about the application process can be challenging, especially when applying to deferred MBA programs. The difference between receiving that coveted admissions letter and not can be made by working with an experienced coach, one who has gone through the deferred application process or has previously coached many deferred admits. The right coach can provide you with the direction and mentoring you need to get into your dream school.
If you’re unsure whether or not an admissions coach is right for you, read our article on the topic: Are MBA Admissions Consultants Worth It? When you’re ready to work with the ideal coach, search through our elite MBA admissions coaches. Here are some of our top deferred coaches:
Leland gives you the resources, connections, and coaching you need to enter your dream MBA program and achieve other challenging objectives. Sign up now to get access to more free resources, neighborhood activities, classes in small groups, top-notch coaching, and more.
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How to get into Deferred MBA programs | Chicago Booth/Kellogg
FAQ
Are deferred MBA programs harder to get into?
The majority of deferred MBA programs take the same path: apply early, get a seat, then work for two to five years in between. They tend to be extremely competitive with small class sizes. Most also charge a minimal or no application fee.
Does Kellogg have deferred MBA?
Create your own path to success with our deferred MBA program, Kellogg Future Leaders. We know you’re hungry for something bold, dynamic and impactful. The Kellogg Future Leaders program serves as a roadmap for life after undergrad so that you can graduate knowing that amazing things are in store for you.
Is deferred MBA worth it?
Furthermore, applying to a deferred MBA program can be a great experience even if you are not accepted into any of the programs. It helps you “practice” for the standard MBA admissions process later on and gives you a better understanding of the importance of leadership as you begin your career.
How many people apply for deferred MBA?
Similar to its regular full-time MBA admissions process, Harvard’s deferred admissions program is competitive. Only 9% of over 1,400 applicants were accepted for the class of 2023 HBS 2+2 Class Profile. Admissions2 2 committed students: 124GMATMedian: 730 Range: 590-790Total 2 2 applicants: 1436