Wharton MBA

Wharton MBA
Ranking : #1

The Wharton MBA is a rigorous, 20-month full-time program emphasizing leadership and global impact. It offers a unique flexible core curriculum, enabling students to customize their studies from 21 diverse majors, including nine STEM-certified options. A distinguishing feature is its experiential learning approach, fostering collaboration through learning teams and leadership development via ventures and executive coaching. With a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem and a commitment to real-world application, Wharton prepares a diverse cohort for influential roles across various industries, balancing academic depth with practical, hands-on experience.

Wharton MBA – Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered some of the most common queries applicants have about this top-ranked one-year MBA program—covering eligibility, scholarships, global career opportunities, and more.


  • No, work experience is not strictly mandatory. While the average is 5 years, Wharton seeks candidates with professional maturity and impactful experiences, regardless of years.


  • There's no minimum score, but admitted students typically have high scores. The Class of 2026 averaged a 732 GMAT. A strong overall profile can compensate for a lower score.


  • Yes, Wharton offers the Moelis Advance Access Program, a deferred enrollment option for current undergraduates or full-time graduate students to gain 2-4 years of work experience before matriculating.


  • The TBD is a 35-minute group exercise where applicants collaborate to solve a business problem. It assesses teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, followed by a short one-on-one interview.

  •  
    Very important. Essays allow you to demonstrate your unique background and fit with Wharton's community. Recommendations should provide evidence of your leadership, teamwork, and growth.

Wharton MBA - Class Profile

The Wharton MBA Class of 2026 comprises 866 students from 65 countries, with 47% women and an average of 5 years of work experience. The class boasts an average GMAT (Classic) of 732 and a diverse academic background, with representation from humanities, STEM, and business fields. This highly accomplished cohort brings varied perspectives to a collaborative, impactful learning environment.

Wharton MBA – Basic Program Information

  • Program Duration:
    • 20 months full-time, including a recommended 3.5-month summer internship.
    • The academic year runs from early August (Year 1) to May (Year 2).
  • Tuition Fees (2025-2026 Academic Year):
    • Tuition: $87,970 per year.
    • University Fees: $4,850 per year.
    • Total Tuition & Fees: $92,820 per year.
  • Estimated Living Expenses (2025-2026 Academic Year):
    • Room and Board: $28,320 per year.
    • Books and Supplies: $1,080 per year.
    • Transportation and Personal Expenses: $5,522 per year.
    • Health Insurance: $4,662 per year.
    • Total Estimated Living Expenses (excluding tuition/fees): $39,584 per year.
  • Total Estimated Cost of Attendance (2025-2026 Academic Year):
    • Approximately $132,404 per year. This combines tuition, university fees, and estimated living expenses.

Wharton MBA - Employment Report (Class of 2025–26)

The Wharton MBA Class of 2024 achieved a median base salary of $175,000, maintaining strong career outcomes. Financial Services attracted the largest percentage (36.6%), followed by Consulting (25.2%) and Technology (14.1%). Within three months of graduation, 93.1% received job offers and 88.2% accepted. While median salaries held steady, the overall job market saw some shifts, with a notable portion of graduates returning to pre-MBA companies or starting their own ventures.

Wharton MBA Program Deadlines & Intakes

Application Deadlines (for 2025-2026 Academic Year Entry) ✍️
 

Applications are due by 5:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on the deadline day.

  • Round 1
    • Application Due: September 3, 2025
    • Decision Released: December 10, 2025
  • Round 2
    • Application Due: January 6, 2026
    • Decision Released: March 31, 2026
  • Round 3
    • Application Due: April 1, 2026
    • Decision Released: May 12, 2026
  • Deferred Admissions Round (Moelis Advance Access Program)
    • Application Due: April 22, 2026
    • Decision Released: July 1, 2026

Wharton MBA - Application Requirements

Applying to the Wharton MBA program requires a comprehensive set of documents and submissions to provide a holistic view of your profile. Here's a checklist of what's generally required:

  • Online Application Form: This is where you'll provide your personal, academic, and professional background information.
  • Transcripts:
    • Upload unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate academic institutions attended.
    • If admitted, you will need to submit official transcripts to verify the information.
  • GMAT or GRE Score:
    • Submit valid scores from either the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Wharton accepts both the older version and the Focus Edition of the GMAT, and at-home/online tests.
    • Ensure your scores are valid within the specified testing dates for your application round.
  • English Language Test Scores (if applicable):
    • Results from the TOEFL iBT, PTE, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test are required if English was not the language of instruction at your undergraduate or graduate institution.
    • Waivers may be granted if you earned a degree from an institution where English was the language of instruction.
  • Resume:
    • A concise, one-page resume (PDF) highlighting your functional job skills, breadth and depth of experience, leadership, management skills, and potential for growth. Focus on accomplishments and impact.
  • Essays:
    • Essay 1 (Two short-form questions):
      • What is your immediate post-MBA professional goal? (50 words)
      • What are your career goals for the first three to five years after completing your MBA, and how will those build towards your long-term professional goals? (150 words)
    • Essay 2 (Long-form essay):
      • Taking into consideration your background – personal, professional, and/or academic – how do you plan to add meaningful value to the Wharton community? (350 words)
    • Reapplicant Essay (if applicable): Required for those who have applied previously, detailing reflection and growth since the last application (250 words).
    • Optional Essay: For addressing any extenuating circumstances or providing additional context (500 words).
  • Letters of Recommendation:
    • Two letters of recommendation are required, preferably from a current or former supervisor who can speak to your performance in a work setting, leadership, teamwork, and analytical skills.
    • Recommenders will answer specific questions about your performance, potential, and contributions.
  • Application Fee:
    • A non-refundable application fee is required. Fee waivers may be available for eligible applicants (e.g., U.S. military service members, employees of some non-profit organizations).

Some of Our Students Who Got Admitted to Top MBA Programs

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MBA Class of 2024 Admit

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Top‑25 US MBA admit

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Foster Business School, MBA Class of 2024

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Cornell Tech MBA (GMAT waiver + $15K scholarship)

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Cornell Johnson MBA with $60K scholarship

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Cornell Johnson MBA (with $60K scholarship)