FAQs

If you have additional questions, please contact the Office of Graduate Programs at 202.994.1212 or gwmba@gwu.edu.

What are the prerequisites for the Global MBA?

There are no prerequisites for the Global MBA; however, applicants with weak quantitative skills may want to consider taking a pre-calculus or calculus course after being admitted. The Global MBA program also has workshops for new students which will increase the quantitative ability level in preparation for the MBA curriculum.

Is it possible to be admitted for the Spring Semester?

No. The Global MBA admits new students for the Fall Semester only.

Is the Global MBA accredited?

Yes. The School of Business is accredited by AACSB International, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. AACSB International is the premier accrediting agency for bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs in business administration and accounting.

When do classes begin?

The program begins for all students in mid-August with the MBA Institute, which provides quantitative review, career workshops, communication & teamwork skill development, and guidance on living in Washington, DC. International students are expected to arrive in early August to attend the International Student Orientation before the start of MBA Institute. Specific dates and a schedule will be announced to new students after the Declaration of Intent, tuition deposit, and enrollment fee have been received.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Students complete 57 credit hours. Most students finish the program in 21 months, although it can be completed in 16 or 18 months. To accelerate studies, students may take classes during the summer semester. Students typically participate in an internship during the summer between the first and second years of study.

Can I waive any classes or transfer graduate credit?

Students may waive up to six credits / transfer in up to six credits by submitting a syllabus and transcript for relevant graduate coursework. Students must have earned a grade of "B" or higher in the course, and the course must have been taken within the five years prior to students' enrollment in the Global MBA Program. Students may also take proficiency exams in select subjects prior to the start of the program. Waivers are not granted for undergraduate coursework or undergraduate degrees.

What is the teaching methodology?

Courses are highly integrated and taught using the team-based approach. Most assigned work is completed in four-to-five person teams. Depending on the subject, faculty utilize some combination of lectures, case method, project work, simulations, client work, and group papers and presentations. We believe this is the most effective way for students to gain a practical education.

Is work experience a requirement for applying?

Professional work experience is highly recommended, and a minimum of two years is strongly preferred. New students have typically four year or more of prior full-time professional work experience. Students come from a variety of professional backgrounds, including multinational corporations, non-governmental organizations, small businesses, non-profit organizations, and the military.

May I be waived from the GMAT/GRE requirement?

We do not waive the GMAT/GRE requirement for applicants.

If I am admitted, can I defer admission?

Applicants may defer admission for one year, but the admissions committee does not guarantee admission or any scholarships for the following year.

How do I apply for scholarships?

The admissions committee awards merit-based scholarships based primarily on undergraduate coursework, GPA, quantity & quality of work experience, and GMAT/GRE scores. Scholarships cover tuition only and are generally awarded in credit increments (for example, six credit hours). No separate application is required to be considered for merit-based scholarships.

In addition to merit scholarships, we offer National Society of Hispanic MBA (NSHMBA), National Black MBA Association- DC Chapter (NBMBAA), and Teach for America (TFA) scholarships. Anyone interested in applying for these awards should contact MBA Admissions after submitting the application to learn more about application requirements.

We encourage applicants to apply early for the greatest opportunity for admission and scholarships.

What kind of jobs do GMBA graduates go into?

Global MBA students move into an exciting variety of positions after their graduation from the program. Please see the employment profiles compiled by our Career Center to learn about the functions and industries our students go into, as well as salary information and companies that recruit our students.

International Applicants

I have lived in the U.S. for many years. Must I take the TOEFL or IELTS?

Only applicants who have completed a degree in a country in which English is the official language are exempt from the TOEFL or IELTS. This rule applies regardless of citizenship and/or residency.

What is the minimum TOEFL or IELTS score for international applicants?

The minimum TOEFL score is 100 (internet-based test) or 600 (paper-based test). The minimum IELTS score is 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0. Test date must be within past two years. No exceptions are made to these minimum requirements.