FAQs

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. Please note: The Professional MBA program cannot sponsor an I-20 for an F-1 student visa.

Can I transfer from the Accelerated MBA Program into the Professional Program and vice versa?

The cohort structure of the Accelerated MBA Program does not allow students to transfer in to the program. If necessary, and at the discretion of the program director, Accelerated MBA students may transfer into the Professional MBA program.

Can I take an elective course in another GW school such as the Elliott School of International Affairs or Columbian College of Arts and Sciences?

You may choose 200-level electives from any program within the School of Business, as long as the course relates to your program of study. You may take up to six graduate-level credit hours outside of the School without special petition to the Professional MBA director (if transfer courses from another institution are not being applied to your elective requirements).

Can I waive any classes or transfer graduate credit?

Students may waive up to six credits and transfer in up to six credits by submitting a syllabus and transcript for relevant graduate coursework. In general, 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 Professional 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. Please contact MBA Admissions for the full transfer/waiver credit policy.

What is the difference between waiving a course and transferring a course?

Only core courses can be waived based upon previous graduate-level coursework taken within five years of starting the program. A grade of "B" or better is required, and the course must be completed within two years of enrolling in the program. However, each course may have separate waiver requirements; so please refer to the full transfer/waiver policy for more detailed policies. Transfer credits will only be accepted from AACSB accredited schools.

Professional MBA students may waive a maximum of four core courses or six credits without substitution requirements. If more than four courses are waived, elective courses must be substituted. Six transfer credits may count toward electives.

What is the Consortium Program?

The George Washington University is a member of the Consortium of Universities of the Metropolitan Washington Area. The following 10 universities coordinate the use of facilities: the American University, Catholic University of America, Gallaudet University, George Mason University, The George Washington University, Georgetown University, Howard University, Marymount University, the University of the District of Columbia, and the University of Maryland.

Can I take a course in the Consortium?

GW MBA students may take courses at any member institution with the approval of the program director. Students must be in good academic standing and may enroll in up to six hours of approved courses through the Consortium. If the same course is offered on the GW campus during the same semester, approval will not be granted. Students register and pay tuition at GW for all Consortium courses, but course fees are paid to the visiting institution. Procedures for Consortium registration are detailed by the Office of the Registrar.

What is a leave of absence?

A student who must interrupt active pursuit of the MBA degree for a semester or more may petition the program director for a leave of absence of up to one year. A student who discontinues active enrollment in the academic program without being granted a leave of absence must apply for readmission and will be subject to the new regulations and requirements. Students granted a leave of absence must complete the degree within five years, including the leave of absence.