Exploring the Wharton MBA: Class Profile, Eligibility, Fees & Career Prospects
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is renowned for its prestigious MBA program. It offers a rigorous curriculum, a diverse and accomplished student body, and a wealth of resources to help students succeed in their careers. This blog will explain the Wharton MBA in detail, including class profiles, fees and financing, eligibility criteria, programs and courses, employment upon graduation, and what makes Wharton unique.
Wharton MBA Snapshot
Program length | 20 months, including a 3.5-month summer internship (recommended) |
Tuition Fees
MBA 2024 |
$80,432 per academic year |
Program deadline
MBA 2026 |
Round 1 : September 6, 2023
Round 2: January 4, 2024 Round 3: April 2, 2024 |
Intakes | 1 |
Application fees | $275 |
Class Profile
Wharton MBA program attracts students from all over the world, creating a diverse and dynamic learning environment. Below is a snapshot of the class profile for the Wharton MBA:
Metric | Value |
Class Size | 897 |
Women | 52% |
International Students | 33% |
U.S. Students of Color | 43% |
Average GMAT Score | 733 |
GMAT Score Range (Middle 80%) | 700-770 |
Average Undergraduate GPA | 3.6 |
Average Work Experience | 5 years |
Countries Represented | 70+ |
Undergraduate Majors Represented | Business, Engineering, Economics, Humanities, and more |
Fees & Financing
Pursuing an MBA is a significant investment, and Wharton offers several options to help students finance their education.
Component | Cost (2024-2025 Academic Year) |
Tuition | $84,874 |
General Fee | $3,552 |
Clinical Fee | $664 |
Course Materials Fee | $1,048 |
Health Insurance | $4,034 |
Room and Board | $25,508 |
Books and Supplies | $2,400 |
Personal Expenses | $3,494 |
Transportation | $908 |
Total Estimated Cost | $127,716 |
Financing Options:
Fellowships and Scholarships: Wharton offers merit-based fellowships, need-based scholarships, and fellowships for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Loans: Domestic and international students can access various loan programs.
Employer Sponsorship: Some students receive financial support from their employers.
Eligibility Criteria for admission in Wharton MBA
To be considered for the Wharton MBA program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Academic Background: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.
Standardised Tests: Applicants are required to submit GMAT or GRE scores. While there is no minimum score requirement, competitive scores are preferred.
Work Experience: Though there is no strict minimum, having at least two years of full-time professional work experience is preferred. This experience helps demonstrate your career progression and readiness for an MBA program.
Essays: Applicants must submit personal essays. These essays should provide insights into your career goals, leadership experiences, and reasons for pursuing an MBA at Wharton.
Recommendations: Two letters of recommendation are required. These should come from professional contacts who can speak to your skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in the MBA program.
Interview: Interviews are conducted by invitation only. If selected, you will have the opportunity to discuss your application in more detail with a member of the admissions committee.
Additional Requirements:
- Resume: A current professional resume outlining your work experience and educational background.
- Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- English Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to provide TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate proficiency in English.
Program & Curriculum of Wharton MBA
Wharton MBA program offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum designed to develop leadership skills and business acumen.
Core Curriculum:
- Leadership Development: Courses and activities focusing on leadership skills.
- Foundational Courses: Covering finance, marketing, operations, and more.
Electives:
- Over 200 electives to choose from, allowing for specialisation in areas such as finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, healthcare management, and more.
Majors and Interdisciplinary Programs:
- Students can choose from 19 majors and various interdisciplinary programs to tailor their MBA experience.
Global Opportunities:
- Global Immersion Program
- International exchange programs
- Global consulting practicums
Employment Upon Graduation
Wharton graduates are highly sought after in the job market. Here’s a look at employment statistics for recent graduates:
Metric | Value |
Employment Rate (3 months post-graduation) | 98% |
Median Base Salary | $155,000 |
Median Signing Bonus | $30,000 |
Top Industries | Consulting, Finance, Technology |
Top Employers | McKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, The Boston Consulting Group, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Google, Amazon |
Why Wharton is Unique
The Wharton MBA stands out among business schools for several compelling reasons, making it a top choice for MBA candidates around the world.
1. Global Reach and Alumni Network:
Wharton boasts one of the largest and most influential alumni networks, with over 100,000 graduates worldwide.
2. Leadership and Innovation:
Wharton emphasises leadership development through its McNulty Leadership Program and various leadership ventures. The school is also known for its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, supported by resources like the Wharton Innovation Group and the Penn Wharton Entrepreneurship program.
3. Research Excellence:
With over 20 research centres and initiatives, Wharton is at the forefront of business research, providing students with access to cutting-edge knowledge and thought leadership.
4. Collaborative Culture:
Wharton fosters a collaborative environment where students learn from each other through team-based projects and a diverse student body.
5. Philadelphia Advantage:
Located in Philadelphia, Wharton offers a vibrant city experience with a rich history, diverse cultural scene, and many professional opportunities.
You can also Visit: Best MBA Colleges in USA, to know more about where to study in USA.
Conclusion
The Wharton MBA is a transformative experience, offering a world-class education, unparalleled resources, and a global network. With its rigorous curriculum, diverse student body, and emphasis on leadership and innovation, Wharton prepares its graduates to excel in their careers and make a meaningful impact on the world. If you are looking to elevate your career and join a community of driven and talented individuals, the Wharton MBA might be the right fit for you.