Harvard Business School MBA
Harvard Business School is the graduate business school of Harvard University and one of the most prestigious and influential business schools in the world. Located on Harvard’s campus in Boston, HBS is renowned for pioneering the case method approach to management education and for its strong emphasis on leadership development. The school offers the Full Time MBA, Executive MBA through the Program for Leadership Development and other executive programs, as well as doctoral degrees including the DBA and PhD. With its global alumni network, world class faculty, and deep ties to industry, HBS prepares students to lead organizations at the highest levels.
Boston, MA 02163, USA
2024 Chat Transcript:
mfariha18
What kind of employers hire Harvard MBA student graduates? :)
mfariha18
Hello!
Harvard
Regarding Israeli-related topics, our case method prepares students for the challenges of leadership in the real world. Through the demanding, engaging, and proactive learning environment, it develops the knowledge, skills, and confidence to face the variety of difficult decisions that students will undoubtedly face throughout their careers. Israeli case methods can be taught by faculty. Learn more about our Israel Research Center here: https://www.hbs.edu/global/about/Pages/middle-east-and-north-africa.aspx.
Harvard
Hi Rotem, thank you for joining us! Applications are viewed individually.
Here is more information about our Student Services: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/student-services/Pages/physical-disabilities-and-learning-differences.aspx.
Harvard
Hi Moshe, as I mentioned to Amit, no one factor determines our Admissions decision as we assess holistically. As with any other factor in your application, you can explain how this event showcases our evaluation criteria (i.e. business-minded, leadership-focused and growth-oriented).
Ofir
What does HBS specializes at over other business schools?
Ofir
What is the faculty-to-student ratio?
Harvard
In each MBA class, we create a dynamic environment that mirrors the breadth and depth of our world economy. Our promise to our faculty and to every HBS student is to create a class of 900+ students who bring as many different experiences and perspectives as possible. Our students are: business-minded, leadership-focused, and growth-oriented. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about using business as a force for good – who strive to improve and transform companies, industries, and the world. We are looking for individuals who aspire to lead others toward making a difference in the world, and those who recognize that to build and sustain successful organizations, they must develop and nurture diverse teams. We are looking for individuals who desire to broaden their perspectives through creative problem solving, active listening, and lively discussion. Take a look at our first-year class profile: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/class-profile/Pages/default.aspx.
Spira
I have a low GPA due to some medical condition. Can I explain it somewhere in the essays?
Noam Finestone
Hi Harvard Admissions Team,
I have reviewed Harvard's website and brochure and have a few questions:
1. Coming from a fintech background, I am interested in learning about post-MBA career placement in this industry specifically.
2. One of the main reasons Harvard interests me is the summer internship and the opportunity to learn from industry leaders. What types of roles are typically available for these internships?
3. As making a social impact is highly important to me, I would like to know what kind of on-campus activities you have that support this goal.
4. Is there any difference in the chances of receiving a full scholarship between Round 1 and Round 2 of applications?
5. As you mention 15% of students have children, and I saw 65% live on campus, I would appreciate learning more about housing options for families on campus.
Thank you!
Noam Finestone
Harvard
Hi Amit, no one factor determines our Admissions decision as we assess holistically. As with any other factor in your application, you will need to explain what your motivations are to attend HBS.
Razi
Thank you, Alex!
ido
Hi, what entrepreneurship courses and programs do you offer? Do you encourage working on a venture while studying at your MBA program?
Rotem Eilat
Hello Harvard team, thank you for your time. I would like to ask a few questions about the MBA program: Firstly, if both my brother and I enroll, will our registrations be linked or considered jointly in any way? Secondly, what support does the program offer for individuals with ADHD to help them succeed in tests and coursework? Lastly, how are Israeli-related topics perceived and discussed on campus, particularly within the MBA faculty? thanks!
Moshe
I launched my own startup, but it failed, will it be taken as a negative point in my profile?
Harvard
For those wondering about the Application Process, I recommend taking a look here: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/application-process/Pages/default.aspx.
Harvard
Hi Romi, HBS accepts both GMAT and GRE with no preference for either exam.
Pranjalpathak07
@Harvard Admin can you please highlight the key aspects you look for in a candidate's application?
Harvard
Hi Razi, my name is Alex - it's great to e-meet you! There are many wonderful business schools to choose from and we have the utmost respect for each of them. Choosing the right MBA program is a deeply personal decision that depends on the individual's aspirations and needs. At HBS, our unique strengths include the immersive case method learning model, a focus on general management, a vibrant and diverse community, a dedicated residential campus, a dynamic entrepreneurship ecosystem, and an expansive global alumni network of over 90,000. These features are just the beginning of what HBS has to offer. We invite you to explore the distinctive aspects of HBS by attending an upcoming event, reading insights on our MBA Voice Blog, and following us on social media to learn about HBS for yourself.
Harvard
Interview invitations are extended about a month after a deadline. Invitations to interview are a positive indicator no matter when you receive them. After the completion of an interview, you will be notified of HBS' decision.
Amit
I have done an MBA already. Does this hurt my chance in any way?
Harvard
Hi Eran, thank you for joining us! We do not offer specializations. Students spend their first two terms completing the Required Curriculum with a "section" of 90 students. This group of students takes their 10 required cases classes in the first-year classes together and becomes an intellectual and social circle. In addition, the first-year students participate in FIELD Immersion. During the second year, students choose up to five courses per semester from a list of course offerings to build their elective curriculum of choice. The second year ends with a capstone program called BRIDGES.
Harvard
For those asking about what is valued in the application (i.e. GMAT/GRE scores, experience, Undergraduate/Graduate grades), don't self-select out because you think you're not what we want. You're here - you're bright and enterprising - just go for it. The most common issue that we hear about is that prospective students self-select out and choose not to apply. We encourage prospective students not to get overly fixated on certain parts of the application (i.e. test scores or GPA) as we view the applications in a very holistic manner. When reading applications, the biggest red flag we see is a lack of authenticity. We want prospective students to be their real, genuine selves in these applications – and not just tell us what they think we want to hear.
Ofir
What is the most popular major at HBS program?
Harvard
Hi Marc, you can see more about Pre-MBA Industry on our Class Profile here: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/class-profile/Pages/default.aspx. We value all Pre-MBA industries!
romi
hello, if i took the GMAT do i need to take the SAT ? and will it affect my application?
Harvard
Hi Romi, HBS offers a two-year, full-time MBA program with a general management curriculum focused on real-world practice. Becoming a student at HBS means joining a global community that propels lifelong learning and career support alongside peers, faculty, and staff who will both challenge you and cheer you on as you find and accelerate your path. I recommend attending an HBS Information Session to learn more: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/admissions-events/Pages/default.aspx.
Shalom
Hello, will my chances of acceptance depend majorly on my GMAT score?
Razi
Hi there, and thank you so much for taking the time to meet with us! May I ask for your name? I would love to hear about some unique elective courses or specializations that differentiate HBS from other top MBA programs.
Harvard
Hi Daniel, HBS Career & Professional Development (CPD) works to provide varied resources tailored to each individual's need. With our help, you'll not only have the tools you need for both your internship and full-time search, but also an array of resources geared toward your professional development post-HBS. Learn more about Career Resources here: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/career-path/Pages/career-development-resources.aspx.
Harvard
Hi Gal & Tohar, in short, no it does not affect your application. Take a look here for our Partner community at HBS: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/student-life/campus-community/Pages/partners.aspx. Partners are an intrinsic part of the HBS tapestry. About 30% of our students have partners. 15% have children. They are very much part of each section. They take part in every event and are welcome in class.
aviv
Hi, thank you for the chat. Would an MBA be relevant for someone (myself) striving to start a NGO/non-profit? As opposed to a proper business venture.
TOM
Are there “full ride” scholarships? How do you acquire them?
Amit
If I apply with low GMAT but improve it after the deadline, will you accept an update?
Eran
Hi! first of all thank you for hosting us in this event.
I would like to ask a few questions;
1. Do you have a specific MBA's programs in business administration (according to a certain specialization)? If so - does it exist in the field of hospitality and tourism/in the field of marketing/in other fields?
2. In addition, how long does the whole process take from the moment of selection to the moment of admission to the academic institution?
3. Is a GMAT test required to be admitted to your degree?
4. In addition, are there certain scholarships?
Harvard
Hi Ofek, there is not a difference between Round 1 and Round 2 applications. The deadlines are September 4th, 2024 for Round 1 and January 6th, 2025 for Round 2. If you apply in Round 1, you will be notified earlier than Round 2 applicants.
Noa Porat
Could you please share what types of work experiences or backgrounds your program typically values or prefers in MBA applicants?
Shalom
Same question, Regarding importance of GMAT score?
Harvard
Hi Noa, great question! The HBS MBA Program is designed for students who have full-time work experience before matriculation. On average, HBS students have five years of full-time work experience, but there is a wide range of experience levels. It is important for candidates to assess their own readiness when deciding to apply. There is no universal "right" time. The Admissions Board recommends applicants have at least two years of full-time work experience (prior to enrolling) to maximize the program's value.
TOM
Will a high GMAT score (750+) compensate for average undergraduate grades?
Harvard
Hi Ofir, great question! We have joint degree programs. Take a look here: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/academic-experience/joint-degree-programs/Pages/default.aspx.
Marc
Would candidates that have leadership backgrounds in SWE be disadvantaged compared to experience in consulting, VC/PE/IB ?
romi
Hi, thank you for hosting this event. I'm Romi, and I'd like to hear more about the MBA program and how it affects me as a candidate.
Daniel
What resources are provided for career development?
Harvard
Hi Ofek, you can absolutely still engage with us through our Admissions events. We aim to provide many virtual events throughout the year: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/admissions-events/Pages/default.aspx. You can filter on this page specifically for our online events.
Gal & Tohar
Hi, thank you for the opportunity to ask some important questions. Does applying as a couple affect our application?
Ofek
Is there any difference in Round 1 or Round 2 applications? Admission or scholarship wise?
Noa Porat
Hi! My name is Noa and I am interested in your MBA program. Are there specific prerequisites or preferred work experience requirements?
Harvard
Hi Oren and Miller, thanks for joining us today! We evaluate applications with a holistic approach. The application provides a snapshot of you and allows you to tell us your story outside of your test score, so please do not self-select out. We look at everything altogether as we consider your application within the context of our evaluation criteria (i.e. business-minded, leadership-focused and growth-oriented).
Miller Shemesh
How heavily is work experience weighted in the admissions process compared to other factors like GMAT score or GPA?
Ofir
Do you have any programs that are aimed at bachelor's degree graduates in mechanical engineering?
Harvard
For those interested, we encourage you to register for our Applying to HBS webinar series about the application process: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/admissions-events/Pages/default.aspx.
Harvard
Hi Itai, great question! In each MBA class, we create a dynamic environment that mirrors the breadth and depth of our world economy. Our promise to our faculty and to every HBS student is to create a class of 900+ students who bring as many different experiences and perspectives as possible. Our students are: business-minded, leadership-focused, and growth-oriented. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about using business as a force for good – who strive to improve and transform companies, industries, and the world. We are looking for individuals who aspire to lead others toward making a difference in the world, and those who recognize that to build and sustain successful organizations, they must develop and nurture diverse teams. We are looking for individuals who desire to broaden their perspectives through creative problem solving, active listening, and lively discussion. Take a look at our first-year class profile: https://www.hbs.edu/mba/admissions/class-profile/Pages/default.aspx.
Ofek
Hello, how would you advise candidates to get to know your MBA program and student community if they aren’t able to visit your campus?
Oren Maman
If my GMAT score is below your average, what steps can I take to strengthen my application in other areas?
Itai Grigoriu
Hello, thank you for hosting this event. I would like to hear more advice on what you are looking for in candidates
Harvard
Hi everyone, thank you for joining Harvard Business School today for the MBA Fair in Israel! If you have any questions about HBS, please be sure to ask them here. We look forward to speaking with you today.