Requirements
Participation in a Harvard Business School Executive Education program is a collaborative effort among the school, the applicant, and the sponsoring organization.
We look for professionals who have already demonstrated business talent and leadership potential. Although there are no formal education requirements, admissions is a selective process based on professional achievement and organizational responsibility. To ensure a high-impact learning experience for all program participants, we select candidates from a strong pool of diverse industries, countries, and experiences.
HBS Executive Education programs enrich both participants and their sponsoring organizations, and require full commitment from each party. While participants devote time and intellect to the learning experience, sponsoring organizations agree to relieve individuals of their work responsibilities during the program.
We deliberately design our programs to encourage individual growth and to foster productive interaction among participants. For that reason, proficiency in written and spoken English is essential. If English is your second language, or if you have less than one year's experience working in an English-speaking environment, HBS requires a brief statement documenting proficiency in English-language skills, both conversational and written. This may include a list of the English-language certification programs that you have completed; the degrees you have earned at English-speaking colleges and universities; or the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam. The Admissions Committee also may request a telephone interview.
Program-Specific Requirements
Each Executive Education program establishes its own admissions requirements. Visit the specific program pages to access the necessary application forms. Detailed instructions are included on each form.
Sponsoring Statements
Several programs require the submission of a separate Sponsoring Statement. Completed by the sponsoring executive within your company, this statement provides the Admissions Committee with a better understanding of your background, roles, and potential as a leader. Sponsoring Statements must be completed for the following programs:
- Advanced Management Program
- General Management Program
- Program for Leadership Development
- High Potential Leadership Program
- Leadership Reflections and Insights
Team Attendance
Many programs are appropriate for individuals as well as teams of executives from the same organization. When colleagues attend a program together, the organization benefits from shared knowledge and a shared vision that enhance participants' ability to pursue business goals as a team, effect critical transformations, and transfer knowledge. Individual program descriptions state whether the program is particularly suited for teams. HBS client service specialists are available to advise on optimal team composition. The application for each team member must be received before the team's materials are reviewed by the Admissions Committee.