Executive Education

How do I apply to a program?

Each HBS Executive Education program has its own set of admissions criteria. A general overview of the application and admission procedure is available. There are three simple ways to apply:

• Complete the online application available on each program's page with the Executive Education website
• Download a printable PDF application from the specific program page and submit the completed application by mail or fax as instructed on the application
• Request an application by mail at request brochures and applications or by email at executive_education@hbs.edu, and submit the completed application by mail or fax as instructed on the application

For additional questions, please feel free to contact our course consultants at
1-800-HBS-5577 (outside the U.S., dial +1-617-495-6555).

Is there an application fee?

There is no fee for applying to an HBS Executive Education program.

What are your admissions requirements?

To ensure a rich learning experience for participants, admission to Executive Education programs is selective and based on professional achievement and organizational responsibility. Proficiency in written English is required, and participants must be fluent in the English language to take an active part in fast-moving discussions.

For each program, we carefully select a cross-section of world-class leaders from around the globe who have diverse backgrounds and experiences. This approach enables participants to enhance their management effectiveness by leveraging the experience of their peers and acquiring a new level of cultural sensitivity.

In addition, most programs require participants to have full company sponsorship.

What is company sponsorship?

For most programs, participants must be sponsored by their current employers. Sponsoring companies agree to assume all fees, provide for reasonable expenses, and relieve participants of their work responsibilities for the length of the program.

What is the process for obtaining sponsorship from my company?

You should identify a senior executive within your company to serve as your company sponsor. This individual should be named on your application. As sponsor, they are responsible for ensuring that the company will pay the program fee and that you will be free from your official duties during the program.

In addition, four programs require that the sponsor completes a Sponsoring Statement as part of the application process. These programs are: the Advanced Management Program, the General Manager Program, the Program for Leadership Development, and the High Potential Leadership Program. This statement provides the Admissions Committee with a better understanding of your background, roles, and potential as a leader. Upon receipt of your application, the Admissions Committee will email the executive a link to an online Sponsoring Statement form. This Sponsoring Statement must be completed before the committee will review your application.

Are the programs open to participants from outside North America?

Yes, executives attend from around the globe. Approximately 52% of Executive Education participants represent countries outside of North America. Visit the HBS Advantage section of this website to learn more about the participant mix.

How long does it take to process my application?

For most programs, the Admissions Committee begins reviewing applications four months prior to the program start date. Once the review process has begun, applicants are notified via email regarding Admissions Committee decisions within three weeks.

To check the status of a current application, please contact us by email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu, phone: +1-617-495-6226, or fax: +1-617-496-1731.

When will I receive the program itinerary?

Approximately three weeks prior to the start of the program, you will receive a packet of preliminary information, including a detailed schedule, case readings, and assignments for the first few days of the program.

If I am not accepted into a program, should I apply again for a future session?

Admission to HBS Executive Education programs is very competitive, as class size is tightly controlled. In addition, we work to ensure that the class roster includes participants from many industries, countries, and backgrounds. For those reasons, we encourage you to re-apply in the future, or consider other Executive Education programs that may be of interest.

If I do not live in the U.S., will I need a visa to attend Executive Education programs?

Many Canadian citizens and many citizens from Visa Waiver Program countries can come to the U.S. without a visa if they meet certain requirements. Other foreign citizens will need a nonimmigrant visa. For more information about visa and passport requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State.

What is included in the program fee?

The program fee includes tuition; single-occupancy, on-campus accommodations; most meals; and all program materials. Incidentals, such as dry cleaning, entertainment, phone bills, and the like, are not included in the program fee.

When is payment due?

Payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date or upon receipt of the invoice if admission is within 30 days prior to the start of the Program.

What types of payment are accepted?

Payment can be made by company check or electronic bank wire transfer. Please forward your organization's check, payable to Harvard Business School, along with your invoice to Harvard Business School, Financial Office, Soldiers Field, Boston, MA 02163 U.S. Information regarding payment by bank wire transfer will be included with your invoice. Credit cards are not accepted for payment of the program fee.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations or deferrals must be submitted in writing more than 30 days before the program start date to receive a full refund. Due to program demand and the volume of preprogram preparation, cancellations or deferrals received 14 to 30 days before the program start date are subject to a fee of one-half of the program fee. Requests received within 14 days of the program start date are subject to full payment of the program fee. One transfer to a subsequent program offering within 12 months is permitted. Requests to transfer must be submitted before the program start date.

Is financial aid available?

Financial assistance is not available for our Executive Education programs. Most programs require participants to have full company sponsorship. Sponsoring companies agree to assume all fees, provide for reasonable expenses.

How are the living quarters set up?

Are participants required to live on campus?

All Executive Education programs are residential, and participants are expected to live on the Harvard Business School campus. Residence halls are designed to foster out-of-class discussion and shared learning. You will receive your residence hall assignment prior to the start of your program.

Should I bring my laptop?

Every participant's room is equipped with a desktop computer and high-speed Internet access, which you can use for all program assignments. Each room also has both wired and wireless Internet access if you choose to bring your own laptop. Please remember to bring a voltage adapter if you are from outside the U.S.

Can I hook up to the Internet?

Every bedroom has a desktop computer equipped with high-speed Internet access. In addition, wireless Internet access is available throughout all HBS Executive Education facilities.

What can I expect on the first day?

On the opening day of your program, registration takes place in your residence hall. Most programs will have an opening session and dinner function that same evening. If your travel plans necessitate late arrival, please be sure to notify us so that alternate registration arrangements can be made for you.

What can I expect on the last day?

Most programs adjourn early in the afternoon of the final day to allow participants sufficient time for travel. Shuttle service to Logan International Airport is provided on the last day.

Are meals provided?

During your time on campus, most meals are provided in the Executive Education dining facility adjacent to the residence halls.

Are special meals available?

Participants with special dietary requirements are asked to contact us prior to their arrival.

Are accommodations available for extended visits or for family members?

Accommodations are not available on campus for early arrival, late departure, or family members. You may reserve a room at one of several hotels close to the HBS campus. They include, but are not limited to:

The Charles Hotel
One Bennett Street
Telephone: 1-800-882-1818 (outside the U.S., dial +1-617-864-1200)

DoubleTree Suites - Boston/Cambridge
400 Soldiers Field Road
Telephone: 1-800-222-8733 (outside the U.S., dial +1-617-783-0090)

The Inn at Harvard
1201 Massachusetts Avenue
Telephone: 1-800-458-5886 (outside the U.S., dial +1-617-491-2222)

What services are available for participants with disabilities?

What is the typical attire for an executive during a program?

For classes, "business casual" dress is customary. Business casual is defined as slacks/skirts/pants, open-necked shirts or blouses, and sweaters. The dress code is always informal after class and for dinner, unless otherwise announced. For dining out on Saturday or Sunday evenings, men may wish to bring a jacket and tie, and similarly appropriate attire for women, as some restaurants have a dress code. Participants who wish to participate in athletics should bring the appropriate attire.

How do I get to the School?

The Harvard Business School campus is located in Boston directly opposite Harvard Stadium and across the Charles River from Harvard University and Harvard Square. Visit the Harvard Business School website for a campus map and directions.

Public transportation and taxicabs are readily available from Logan International Airport, as well as the train station, South Station. In addition, executive car service can be pre-arranged by contacting one of many service providers including:

Boston Coach
Telephone: 1-800-672-7676 (outside the U.S., dial +1-617-387-7676)

Commonwealth Limousine Service
Telephone: 1-800-558-5466 (outside the U.S., dial +1-617-787-5575)

Will I need a car?

No, your intensive program schedule generally allows for little free time. However, there are several rental car agencies in the Boston/Cambridge area close to the HBS campus. If you bring a car, parking is available on campus in the HBS parking garage at no charge.

Where is the nearest international airport?

Logan International Airport is located approximately eight miles (12.8 km) from HBS. During rush hour, you should allow 45 minutes to one hour; other times of day, 20 to 30 minutes. Visit the Massachusetts Port Authority website for more airport information.

Where is the nearest train station?

South Station is located approximately six miles (9.6 km) from HBS. During rush hour, you should allow 25 to 35 minutes; other times of day, 15 to 20 minutes. Visit the Amtrak website for train schedules and rail information.

Discrimination

In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School is committed to providing an educational and a work environment free from any form of discrimination. The School will not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability. Discrimination is unlawful and inconsistent with the nature of an academic institution. Ms. Nancy Dellarocco has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies for Executive Education (+1-617-496-9753 or ndellarocco@hbs.edu.)

Drugs and Alcohol

In compliance with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Reauthorization Act, Harvard University has adopted and implemented a policy designed to address concerns about substance abuse. In the case of any violation of laws relating to controlled substances or alcohol, the University may take disciplinary action against violators, consistent with federal, state, and local laws. Treatment and counseling options are available to program participants at University Health Services in Holyoke Center.

Health Insurance

Participants must be covered individually with comprehensive health insurance for major medical emergencies and/or hospitalization. Please check with your organization's health insurance carrier prior to your arrival to ensure that you have adequate coverage in the United States. HBS is not responsible for medical fees incurred during a participant's stay in Boston.

Pets

HBS does not permit animals or pets in the residence halls, with the exception of service animals.

Security

It is important to remember that HBS is an urban campus. Individuals are urged to take all possible steps to safeguard themselves and their property. Please remember to take proper precautions to protect your valuables. Never leave cash lying around in your bedroom, and remember to close all doors securely as you enter and leave buildings. Do not leave valuables in the classroom or living group lounge in between classes or overnight. Harvard Business School is not responsible for any loss of personal property.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside any Harvard Business School building at any time.

How are the courses taught?

Pioneered by HBS, the case method is employed as the best tool to teach general management and leadership. Case studies offer multiple levels of learning, compelling participants to identify relevant issues and to apply practical business lessons to their own situations and companies. Executive Education participants benefit from an added dimension no other business school can offer: the opportunity to be taught by many of the faculty who wrote the cases and have personal knowledge of the problems and solutions presented. To learn more, watch our HBS Case Method in Action video.

What is the usual class size?

Most classes have between 40 and 80 executives.

How much time can I expect to spend on coursework each day?

On average, you will spend about six hours each day in the classroom—attending three to four different classes—although schedules may vary. The rule of thumb is that each class or case study requires two hours' advance preparation time.

Where do the programs take place?

Unless noted, programs are held on the Harvard Business School campus in Boston, Massachusetts.

Are Executive Education programs appropriate for HBS alumni?

Yes. Many HBS alumni find the programs to be a natural extension of their HBS education. Executive Education programs are based on groundbreaking research, the latest case studies, and the most current information. Programs are designed for senior executives interested in expanding their knowledge in key business areas. The School offers HBS alumni an exclusive 30-percent discount on most open-enrollment HBS Executive Education programs.

Does Harvard offer an Executive MBA?

HBS does not offer a part-time MBA program. The MBA program at HBS requires full-time attendance for two years. Executive Education programs are designed to help experienced executives and senior managers advance to the next stage of their career, guide their business through specific challenges, and become more effective leaders.

Are there distance learning opportunities available for executives?

Harvard Business School offers more than 60 Executive Education programs, all of which require campus residency. None of these programs are currently available in a distance-learning or an e-learning format. However, Harvard Business School Publishing offers a variety of interactive programs and performance support tools available online or on CD-ROM.

Do I earn college credit for attending an HBS Executive Education program?

Executive Education offers only non-degree programs. Certificates are awarded to participants upon completion of the program. However, participants who attend Executive Education's extended-length programs—the Advanced Management Program, the General Management Program, and the Owner/President Management program—receive Harvard alumni/ae status and benefits.

Does HBS Executive Education offer custom programs?

Yes. HBS develops standard-setting, customized learning experiences that create competitive advantage for leading global corporations. Visit custom programs for more details.

What is the frequency of executive education programs?

Most programs are offered only once a year, but there are several programs that occur more often.