- 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. We offer three simple ways to apply:
- Complete the online application available on each program's page of 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 a printed application via email by contacting our client service specialists or via mail by completing our online form for brochure and application requests, and submit the completed application by mail or fax as instructed on the application.
If you have questions, please feel free to contact our client service specialists at:
- HBS Campus – 1-800-427-5577 (outside the U.S., dial +1-617-495-6555)
- Harvard Center Shanghai – +86-21-3852 3888
- India Research Center – +91-22-2493 4510
- 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. For most programs, proficiency in written English is required, and participants must be fluent in the English language to take an active part in fast-moving discussions. (However, please note that some programs are offered in both English and Chinese.)
For each program, we carefully select a cross-section of world-class leaders from around the globe who have different backgrounds and experiences. This diversity 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 typically fund the cost of the program and agree to 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, he or she is involved in your learning and development, and will ensure that you will be free from your official duties during the program.
In addition, five programs require that the sponsor complete a Sponsoring Statement as part of the application process. These programs are the Advanced Management Program, General Management Program, Program for Leadership Development, High Potentials Leadership Program, and Leading with Impact. This Sponsoring Statement provides the Admissions Committee with a better understanding of your background, roles, and potential as a leader. Upon receipt of your application for one of these programs, 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 percent of Executive Education participants represent countries outside North America.
- 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.
- How do I check the status of my application?
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 schedule?
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, can 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 a variety of 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?
HBS campus programs – Citizens from Visa Waiver Program countries must apply for an authorization to travel to the United States using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Other foreign citizens will need a nonimmigrant visa. For more information about visa and passport requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State.
India programs – All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad. The Indian visa is issued under the Government of India's Foreigners Act. For more information about visa and passport requirements, visit http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/.
China and Europe programs – Please check with your local consulate for visa requirements.
- What is included in the program fee?
The program fee includes tuition, single-occupancy 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, electronic bank wire transfer, or credit card (American Express, MasterCard, Visa). Detailed information regarding payment will be included with your invoice.
- 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 15 to 30 days before the program start date are subject to a fee of one-half of the program fee. Requests for cancellation or deferral received within 14 days of the program start date are subject to full payment of the program fee.
- Is financial aid available?
Financial assistance is not available for HBS Executive Education programs.