Admissions Process
Researching Our Program Offerings
Offered in both virtual and in-person formats, our executive development programs enable you to deepen your knowledge, broaden your skill set, and collaborate with a global network of peers. To compare and narrow down your program options, utilize the Program Finder tool on our website or consult with our Program Advising team for a personalized recommendation.
Submitting an Application
Before you submit your application, please be sure you have answered all the questions thoroughly and have printed or saved your application for your records. Your application and all required documents must be received before you will be considered for program admission. While each program has its own distinct application, view this sample version to help you prepare. Some programs require additional supporting materials, so please read the admissions requirements for your selected program thoroughly.
Notification
All applications will be acknowledged via email. All application information is strictly confidential. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an email acknowledgment, please contact the Admissions Committee:
Email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu
Phone: +1.617.495.6226
Going Through the Admissions Process
For most programs, the Admissions Committee meets monthly and admits qualified candidates on a rolling, space-available basis. Select programs have application deadlines, as noted on the program page on our website. For all programs, early application is strongly encouraged. To view your application in progress and track your admissions status, log in to your account home page.
In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
Payment
Upon acceptance into a program, you'll receive an electronic invoice from our Finance department that is payable within 30 days of receipt. Please review the payment policies and the steps for cancelling or deferring participation.
Enhancing Your Program Experience
Our Program Delivery team will be your primary point of contact before and during the program. About three weeks before your program starts, you will receive a link to the Learning Community, which gives you access to relevant case studies and a detailed program schedule.
Continuing the Conversation
Once you complete a program, you become part of the extended HBS Executive Education community. Our Program Advising team will continue to be a resource as you consider future programs at HBS.
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Researching Our Program Offerings
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Offered in both virtual and in-person formats, our executive development programs enable you to deepen your knowledge, broaden your skill set, and collaborate with a global network of peers. To compare and narrow down your program options, utilize the Program Finder tool on our website or consult with our Program Advising team for a personalized recommendation.
Before you submit your application, please be sure you have answered all the questions thoroughly and have printed or saved your application for your records. Your application and all required documents must be received before you will be considered for program admission. While each program has its own distinct application, view this sample version to help you prepare. Some programs require additional supporting materials, so please read the admissions requirements for your selected program thoroughly.
Notification
All applications will be acknowledged via email. All application information is strictly confidential. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an email acknowledgment, please contact the Admissions Committee:
Email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu
Phone: +1.617.495.6226For most programs, the Admissions Committee meets monthly and admits qualified candidates on a rolling, space-available basis. Select programs have application deadlines, as noted on the program page on our website. For all programs, early application is strongly encouraged. To view your application in progress and track your admissions status, log in to your account home page.
In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
Payment
Upon acceptance into a program, you'll receive an electronic invoice from our Finance department that is payable within 30 days of receipt. Please review the payment policies and the steps for cancelling or deferring participation.
Our Program Delivery team will be your primary point of contact before and during the program. About three weeks before your program starts, you will receive a link to the Learning Community, which gives you access to relevant case studies and a detailed program schedule.
Once you complete a program, you become part of the extended HBS Executive Education community. Our Program Advising team will continue to be a resource as you consider future programs at HBS.
-
Submitting an Application
-
Offered in both virtual and in-person formats, our executive development programs enable you to deepen your knowledge, broaden your skill set, and collaborate with a global network of peers. To compare and narrow down your program options, utilize the Program Finder tool on our website or consult with our Program Advising team for a personalized recommendation.
Before you submit your application, please be sure you have answered all the questions thoroughly and have printed or saved your application for your records. Your application and all required documents must be received before you will be considered for program admission. While each program has its own distinct application, view this sample version to help you prepare. Some programs require additional supporting materials, so please read the admissions requirements for your selected program thoroughly.
Notification
All applications will be acknowledged via email. All application information is strictly confidential. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an email acknowledgment, please contact the Admissions Committee:
Email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu
Phone: +1.617.495.6226For most programs, the Admissions Committee meets monthly and admits qualified candidates on a rolling, space-available basis. Select programs have application deadlines, as noted on the program page on our website. For all programs, early application is strongly encouraged. To view your application in progress and track your admissions status, log in to your account home page.
In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
Payment
Upon acceptance into a program, you'll receive an electronic invoice from our Finance department that is payable within 30 days of receipt. Please review the payment policies and the steps for cancelling or deferring participation.
Our Program Delivery team will be your primary point of contact before and during the program. About three weeks before your program starts, you will receive a link to the Learning Community, which gives you access to relevant case studies and a detailed program schedule.
Once you complete a program, you become part of the extended HBS Executive Education community. Our Program Advising team will continue to be a resource as you consider future programs at HBS.
-
Going Through the Admissions Process
-
Offered in both virtual and in-person formats, our executive development programs enable you to deepen your knowledge, broaden your skill set, and collaborate with a global network of peers. To compare and narrow down your program options, utilize the Program Finder tool on our website or consult with our Program Advising team for a personalized recommendation.
Before you submit your application, please be sure you have answered all the questions thoroughly and have printed or saved your application for your records. Your application and all required documents must be received before you will be considered for program admission. While each program has its own distinct application, view this sample version to help you prepare. Some programs require additional supporting materials, so please read the admissions requirements for your selected program thoroughly.
Notification
All applications will be acknowledged via email. All application information is strictly confidential. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an email acknowledgment, please contact the Admissions Committee:
Email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu
Phone: +1.617.495.6226For most programs, the Admissions Committee meets monthly and admits qualified candidates on a rolling, space-available basis. Select programs have application deadlines, as noted on the program page on our website. For all programs, early application is strongly encouraged. To view your application in progress and track your admissions status, log in to your account home page.
In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
Payment
Upon acceptance into a program, you'll receive an electronic invoice from our Finance department that is payable within 30 days of receipt. Please review the payment policies and the steps for cancelling or deferring participation.
Our Program Delivery team will be your primary point of contact before and during the program. About three weeks before your program starts, you will receive a link to the Learning Community, which gives you access to relevant case studies and a detailed program schedule.
Once you complete a program, you become part of the extended HBS Executive Education community. Our Program Advising team will continue to be a resource as you consider future programs at HBS.
-
Enhancing Your Program Experience
-
Offered in both virtual and in-person formats, our executive development programs enable you to deepen your knowledge, broaden your skill set, and collaborate with a global network of peers. To compare and narrow down your program options, utilize the Program Finder tool on our website or consult with our Program Advising team for a personalized recommendation.
Before you submit your application, please be sure you have answered all the questions thoroughly and have printed or saved your application for your records. Your application and all required documents must be received before you will be considered for program admission. While each program has its own distinct application, view this sample version to help you prepare. Some programs require additional supporting materials, so please read the admissions requirements for your selected program thoroughly.
Notification
All applications will be acknowledged via email. All application information is strictly confidential. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an email acknowledgment, please contact the Admissions Committee:
Email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu
Phone: +1.617.495.6226For most programs, the Admissions Committee meets monthly and admits qualified candidates on a rolling, space-available basis. Select programs have application deadlines, as noted on the program page on our website. For all programs, early application is strongly encouraged. To view your application in progress and track your admissions status, log in to your account home page.
In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
Payment
Upon acceptance into a program, you'll receive an electronic invoice from our Finance department that is payable within 30 days of receipt. Please review the payment policies and the steps for cancelling or deferring participation.
Our Program Delivery team will be your primary point of contact before and during the program. About three weeks before your program starts, you will receive a link to the Learning Community, which gives you access to relevant case studies and a detailed program schedule.
Once you complete a program, you become part of the extended HBS Executive Education community. Our Program Advising team will continue to be a resource as you consider future programs at HBS.
-
Continuing the Conversation
-
Offered in both virtual and in-person formats, our executive development programs enable you to deepen your knowledge, broaden your skill set, and collaborate with a global network of peers. To compare and narrow down your program options, utilize the Program Finder tool on our website or consult with our Program Advising team for a personalized recommendation.
Before you submit your application, please be sure you have answered all the questions thoroughly and have printed or saved your application for your records. Your application and all required documents must be received before you will be considered for program admission. While each program has its own distinct application, view this sample version to help you prepare. Some programs require additional supporting materials, so please read the admissions requirements for your selected program thoroughly.
Notification
All applications will be acknowledged via email. All application information is strictly confidential. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an email acknowledgment, please contact the Admissions Committee:
Email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu
Phone: +1.617.495.6226For most programs, the Admissions Committee meets monthly and admits qualified candidates on a rolling, space-available basis. Select programs have application deadlines, as noted on the program page on our website. For all programs, early application is strongly encouraged. To view your application in progress and track your admissions status, log in to your account home page.
In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
Payment
Upon acceptance into a program, you'll receive an electronic invoice from our Finance department that is payable within 30 days of receipt. Please review the payment policies and the steps for cancelling or deferring participation.
Our Program Delivery team will be your primary point of contact before and during the program. About three weeks before your program starts, you will receive a link to the Learning Community, which gives you access to relevant case studies and a detailed program schedule.
Once you complete a program, you become part of the extended HBS Executive Education community. Our Program Advising team will continue to be a resource as you consider future programs at HBS.
How do I apply to a program?
Each HBS Executive Education program has its own set of admissions criteria. A general overview of the admission requirements is available.
In order to apply to a program, you’ll need to submit an online application. To access a specific program's application, visit the Apply/Log-In page and select the program and session that interests you. Individual program applications are also accessible by clicking Apply within the program's pages. Please note that if you have not applied to a program previously, you'll need to create an account. (Alternatively, you can download a PDF application and submit the application via mail or email.)
To learn more, contact our Program Advising team at:
- HBS Campus: 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S.: +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 all 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 high-potential 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, some programs require a letter of reference.
Which programs require a letter of reference?
The following programs require a letter of reference as part of the application process:
- Advanced Management Program
- General Management Program
- High Potentials Leadership Program
- Program for Leadership Development
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—India
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—Middle East
- Senior Executive Program—Africa
The letter of reference must be completed by a senior executive within your organization, a board member of your company, or a Harvard Business School graduate familiar with your role and responsibilities who can provide a detailed firsthand account. This letter of reference provides the Admissions Committee with a better understanding of your background and your potential as a leader. The Admissions Committee will begin its review upon receipt of both the application and the letter of reference.
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?
The Admissions Committee meets monthly, and admits qualified candidates on a rolling, space available basis. Early application is strongly encouraged.
How do I check the status of my application?
To check the status of a current application, please log in to your HBS Executive Education account. You can also contact us by email: exed_admissions@hbs.edu or by phone at: +1.617.495.6226.
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?
Yes. Admission to HBS Executive Education programs is highly 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 reapply in the future or to consider other HBS Executive Education programs that may be of interest.
If I do not live in the United States, will I need a visa to attend Executive Education
programs?
If you live outside the United States, please review the information for International Applicants.
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 (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover). Detailed information regarding payment will be included with your invoice.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations 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 received 15 to 30 days before the program start date are subject to a fee of 50 percent of the program fee. Requests for cancellation received within 14 days of the program start date are subject to full payment of the program fee.
Is financial aid available?
No. Financial assistance is not available for HBS Executive Education programs.
What is your deferral policy?
Deferrals must be submitted in writing more than 30 days before the program start date. Due to program demand and the volume of preprogram preparation, deferrals received 15 to 30 days before the program start date are subject to a fee of 50 percent of the program fee. Requests for deferral received within 14 days of the program start date are subject to full payment of the program fee.
What constitutes alumni status?
A Harvard Business School alumnus/a is defined as any person receiving either a degree or a certificate of completion from Harvard Business School in a qualifying program.
Current HBS programs that grant alumni status include:
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Joint Program with Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (MS/MBA Biotechnology)
- Joint Program with Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Sciences (MS/MBA)
- Joint Program with Harvard Kennedy School (MPP/MBA and MBA-MPA/ID)
- Joint Program with Harvard Law School (JD/MBA)
- Joint Program with Harvard Medical School (MD/MBA)
- Master in Business Administration (MBA)
- PhD in Business Economics (PhDBE or PhDBusEc)
- PhD in Information, Technology, and Management (PhDITM)
- PhD in Organizational Behavior (PhDOB)
- PhD in Science, Technology, and Management (PhDSTM)
Certificate Programs
- Advanced Management Program (AMP)
- General Management Program (GMP)
- Owner/President Management Program (OPM)
- President's Program in Leadership (PPL)
- Program for Leadership Development and completion of additional program(s) equaling 10 PLDA Points (PLDA)
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—China (SELPCH)
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—India (SELPI)
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—Middle East (SELPME)
Retired HBS programs which granted alumni status (all attendees are members of the current HBS alumni community):
- Individuals in the MBA Class of 2006 or earlier having completed one year of the HBS MBA program
- Advanced Management Program/International Senior Management Program (AMP/ISMP)
- Central and Eastern European Teachers' Program (ETP)
- China CEO Renewal Program (CCRP)
- China Senior Executive Renewal Program (CSERP)
- Doctor of Commercial Science (DCS)
- The General Manager Program™ (TGMP)
- Harvard-Radcliffe Program in Business Administration (HRPBA)
- Industrial Administrator (IA)
- International Senior Management Program (ISMP)
- International Teachers' Program (ITP)
- Middle-Management Program (MMP)
- Mid-Officer Certificate (MOC)
- PhD in Decision Sciences (PhDDS)
- Program for Global Leadership™ (PGL)
- Program for Management Development (PMD)
- Programs for Health System Management (PHSM)
- Senior Executive Program for the Middle East (SEPME)
- Senior Executive Programme for Africa (SEPSA)
- Veterans' Certificate (VC)
- Visitor for Individual Studies (VIS)
How can I verify my alumni status?
To confirm your status as an HBS alumnus/a, first review the definition of alumni status. If you still are uncertain and have questions, you may contact our Executive Education Program Advising team at 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).
Are all HBS Executive Education programs eligible for the alumni discount?
The 30-percent alumni discount applies to all HBS Executive Education programs, both in-person and virtual, with the exception of these courses:
- Alumni Reunions
- Global Alumni Leadership Summit
- Leading Change and Organizational Renewal (Stanford campus)
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—China
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—India
- Senior Executive Leadership Program—Middle East
- Senior Executive Program—Africa
- Strategic Nonprofit Management—India
- Value Creation Through Effective Boards
- Programs created exclusively for an organization or association
Can I apply the alumni discount to an HBS custom program for my organization?
Programs created exclusively for an organization or association do not qualify for the alumni discount.
Do I need to note my alumni status on the application in order to receive this discount?
Your application does not require any alumni reference. The 30-percent discount will automatically be reflected in the invoice you receive upon acceptance into the program.
When does my alumni status begin?
Participants of Executive Education programs that grant alumni status can access alumni privileges upon completion of their qualifying program. If the qualifying program has multiple modules or units, you must complete the entire program before accessing alumni privileges. At the end of the program, you will be given a certificate of completion.
Does Executive Education alumni status mean I have a Harvard Business School degree?
No. Completion of select Executive Education programs earns participants a certificate of completion and alumni status, but does not confer a degree like our MBA, MS/MBA, PhD, and DBA programs.
Can my alumni discount be transferred to a family member or colleague who does not
have HBS alumni status?
No. This discount benefit is exclusive to HBS alumni, nontransferable, and subject to standard HBS Executive Education cancellation and admissions policies.