Admissions Requirements
Admissions Requirements
If you have a proven track record of business success and leadership potential, then HBS Executive Education may be right for you. Because we admit applicants on a rolling, space-available basis, you are encouraged to submit your application as soon as possible.
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.
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Admissions Requirements
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If you have a proven track record of business success and leadership potential, then HBS Executive Education may be right for you. Because we admit applicants on a rolling, space-available basis, you are encouraged to submit your application as soon as possible.
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.
Application DetailsCollapse All
Applicant qualificationsApplicant qualifications
Each Executive Education program has its own requirements. In general, you must have at least 10 years of work experience and be referred by a senior executive within your organization, a board member of your company, or a Harvard Business School graduate who is familiar with your role and responsibilities and can provide a detailed firsthand account. Although there are no formal educational requirements, the selective admissions process is based on professional achievement and organizational responsibility. Visit our specific program pages for additional details and application forms.
Language proficiencyLanguage proficiency
Because our programs are designed to encourage individual growth and foster productive interaction among participants, proficiency in written and spoken English is essential. However, please note that some China-focused programs are offered simultaneously in both English and Chinese.
If English is your second language, or if you have less than one year of experience working in an English-speaking environment, we require a brief statement documenting your conversational and written proficiency. On this statement, please include any English-language certification program credentials, degrees from English-speaking colleges and universities, or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam results. The Admissions Committee may also request an interview.
Community ValuesCommunity Values
Harvard Business School (HBS) is governed by a set of community values that foster honesty, respect for others, and accountability for one's actions. HBS considers these values essential for a safe and productive learning environment for all. Harvard Business School reserves the right to withdraw an offer of admission in the event that any part of your application contains misrepresentations, or if you engage in, or have engaged in, behavior that violates HBS Community Values.
Letter of referenceLetter of reference
Specific programs also require a letter of reference from a senior executive within the applicant's organization, a board member of the applicant's company, or a Harvard Business School graduate who is familiar with the applicant's role and responsibilities and can provide a detailed firsthand account. A letter of reference is required only for the following programs:
Team attendanceTeam attendance
Many programs are appropriate for individuals as well as teams of executives from the same organization. Team participation enhances your ability to develop business goals as a group, create strategies for implementing change, and transfer knowledge across the organization—while pursuing a shared corporate vision. Review the individual program descriptions to find out whether a program is well-suited for team participation, and contact the HBS Program Advising team for advice on optimal team composition. All team members’ applications must be received before the Admissions Committee makes an admissions decision.