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Admissions FAQ

Foster EMBA has one intake per year, autumn quarter only. Applications are accepted throughout the year and processed on a rolling basis, with three priority deadlines: December 1 (Round 1), February 1 (Round 2), and April 1 (Round 3). Applicants with fewer than 10 years of full-time work experience, a GPA below a “B” average, and/or whose entire higher education experience occurred outside the United States are encouraged to apply through Round 1 or Round 2 to ensure fullest consideration.
Students are selected based on an overall evaluation of their applications. A significant factor in selection is an applicant’s potential contribution to the program based on professional and management experience. We require a minimum of seven years work experience. We seek to create a diverse student cohort that represents a wide range of geographic regions, industries, companies and job functions.
The 21-month program fee for students enrolling Autumn Quarter 2023 is anticipated to be $130,200* The program fee is equally divided among six academic quarters. The program fee includes: instructional fees; textbooks and course materials; meals and lodging at Fall Residence; class day parking; light breakfast, lunch and breaks on class days; and most on-the-ground expenses of the required International Immersion (second year).
* Fees are subject to approval by the University of Washington’s Board of Regents.
Travel to and from the Residence Sessions, incidental costs at each Residence Session (e.g., phone calls, laundry, souvenirs), travel to and from Seattle for Monthly Cohort students, and travel to and from the International Immersion.
An undergraduate degree is required for UW graduate admission. However, a non-degreed EMBA applicant with outstanding work experience may be considered. We evaluate candidates on a case-by-case basis and subject to approval by both the Foster faculty committee and the UW Graduate School.

Evaluations are generally based on applicant having an earned associate’s degree or above, extensive total work experience (15-20 years) including senior-level/executive roles, and demonstration of quantitative skills. Applicants without an undergraduate degree are required to take the GMAT or Executive Assessment (recommended).

Potential applicants without an undergraduate degree must consult with the EMBA Admission Director prior to applying. Inquiries may be sent to [email protected].

The GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment is not required for admission for applicants with an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited university who fulfill the UW Graduate School GPA admission requirement. (Note: Applicants without an undergraduate degree must take either the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (preferred). Please consult an EMBA admission staff member.) However, you should be aware that a number of preparation modules are required prior to Autumn Quarter classes.
Interviews are conducted after an initial review of your application and can take place several ways. The applicant can come to the UW campus, the interview can be completed over the telephone, or an interview can be scheduled with an EMBA Admissions representative at your location, if we are visiting that area.
Yes. All entering EMBA students are required to complete the EMBA Summer Workshop.
The EMBA Admission Committee evaluates each section of the application carefully. At times, we may refer to your undergraduate coursework for evidence of previous academic achievement or demonstration of strong quantitative skills. The Admission Committee understands that most applicants have been out of school for some time; so therefore, we will place more emphasis on an applicant’s career progression and achievements. We will also consider any post-secondary education experience as well.
There are a few primary sources of loans for Executive MBA students:

  • Federal Stafford Direct Loan
  • Graduate G-PLUS loans
  • Private MBA Tuition Loan
  • Veterans’ Affairs Education Benefits (depending upon eligibility)

For a list of private education loan and/or credit programs for students and their families visit www.washington.edu/students/osfa/gradaid/alt.loans.html.

No. Your earned degree is the Master of Business Administration from the University of Washington’s Michael G. Foster School of Business.