Harvard Business School: Admission Process, Courses, Fees, and Scholarship Schemes

Harvard Business School (HBS) is known as one of the top business schools in the world. Its popular program is the two‑year MBA, which is taught through the case study method, where students solve real business problems. Along with the MBA, the school also offers doctoral programs. It provides executive education and online certificate courses as well. Admission to the MBA is very competitive and requires a bachelor’s degree, GMAT or GRE scores, transcripts, a resume, recommendations, and an essay. Selected candidates are invited for an interview, followed by a brief written reflection.

The annual tuition fee for the MBA program at Harvard Business School is about $78,700. When living costs are included, the total yearly expense comes to around $121,000 to $123,000. To help students manage these costs, HBS offers generous need‑based scholarships, and about half of the MBA class receives financial aid. In addition, external scholarships such as the Boustany Foundation MBA Scholarship and fellowships for nonprofit or entrepreneurial work provide extra support.

Harvard Business School MBA Application Deadline

Here are the application dates for Harvard Business School’s MBA program (Class of 2028, matriculating Fall 2026):

Academic Programs Offered at Harvard Business School

Harvard Business School offers MBA, Doctoral, and Executive Education. Check out the details below:

MBA program:

• Two-year, full-time residential program
• Famous for its case study method, where students learn by analyzing real business situations

Doctoral Programs:

• Seven full-time PhD tracks for those pursuing academic research

Executive Educations:

• Short-term programs for experienced professionals and organizations
• Helps leaders expand their global perspective and sharpen management skills

Online Courses:

• Certificate programs led by HBS faculty
• Focus on essential business concepts

Eligibility for MBA at Harvard Business School

These are the basic requirements for the MBA programs at Harvard Business School:

• Undergraduate Degree: You must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
• Work Experience: While there is no minimum requirement, most admitted students have 2 – 5 years of professional experience before applying.
• Standardized Tests: Applications must submit either GMAT or GRE scores. HBS accepts both.
• English Proficiency: If your undergraduate or graduate education was not conducted entirely in English, you must submit scores from TOEFL iBT, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo English Test.

Harvard Business School Admission Process

Here is a detailed overview of the Harvard Business School (HBS) MBA admission process:

Written Application:

You must submit your materials online by the official deadlines. The written application includes the following:

• Resume: Highlighting academic, professional, and leadership experiences.
• Transcripts: From all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
• GMAT or GRE Scores: Either test is accepted.
• TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Scores: Required for non-native English speakers (unless waived).
• Essay: HBS typically asks one open-ended question.
• Recommendations: Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic contacts.

Application Fee:

• A non-refundable application fee is required when submitting the application.
• Fee waivers are available for eligible candidates.

Interview Invitation:

• Selected applicants are invited to interview.
• Interviews are conducted by HBS staff and are required for admission.
• Candidates must also submit a post-interview reflection within 24 hours, summarizing their thoughts and clarifying points discussed.

Admission Decision:

• After the interview and reflection, the admissions committee reviews the full application.
• Decisions are released on the official notification dates.

Enrollment:

• Admitted students confirm their place by submitting a deposit.
• International students must also complete visa requirements.

Apply for the MBA Program at Harvard Business School

You can apply for the MBA program at Harvard Business School by following these simple steps below:

• Visit the HBS MBA Application Portal at https://apply.hbs.edu/apply.
• If you are a returning user, then click on the “Log In” option.
• First-time users have to click on the “Create an Account” option.
• Provide your Email, First Name, Last name, and Birth Date.
• Click on the “Continue” button for further steps.

MBA Course Fees at Harvard Business School

Here are the Harvard Business School (HBS) MBA course fees mentioned in the table below:

Types of Scholarships & Aid at Harvard Business School

Check out the table below for the scholarships and financial aid options available at Harvard Business School for MBA students:

FAQs

Ques: When is the latest I can take the GRE or GMAT exam for HBS admission?

Ans: You must take either the GRE or GMAT before the application deadline. HBS accepts unofficial scores when you submit your application, but you must also arrange for the official scores to be sent directly to the school. You are not required to have the results of the GMAC Business Writing test or the writing section of the GRE at the time of applying. However, you are expected to complete that part of the exam, and anyone admitted will need to provide a writing assessment.

Ques: How do I make sure GMAC sends my GMAT score to the program at HBS?

Ans: When sending your GMAT scores to Harvard Business School, search for “Harvard Business School” and select the option for “MBA Full Time or PhD”. For details about the GMAT exam, you can visit www.gmac.com. If you have applied to HBS before and are applying again, you should include your scores in the new application. However, you do not need to ask the testing service to resend your official scores if the ones already on file are still valid.

Ques: Who is required to take an English Language test for Harvard Business School admission?

Ans: If your degree comes from a university where English was not the only language of instruction, you must take an English proficiency test. Accepted options include the TOEFL iBT, IELTS, PTE, or the Duolingo English Test. Please note that Harvard Business School only accepts the Internet-based (iBT) version of the TOEFL.

Ques: How can I submit my transcript for Harvard Business School admission?

Ans: Applicants must scan and upload their transcripts directly into the application system. Hard copies should not be mailed. You may submit a student copy or an unofficial version at the time of applying. However, if you are admitted, Harvard Business School will require an official transcript for verification.

Ques: When can I expect an invitation for an interview for HBS admission?

Ans: Interview invitations are usually sent about four to six weeks after the application deadline. Candidates can choose to interview on campus, at a location within the U.S., or abroad, or virtually. The timing of the interview does not reflect your application status and does not affect your chances of admission. Receiving an interview invitation shows interest from the school, but it is not a guarantee of acceptance.

Picture Credit: Harvard Business School