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Admissions Process

I notice that you have a Technology MBA and a Leadership MBA, but what if I just want a traditional MBA?
Our Evening LMBA and TMBA Programs cover all the fundamentals of a traditional MBA, but you get the added value of more specialized learning on top of the traditional MBA. Please contact us to discuss your interests further.
When are applications accepted?
UW Bothell MBA program admits for autumn quarter of each year. The application deadline for Autumn 2013 is April 22, 2013. Applications may be accepted after this date on a space available basis.
How are students selected for admissions?
The MBA Admissions Committee reviews all completed applications and materials. Applicants may be invited for personal interviews with the MBA Admissions Committee. Check out the Admissions Checklist for more information about the application materials.
Are there any prerequisites to apply for the MBA? Is an undergraduate degree in business required for admissions?
No, there are no prerequisites for the UW Bothell MBA programs. We welcome all applicants, especially those with undergraduate degrees in areas other than business. While an undergraduate degree is generally required, non-degree applicants with extensive leadership experience at senior levels of organizations may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
What do I need to complete and submit my application to the MBA programs?
Applicants must complete and submit their application, supplemental work form, resume, and two short essays. They should also arrange to send us the official GMAT scores and two letters of recommendation; please also upload an unofficial transcript. The Graduate school will request an official transcript and, if needed, proof of English proficiency and financial ability upon admission. See the application check list for more details.
How much emphasis do you place on the undergraduate GPA?
Although a 3.0 and above is always preferred, our applicants are also considered based upon prior professional work experience, career progression, GMAT scores and other evidence of achievement. Your GPA is only one aspect of your application. Your application will be viewed as a whole package and the weaker aspects may be balanced by the stronger parts of your application.
How much emphasis do you place on full-time work experience?
Almost all admitted MBA students have at least two years of full-time work experience before they enter the MBA program. Most of our students have earned this experience after their undergraduate education. Our students bring a wide range of experiences to the classroom, having worked in industries such as software, aerospace, health services, insurance, financial services, telecom services and non-profits. We strongly encourage and celebrate diversity of students, backgrounds, viewpoints and cultures in our classrooms.
Is an interview required?
Yes, an interview is required for admission to the programs. Once an applicant has submitted all the required materials, the application will be reviewed and selected applicants will be invited to meet with the MBA Admissions Committee. Applicants will have an opportunity to raise any questions they may have about the program with the interviewers.

GMAT Questions

Is the GMAT required?
Yes, the GMAT is a requirement for admissions; we accept all GMAT scores that are less than five years old at the time of the application. The GMAT exam preparation and related details are briefly discussed at our monthly MBA Information Sessions. The official Graduate Admissions Council’s GMAT website is www.gmac.com.
Can GRE be used in place of a GMAT?
Although we prefer the GMAT, we will accept GRE scores that are less than 5 years old in some circumstances. The GRE/GMAT Conversion table is used to make the scores comparable.
Is there a limit on how many times I can take the GMAT?
No, you may take the GMAT as many times as you wish, though historical evidence suggests that substantial changes in GMAT scores as a result of multiple attempts are rare and infrequent. If you plan to retake the GMAT, please keep in mind that they require 30 days between test dates. UW Bothell will consider the highest score.
Can I apply even though I have not yet taken the GMAT?
Yes, we encourage applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible, even if they have not taken their GMAT. Collecting letters of recommendation, writing essays and completing the application takes time. You should not wait to complete your GMAT before starting on these tasks. However, please note that we will need your GMAT scores and a completed application package before we begin the application review.
What if I do not do well on the GMAT? Should I retake the GMAT?
Please contact the admissions coordinator to discuss the best way for you to proceed if you are concerned about your test score.
Can I send my transcripts prior to applying?
You do not need to send official transcripts to UW Bothell at the time of application. You will have to upload an unofficial transcript into your application. However, if admitted, the UW Graduate School will request an official transcript.

Program Questions

Where are classes held for the two MBA programs?
Almost all the classes in the Leadership MBA program meet at our Eastside Leadership Center in Bellevue on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00-9:50pm. Classes in the TMBA meet at our Bothell campus on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00-9:50pm. Directions and maps for both locations
When do classes meet and how many classes do I take per quarter?
Our Evening MBA Programs are designed to allow working professionals the convenience of maintaining their careers and family life while going to school just 2 evenings per week. In most quarters you will be in classes 2 evenings every week during the quarter.
What is the length of time it will take to complete a degree?
The UW Bothell LMBA and TMBA programs are designed to be completed in two years and most students complete the program within this time. However, UW rules allow students to take up to six years to complete their master's degree. This timeline includes on-leave quarters.
Is it possible to have any course(s) waived if taken previously or have had comparable course work in the past?
A student working toward the master's degree may petition for permission to transfer to the University of Washington a maximum of 12 quarter credits of graduate level course work taken at another AACSB-accredited academic institution, provided that course work is equivalent to the course work in the UWB MBA program. The credits sought to be transferred may not have been used to satisfy requirements for another degree.
Are you accredited?
Yes, the UW Bothell Evening MBA Programs have the AACB accreditation, which is the highest accreditation possible for an MBA Program. Only about 6% of all MBA programs worldwide have earned this accreditation.

Tuition & Financial Aid

What is the tuition? Will it stay the same throughout the program?
Tuition for the MBA program is determined by the UW Board of Regents annually.  The tuition is a flat rate for students who are enrolled from 7 credits up to 18 credits per quarter; the typical UWB MBA student is enrolled in 8 to 12 credits per quarter. Please note that tuition for admitted MBA Students will stay the same during the first two academic years. Summer quarter tuition is set independently but will be approximately the same as academic quarter tuition.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, financial aid is available. To learn more about financial aid and scholarships at UWB, please check our financial aid page. In most cases, FAFSA applications are required for financial aid consideration. We recommend that students complete the FAFSA online or mail a completed FAFSA application. Returning students should complete the FAFSA no later than February 15. Incoming students should complete FAFSA as soon as possible after they have been admitted to the MBA programs. The University of Washington Title IV Code is 003798.

To learn more about financial support resources through the UW Graduate School, such as finding outside funding and financial aid for minority students, please check the University of Washington Graduate School and the University of Washington Library.

Career Services

What career services are available?
The School of Business offers MBA Career Coaching during the year with professional career coaches. Career coaches provide seminars on managing your career, resume and interviewing clinics, as well as individual coaching sessions to discuss career options and trajectories.

At the campus level, UWB Career Services provides internship listings, career fairs, electronic job postings, and career information and services to assist students and alumni in making connections between academic programs, career options and long-range goals. Also available are workshops and counseling to help students develop job search skills.

The Husky Career Advantage web site is a comprehensive treasure trove of career-related information for alumni and students.
Is there a difference in the diploma received from UW Bothell and other UW campuses?
All diplomas from the University of Washington are the same. One corner of the application signifies which of the campus faculty were your instructors.

Visiting & Contact Information

Can I come to visit a MBA class?
Absolutely! We encourage applicants to arrange a class visit, where they will have the opportunity to meet current students and faculty. Please email Vicki Tolbert at vtolbert@uwb.edu to arrange a visit.
Are there any opportunities to learn more about the MBA Programs in person?
Definitely! An MBA Information Session is offered each first Thursday in Bothell and each second Thursday in Bellevue from 5-6:15pm. Other special events will also be noted on that website. We look forward to meeting you!
What if I have other questions?
Feel free to contact one of the people listed below for further information;

Vicki Tolbert, Recruitment Specialist
Phone: 425-352-5277
vtolbert@uwb.edu

Or

Kathryn Chester, MBA Admissions and Student Services Coordinator
Phone: 425-352-3275
kchester@uwb.edu