Harvard Business School

About Harvard Business School

Harvard Business School (HBS) has a solid reputation and is considered to have one of the best and most prestigious business programs in the country.

The school also has a unique approach to business education. There are no majors and no concentrations. The program provides a tried and true focus on a general management education. Classes consist of 90 students each and encourage a great deal of student participation.

The faculty at HBS is made up of pioneering researchers and entrepreneurs, as well as former managers of leading companies, non-profits, and government organizations. These distinguished teachers are leaders in their field and well-respected for their achievements.

Academics

The cornerstone of Harvard's general management approach is the method of teaching that is employed. Known as the case method, this learning process encourages students to use their skills to analyze real life business situations and create workable solutions to complex problems.

In a two year span, students of Harvard Business School complete an analysis of approximately 500 cases. This innovative learning method provides students with the knowledge, experience, and self-confidence needed to become a future leader in the business world.

Although the reputation of this business program is almost unbeatable, anyone who is interested in attending Harvard must be prepared to dedicate themselves to their education. The program is rigorous and demands an enormous effort from the students.

Harvard Business School Admissions

Harvard Business School's full-time program accepts approximately 900 students each year. While the number seems large, it is actually small when you consider the number of prospective students who apply on an annual basis. Harvard estimates that it accepts only 12 percent of applicants into its business school program each year.

To be considered for admission, you must complete an HBS portfolio that includes:

• Academic Transcripts
• Personal Essays
• Three Letters of Recommendation

Applicants must also provide their scores from the GMAT (applicants from non-English speaking countries must submit scores for the TOEFL or the IELTS).

The information in your application portfolio, your academic ability, and your leadership experience will all factor into the admission committee's decision. Admission may also be contingent on your personal characteristics and an estimate of what you could contribute to the program as a student.

Because all applications must be submitted online, the school recommends submitting early in the application process, or at minimum, several days before the deadline. This eliminates the chances of your application being missed due to technical difficulties, such as server traffic problems.

Visiting Harvard

One of the best ways to learn more about the Harvard Business School program involves visiting the school. This will give you the chance to interact with students, faculty, and admissions staff. You can even sit in on classes while you are on campus.

Although sitting in on classes and touring the campus is not an admission requirement, it will help you determine whether or not the program is right for you. If you are interested in scheduling a campus visit, contact the admissions office by phone (1-617-495-6127) or schedule a visit online.

Additional Information

• To learn more about Harvard Business School, visit the HBS website.
• For admissions questions, contact the admissions office at 1-617-495-6127.
• To learn more about careers at Harvard, visit the Harvard University Employment website.