PrepSavvy

Harvard Business School FAQ

Answers to common questions about the Harvard Business School MBA, sourced from the school’s own pages.

Admissions

What is the acceptance rate at Harvard Business School?

HBS does not publish an acceptance rate on its class profile. It received 9,409 applications in the 2024-2025 academic year for a Class of 2027 of 943 students.

What GMAT score do I need for HBS?

There is no minimum score and no preference between tests. For the Class of 2027 the median GMAT Focus Edition score was 685 (middle 80% 645-735) and the median GMAT 10th Edition score was 730 (middle 80% 690-770).

What GPA do I need for HBS?

There is no minimum GPA. The average GPA for the Class of 2027 was 3.76, based on US schools that use a 4.0 scale.

When are the HBS deadlines for fall 2027 entry?

Round 1 closes September 9, 2026 (decision December 10, 2026) and Round 2 closes January 5, 2027 (decision March 25, 2027), both at 12:00 PM ET.

Program

How long is the HBS MBA program?

Two years, full time. HBS has one MBA program and does not offer a part-time or executive MBA.

What is the class size at HBS?

The Class of 2027 has 943 students. First-year students are assigned to sections of approximately 90 students.

How international is the HBS MBA?

37% of the Class of 2027 is international, with 62 countries represented.

Career

What is the median salary for HBS graduates?

The Class of 2025 median base salary was $184,500. The median signing bonus was $30,000 (58% receiving).

How many HBS graduates receive job offers?

65% of the Class of 2025 sought employment; 90% of those received an offer within three months of graduation and 84% accepted an offer.

What are the top industries for HBS graduates?

For the Class of 2025: technology 22%, consulting 21%, private equity 14%, investment management or hedge funds 7%.

Financial

How much is tuition at HBS?

Tuition for 2026-27 is $84,760.

What is the total cost of attendance at HBS?

The 2026-27 cost of attendance for a single student over nine months is $130,318, including tuition, health fees, and living expenses.

What is the application fee for HBS?

$250, or $100 for 2+2 applicants. Active-duty military applicants are exempt, and a need-based fee waiver is available.

Application

What essays are required for the HBS application?

Three essays for the Class of 2029: Business-Minded (300 words), Leadership-Focused (250 words), and Growth-Oriented (250 words).

How many recommendation letters does HBS require?

Two, submitted online by the round deadline.

Does HBS require the TOEFL or IELTS?

A TOEFL iBT, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo score is required if you did not attend an undergraduate institution where the sole language of instruction is English.

Does HBS grant test waivers?

No. HBS requires a valid GRE or GMAT score from every applicant.

Teaching and location

What is the teaching method at HBS?

The case method. Students read about 500 cases during the two-year MBA program.

Where is HBS located?

Boston, Massachusetts (Boston, MA 02163).

Sources

  1. 1. Harvard Business School, Class Profile (Class of 2027)
  2. 2. Harvard Business School, Application Dates (MBA Class of 2029)
  3. 3. Harvard Business School, Application Process (2026-2027 cycle)
  4. 4. Harvard Business School, MBA Admissions Frequently Asked Questions
  5. 5. Harvard Business School, Employment Data (Class of 2025)
  6. 6. Harvard Business School, Cost of Attendance (2026-27)
  7. 7. Harvard Business School, The Case Method
  8. 8. Harvard Business School, The Section Experience