FAQs
What are the application deadlines?
May I apply to more than one of your MBA programs at once?
Can I apply to Columbia if I already have an MBA?
Why must I take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) to apply to Columbia?
Do I have to take the GMAT before I apply?
How do I schedule an interview?
Can I apply without being gainfully employed?
How much does the EMBA program cost?
Are there scholarships for students in the program?
How much will I be able to customize my curriculum through electives?
What Career management services are available?
How do I apply?
The application processes for all three EMBA programs are handled online. Feel free to contact the EMBA Admissions Office at (212) 854-2211 or send an e-mail to embainfo@columbia.edu if you have any further questions.
What are the application deadlines?
There are three application deadlines for Columbia Executive MBA Programs.
- The EMBA-NY program application deadlines are June 15th for September entry and October 15th (early deadline) and November 23rd (final deadline) for January entry. We use a "rolling admissions" process, thus, it is advantageous for you to submit your application as early in the process as possible.
- The EMBA-Global program begins in May, and also reviews applications on a rolling admissions process. The early decision deadline is November 2008 and the final deadline for completed applications is February 2009. The Berkeley-Columbia Executive MBA program begins in May. It does not have rolling admissions, but two admission rounds. Applicants who submit completed applications by the early decision deadline in January 2009 will be notified February 2009. Applicants who submit completed applications by February 2009 will be notified of their status March 2009.
May I apply to more than one of your MBA programs at once?
Columbia does not accept simultaneous applications to its MBA programs. You should make your application to the program that most closely reflects your professional, personal and geographic interests and experience. Admissions officers will be happy to offer guidance with your choice. If you wish to explore the possibility of admission to a different program during the application process, it is possible to request that the School’s selection committee discuss your suitability for a different program. We reserve the right to withdraw offers of admission to any candidate who does not disclose a prior application to any other Columbia MBA program.
Can I apply to Columbia if I already have an MBA?
If you already have an MBA or similar degree in management studies, you are eligible to apply to the Columbia Executive MBA Program. We would not encourage you to do so, however, without a compelling reason. You may wish to review our course offerings and talk to an admissions representative to see how much of the program would be repetitious. Then, if you decide to apply, make a compelling case in your Columbia Executive MBA Program application to explain why you want to have another MBA education.
Why must I take the Graduate Management Admissions Test?
The curriculum is the same rigorous curriculum required in the conventional MBA program. Because students attend universities and colleges around the world with different grading systems, the GMAT is the only standard gauge we have to compare you to other applicants.
Do I have to take the GMAT before I apply?
No. However, you must take the GMAT exam before an admissions decision can be rendered. Columbia Business School will accept GMAT scores that are no more than five years old. If you take the GMAT more than once, the highest score will be considered, as long as that score falls within current test date requirements.
You must submit an official score report via http://www.gmac.com. Please forward your official GMAT score to the Columbia Executive MBA program, institution code QF8-N6-36. For more information regarding registration call 1-800-717-GMAT (4628), or send an e-mail to GMATCandidateServicesAmericas@pearson.com.
How do I schedule an interview?
The interview is a chance for us to get to know you beyond your written application and for you to ask questions. Once you submit your application, an admissions representative will contact you to schedule a time to meet. Alternatively, to request an interview, please send your resume to the Admissions Office at embainfo@columbia.edu and an admissions representative will contact you within seven to ten days.
Do I need to be sponsored?
Sponsorship is viewed in two ways: time away from work to attend class, and financial support. At a minimum, you must submit written authorization from your employer that states you have permission to attend class on workdays and to complete the Program. Many students also obtain corporate financial sponsorship, which ranges from partial to full support, but third-party financial sponsorship is not required.
Can I sponsor myself?
Yes. If you are an independent professional or consultant, or the head of your own firm, you can write your own sponsor letter (download a sample sponsor letter). If you are employed by an organization that can endorse your candidacy but not support you financially, you may meet the financial requirements yourself. In this case, your organization must still provide a letter of endorsement stating that you will be guaranteed time away from work to attend all classes and required program activities.
Can I apply without being gainfully employed?
There is an employment requirement for admission to Columbia Executive MBA programs, but exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis for recently unemployed applicants who are otherwise highly qualified. You should discuss your situation with a member of the admissions team as soon as possible.
How much does the EMBA program cost?
Fees cover tuition, books and meals on all class days and conference center accommodations during the weeks in residence at the start of the first two terms. The fees also include residence and meals during one optional weeklong International Seminar in the second year. Please note that you are required to have a laptop computer for the program and that travel expenses are not included and must be paid separately by each student.
NY EMBA Friday / Saturday Program:
September 2009: $144,000
January 2010: $144,000
Are there scholarships for the program?
There are no scholarships or grants offered directly through Columbia University. There are, however, free online scholarship search engines that may be helpful in identifying external sources of scholarships.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available through federal and private educational loans. Find more information on Financial Aid or call Columbia Business School business office at (212) 854-6757.
How much will I be able to customize my curriculum through electives?
EMBA NY students take a total of 11 electives in terms 3, 4 and 5. Elective offerings are scheduled with the academic divisions. Typically, you are offered a selection of 30 electives over three terms. You may also take electives (a maximum of two courses) from the traditional MBA program or from Columbia’s other professional schools (Law, International and Public Affairs, Journalism, Medicine, Public Health, etc.) if your schedule and course capacity permits. Electives are undertaken after you have completed the 10 core courses and 4 distribution requirements (6 are half-courses). More detailed information about the elective offerings of the Berkeley-Columbia Executive MBA and EMBA-Global can be found on their respective sites.
What career management services are available?
EMBA Career Management (CM) is designed to provide ongoing professional career development services specifically to EMBA students. Included in this programming are career-related workshops, virtual programs, one-on-one advising, an extensive web site, and various networking opportunities and events. These resources are dedicated to enhancing professional development for both active job seekers and students who intend to continue working with their sponsoring employers.
