Wharton MBA

The Wharton MBA Program at the University of Pennsylvania is a globally leading, full-time, two-year graduate management degree designed for individuals ready to accelerate their leadership, broaden their business toolkit, and make significant impact across industries. It combines Wharton’s tradition of academic rigor and analytical depth with experiential learning, global exposure, interdisciplinary flexibility, and a powerful alumni network.

Key Features & Value

• Return on Investment & Career Impact
  Wharton consistently ranks among the top business schools for full-time job placements and long-term earnings. Graduates from the most recent class had a median base salary of $175,000 in their first year out of the program, with very high percentages receiving and accepting offers.

• Network & Lifelong Learning
  With an alumni base of over 100,000 professionals worldwide, Wharton provides an unmatched network of connections, mentorship, and opportunities throughout one’s career.

• Analytical & Leadership Skill Building
  Students receive rigorous training in quantitative and analytical methods, paired with leadership development programs. This equips graduates to succeed in consulting, finance, technology, entrepreneurship, and other sectors.

• Global & Interdisciplinary Opportunities
  The MBA offers joint and dual degree pathways—including programs in law, international studies, and healthcare management—plus global immersion options and a deferred admissions track for early-career talent.

Class Profile & Diversity

• Class Size & Composition
  The incoming class includes 866 students, with 47% women, 31% international students, and representation from more than 65 countries.

• Experience & Backgrounds
  Students bring an average of five years of work experience, and come from diverse academic disciplines spanning business, STEM, and the humanities.

• Academic Strength
  The class profile highlights an average undergraduate GPA of 3.68 (U.S. institutions) and an average GMAT score of 732, with similarly strong GRE results.

• Broader Diversity
  About 11% are first-generation college graduates, 6% have military backgrounds, and 10% identify as LGBTQ+, creating a learning community with a wide range of perspectives and life experiences.

Admission Requirements & Application Process

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and provide transcripts, standardized test scores (GMAT or GRE), English proficiency results when applicable, a resume, essays, and letters of recommendation. Essays focus on both professional goals and contributions to the Wharton community.

Applications are evaluated holistically, with each file reviewed by at least two readers. The committee looks at leadership, personal qualities, academic preparation, and the potential to both benefit from and enrich the Wharton experience.

Pedagogy & Culture

Wharton emphasizes collaborative leadership, experiential learning, and quantitative rigor. Through case studies, simulations, and global immersions, students apply theory to real-world contexts. The culture fosters inclusivity, open exchange of ideas, and the development of leaders who can operate in global, diverse, and dynamic environments.

Who It’s Best Suited For

The Wharton MBA is ideal for early- to mid-career professionals who want to:

• Accelerate career progression or pivot industries

• Gain both strong analytical training and leadership skills

• Build a powerful, global professional network

• Pursue long-term growth and impact beyond immediate career outcomes