The Part-Time MBA Class of 2026 is filling quickly, and in light of this development, we wanted to share an update about the admissions process for our 2023 Part-Time MBA application.
If you’ve reviewed our application deadlines web page, you’ve likely noticed that we have potentially two more deadlines in our Part-Time MBA admissions cycle: 1 April and 1 June. We typically accept applications until our class fills, and in some years, the admissions cycle closes a little early.
Beginning with our 1 April deadline, we will transition to rolling admissions. Applications will be evaluated as they are received, and we will continue to accept applications until the class fills. We currently anticipate closing the application for the current admissions cycle on 17 April. As of today, we do not plan to offer a 1 June deadline.
Application FAQs Webinar
You’re also invited to join an Application FAQs webinar tomorrow, Tuesday, 28 March, at 6 p.m. ET. We’ll take on the top ten (and a few more) questions Part-Time MBA applicants frequently ask, including how the shift to rolling admissions will work. All registrants will be emailed a link to a recording of the webinar.
Tips About the Updated Application Review Process
You may be wondering what this shift means for applicants, so we are answering a few frequently asked questions.
Q: Is it still possible to be admitted?
Yes! We still have seats available in our Part-Time MBA Class of 2026 and even some scholarship money to award! However, if you’re interested in joining our class matriculating this August, please consider applying sooner than later.
Q: How will rolling admissions work?
In our experience, rolling admissions allows for a faster turnaround for both applicants and the Admissions Committee. Everybody wins!
Darden Admissions will evaluate applications as they are received. Interview invitations will be extended on an ongoing basis, and we will continue to process applications until the class fills.
Beginning with the planned 1 April round release date on Friday, 21 April, we will release rolling decisions every Friday until the class is full and the 2023 application period is closed.
Candidates who apply after the 1 April deadline can expect to receive a decision within roughly two to three weeks of their application submission.
Q: What is the latest date I could apply for admission to the Part-Time MBA Class of 2026?
As of today, we plan to close the application for our Part-Time MBA Class of 2026 on Monday, 17 April. While we will no longer be accepting applications for the class after 17 April, we will continue to review submitted applications and release decisions after this date.
Q: Given the shift to rolling admissions, what deadline should I pick from the dropdown menu when starting my application?
Select any upcoming deadline from the dropdown menu, and be sure to submit your materials as soon as they are finalized.
Q: Any tips as I work on my application?
We have a lot of great resources for Part-Time MBA applicants, including app tip-themed blog posts, a step-by-step Application Process web page and and even a Spotify playlist featuring over 20 app-focused “micro” podcast episodes.
You may want to start with two of the slower parts of the application – recommendations and standardized tests. In our Executive MBA application process, only one recommendation is required, but applicants may submit up to two.
When it comes to standardized tests, we offer two options – take a standardized test or submit a test waiver request. You will find the test waiver request in the Test Scores section of the Part-Time MBA application, and including the waiver request in the application allows our Admissions Committee to take more of a holistic approach to waiver evaluation. Wondering which of these options may be best for you? Check out our blog post about standardized tests and test waiver requests for Part-Time MBA and Executive MBA applicants.
Q: Wondering if our Executive MBA program may be right for you?
This program is also based from UVA Darden DC Metro in Arlington, and designed for busy working professionals. Students complete their studies in just 21 months. We still have several upcoming deadlines for our Executive MBA Class of 2025, and will continue to accept applications until the class fills. If you are interested in learning more about our Executive MBA program, we welcome the opportunity to connect and answer any questions you have. Schedule a 1:1 conversation with a member of our team!
Still have questions? As always, if we can be of assistance in any way, please don’t hesitate to reach out at ptmba@darden.virginia.edu!
