Is Deferred Enrollment for You? Learn About Darden’s Future Year Scholars Program

When choosing a deferred enrollment program, it goes without saying that you should make your decision based on which MBA program you would like to attend.

Perhaps you heard about UVA Darden’s Future Year Scholars Program (FYSP) from a friend or social media ad; if so, here are some quick facts about what differentiates Darden’s Full-Time MBA from other programs:

1. The education experience is centered around the case method, and core classes are intended to build well-rounded business leaders. 
2. Personalized career support begins pre-matriculation, including the Career Foundations program that helps you start thinking about your career plan, Second Year coaching and student career and industry clubs. 
3. Culture and community are a big deal here. From preparing for classes with your small group Learning Team to competing with your class section for the Darden Cup, there is always someone around to help you. Think more “supportive” than “competitive” when it comes to the classroom environment.  

Applying to a deferred enrollment MBA program is a wise decision for YOUR future. Give yourself an edge in the business world with the knowledge that you can take risks during your pre-MBA career and you can lean on the Darden network each step of the way. 

How Darden’s Deferred Enrollment Program Works

1. Work in your chosen field for two to five years. 
2. The FYSP is designed to save a spot for you in a future Full-Time MBA class; the FYSP is not an option for students with professional work experience.  
3. Apply for the program during your final year of study in an undergraduate or master’s degree program.
4. Come to Darden prepared for case method discussions, bringing your unique professional work experience to our problem-solving classroom approach.

Unique Application Tips

• While the FYSP application does not require a GMAT or GRE score, you may want to consider submitting one of these instead of an old SAT score. We have received feedback from current students that as they are going through recruiting: some companies want to see a GMAT or GRE score and it can be a disadvantage not to have one when recruiting.  
• Contact a FYSP student ambassador to scheduled a 15-minute phone call. Prepare questions ahead of time.
• View our extensive FAQ page here. Attend a coffee chat with a member of the Admissions Committee if you have any outstanding questions.

Deadlines

There are two deadlines for the FYSP: 7 April and 4 August 2025. Choose whichever one works best for you!