Requirements for an MBA in the USA for international students
Most programs require a language proficiency test, a GMAT/GRE score, transcripts, and a personal statement. However, specific programs may require additional information.
To apply for Willamette's MBA program, international applicants must submit the following:
- Online applicationComplete the free Willamette MBA application. You will use the online application to submit all your documents and information. You do not need to complete all of your application information at once. You may save your work and return to your application later.
Apply to the Early Career and Career Change program. Our part-time MBA program is not available to international students.
All application materials and documents submitted as part of the application process become the property of the Willamette MBA program and cannot be returned. - International transcriptsYou may receive conditional admission with unofficial transcripts and translated transcripts. To receive full admission, any transcripts you submit from institutions outside of the U.S. must be evaluated by World Education Services (WES). WES is a third-party credential evaluation service that converts educational credentials from any country to their U.S. equivalents.
We recommend that you start the WES evaluation process as soon as possible. Follow the steps below:
- Preview the list of documents required by WES from you and your institution to start your credential evaluation.
- If your documents are not in English, you must submit an accurate English translation with your foreign-language documents. WES does not provide translation services. Translations prepared by the school that you attended or by authorized translators in your home country are acceptable.
- Select the Course-by-Course International Credential Advantage Package (ICAP).
- Request WES to send your completed evaluation electronically directly to Willamette MBA. Do not send physical copies of your WES evaluation through the mail.
- Two referencesWillamette requires the names and contact information of two individuals. These should be people who are familiar with your work performance, professional or leadership experience, and character. We will not accept recommendations from family members. We will send a link to your references which they will use to provide their recommendation.
This is similar to a letter of recommendation, where we're looking for helpful insights about you from those you work with. - Personal statement/essayA personal statement, or essay, is a summary of your goals, experiences, and desires for an MBA. The personal statement helps the admission committee understand your motivations for seeking an MBA. By understanding your career and educational goals, we can ensure our program is the right fit for you.
- ResumeYour resume should detail your work experience and include achievements and awards earned throughout your life. Make sure to include additional activities and community service.
Willamette's MBA program does not require work experience. If you don't have professional work experience, make sure to include any major school projects that are relevant. - GMAT or GRE scoreTo receive full admission, students are required to take the GMAT/GRE. However, conditional admission is available prior to taking either exam. Contact a recruiter to determine if you are eligible for an exam fee waiver.
- GMAT code for Willamette MBA: 3MZ-PZ-27
- GRE code for Willamette MBA: 1181
- Proof of English language proficiency*Willamette offers all courses in English. International students must pass a language proficiency test to achieve our admission requirements. We require one of the following scores:
- Official TOEFL iBT score of 88 or higher (The TOEFL code for Willamette MBA is 4954)
- Official TOEFL Essentials score of 8.5 or higher (The TOEFL code for Willamette MBA is 4954)
- Official IELTS score of 6.5 or higher
- Official Duolingo score of 105 or higher
- Admission interviewWe require an interview during our admission process. All applicants must interview via Zoom, telephone, or in person. We schedule interviews by invitation. Once you complete your online application, keep your eye out for an interview request.
- Supplemental application materials
Applicants must hold a passport that will be valid for at least six months into the future from the date you apply for your visa, and from the date you will be entering or reentering the United States. Contact your local embassy or consultant if you need to renew your passport.
Applicants may submit supplemental information. They can do so by:
- Emailing mba-admission@willamette.edu
- Sending mail to: Willamette University Atkinson Graduate School of Management, 900 State Street, Salem, OR 97301