FTMBA Application FAQ for 25-26 Cycle | Kellogg School of Management

Question

Application season is underway and it's natural to feel overwhelmed when putting applications components together. Fret not! We've collated a comprehensive list of FAQs and responses by the Kellogg admissions committee referencing the webinar "Applying to Kellogg: Full-Time Application Q&A with Admissions" from 5th August 2025.

Please note some of the questions and their responses maybe limited to the 2025-2026 application cycle, so it is best to check with adcom in case you need specific queries to be answered.

In case you need to reach out to the adcom, please email or call them on: MBAadmissions@kellogg.northwestern.edu or +1 (847) 491 3308.

Pro Tip: Use Ctrl+F (Windows) or Command + F (MacOS) to navigate and find the response to your query below.

S. No.	Question asked by individual	Kellogg Adcom Response
1	Hi. Will the recording be shared later? I will unfortunately have to drop off halfway through due to a work engagement just came in	The recording will not be shared. If you have any questions after the session, please email mbaadmissions@kellogg.northwestern.edu.
2	Can I submit MBA Math certification in the optional essay to compensate GRE score?	You can absolutely submit your MBA Math certificate to support your quantitative ability.
3	Is there any risk associated with applying through the Consortium?	No, we view applications the same way whether they are submitted directly to us or through the consortium.
4	When will the campus visits resume this fall?	Our campus visit will resume in late September or early October. Please keep an eye on our website for upcoming events.
5	Is FMVA by CFI considered	We recommend sharing any certifications or professional accomplishments you may have in the application process. A bachelor's degree is required to be eligible for our MBA programs.
6	I have work experience primarily in the early startup space. However, most profiles I come across from Kellogg have had pre-MBA experiences in very known and large organizations. Will I be at a disadvantage? Also, what would be your recommendation for a profile like mine?	We have students from many backgrounds, including early stage startups. You would not be at a disadvantage. We'd encourage you to highlight your team and leadership experience, especially areas where you might have had early responsibility in a startup.
7	Is MMM more competitive than the traditional MBA program? And in terms of product management, does the MMM program show any significant increase in recruiting outcomes?	All of our programs are competitive and the MMM class profile aligns closely with our 2Y class profile in terms of GRE/GMAT and GPA. Take a look at our class profile here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/pr ... ofile.aspx. Also, please take a look at our employment report and scroll down to specific data on MMM: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/co ... t-outcomes.
8	Are scholarships allocated evenly across Rounds 1 and 2, or is there a strategic benefit to applying earlier in Round 1 when it comes to funding?	No, we award scholarships in both rounds based on the merit of the application. We encourage you to apply in the round in which you feel your application is ready and at its best.
9	Can change what round I want to be considered? Let's say i initially wanted round 1 but couldn't get my application ready in time.	Yes, you can change the round if you'd like.
10	I am interested in the 2Y Full time MBA program. What recruiting resources does Kellogg provide for students interested in pivoting into healthcare life sciences industry?	Within the Healthcare at Kellogg pathway, there are three tracks to help you go more in depth within a specific area: The Life Sciences/Products Track, the Payer/Provider Track, and the Healthcare Entrepreneurship Track. The courses specific to those tracks are meant to help you gain insight into industry-specific issues. You can find more information about the course offerings in these tracks here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/pr ... nt-pathway.
11	Hi Team, thanks for the session. Just wanted to understand the components required of off the re-applicants and how best to place ourselves as re-applicants. Additionally, are there any sort of application fee waiver/discounts for re-applicants. Thanks!	Hi! We are very re-applicant friendly and the process is simple. All re-applicants will need to start with a fresh application including new materials, recommendation letters, video essays, and application fee. We do not offer fee waivers or discounts for re-applicants. If your test scores are still valid from your initial application, you do not need to re-submit them to Kellogg. The only difference in the application process for re-applicants is that you'll need to complete a short essay question to fill us in on what you've been up to since you first applied.
12	Can we apply for both MBAi and 2 year MBA?	Thank you for joining us. You can apply to one program per application cycle, however after you submit your application you will have the opportunity to complete an "alternate program" form where you can show your interest to be considered for the alternate program.
13	What is the difference between applying through Northwestern directly versus the Consortium? Is there any type of person who should apply through one versus the other?	From our perspective, we view applications the same way whether they are submitted directly to us or through the Consortium.
14	Can you apply to the 2-year MBA with the option of being considered for the MBAi if you don't get in?	You can apply to the 2Y program but after your application is submitted, you will have the option to be considered for one other Full-Time Kellogg MBA Program and/or the Evening and Weekend Program. This selection must be made within 96 hours of the application deadline and will include a short, 250-word essay for the applicant to explain interest in the alternate program. You may need to provide additional information based on program requirements. If we're unable to offer you admission to your program of choice, then we'll consider you for the other program(s) in which you are interested. Because each program is designed to help students achieve specific professional and educational goals, it's important that you remain intentional when choosing multiple program.
15	Can an applicant apply to multiple programs in the same application year/round?	You can only apply to FTMBA programs once in an application cycle. You can apply to our EMBA or Evening and Weekend programs, but the application can't be in progress at the same time as the FTMBA application - would need to be either before or after.
16	Is there information about the average GMAT Focus scores of class of '27?	Please consult our latest class profile for the Class of 2026: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/pr ... s-profile/
17	how to know more about club initiatives	Hi- Check out this website to learn more about the 100+ student clubs at Kellogg: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/pr ... ubs-trips/
18	Could you go into more detail on how MMM differs from Two Year	The MMM program starts a quarter earlier in the summer and there are several design thinking courses in the MMM curriculum that are not in the 2Y curriculum. MMM students graduate with two degrees - an MBA and an MS in Design Thinking from the McCormick School of Engineering.
19	Given that campus visits resume in late September or early October, would a visit after the application deadline still be meaningful from the admissions perspective or primarily for our own insight into fit?	Absolutely, any time you have the opportunity to visit will be meaningful and allow you to connect with students and the campus.
20	What's the difference between 2Y MBA with Analytics concentration vs MBAi? Can a student attending the former program be eligible for roles across both programs?	The MBAi program is more specific in the courses that are required and is a shorter program. An analytics concentration within the 2Y program allows for a bit more flexibility in terms of electives.
21	For the MBAi, roughly how many years in tech are you looking for?	There isn't necessarily an ideal number of years of experience in tech, rather your level of proficiency working with tech and your technical knowledge. A happy medium is preferred - you have a solid grounding in tech/technical knowledge, but you are no master. You will want to make sure you are learning and can make the most of the MBAi program based on your current technical proficiency. Some examples of work experience we see are technical product owners, project mangers, data scientists, software engineers, R&D associates, etc.
22	Do you offer application fee waivers	Fee waivers are granted to: Active duty U.S. military applicants or U.S. military veterans who have been on active duty within three years of applying. "Candidates employed by Teach For America, Title 1 Schools, AmeriCorps or the Peace Corps within the past three years.
23	I'm an international applicant from an overrepresented country. How is Kellogg evaluating applications from my demographic, especially with all the uncertainty around post-MBA visas?"	We evaluate all applicants the same way, regardless of demographic.
24	Should include volunteering outside of work and extra-curricular activities during undergrad on my resume?	You are welcome to list them there if you have room. There will be space in the application to enter these though.
25	What percentage of last year's admitted students were reapplicants? Among those, could you share how many had reached the interview stage in their previous application versus those who were denied before the interview?	We do not track/share that information. We strive to interview as many applicants as possible in each round.
26	If I ask my recommender to submit the rec letters for round 1, and then decide later to apply for round 2, do they have to submit the rec letters again?	The rec letters can be moved to Round 2. However, if you waited to apply in a future application cycle (ie next year), then new rec letters would be required.
27	How big of a negative factor is scoring just below the average admittance rate on the GRE or GMAT? What are the best ways to offset that in the application?	The GRE/GMAT is only one component of the application and we review our applications wholistically. We would be interested in quant classes you took during undergrad and/or any quantitive work you preformin your work.
28	The way my company is structured, there is only one promotion i can get before I get an MBA. Is it a disadvantage to me to only have one promotion in 5 years? Do I have to explain this in extra information section?	We take a holistic approach to reviewing applications. You are welcome to explain this in the extra information section of the application.
29	With the career goals short answers, what does that look like if applying through Consortium?	You would still need to complete this section, even though there is a similar question asked through the Consortium application.
30	Is TOEFL score required for all international students even if the medium of instruction was English in undergrad?	All candidates who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents must send a valid TOEFL, IELTS, or DET score to Kellogg. International students may qualify for an exemption if one of the following criteria is met: 1. The applicant completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at a college or university in the United States. 2. The applicant completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at a college or university where English was the ONLY language of instruction. 3. The applicant has worked in the United States or another English-speaking nation for at least two consecutive years within the last 5 years.
31	Follow-up question on the fall campus visit: Since I'm an international student, may I know when will be the earliest possiblity to know the updated offline events in late September and early october, and it may help a lot for planning my itenery to do a school visit to Kellogg, thank you!"	Events will be pldated online soon. Please keep checking our website: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/ad ... ns-events/
32	Should we also include transcripts from college level courses taken during high school?	Yes, we do ask you to submit these especially if the credit went toward your undergraduate degree.
33	Just want to confirm - an unofficial transcript is just the downloadable PDF that we can get from our school website, right? And what are unofficial test scores?	Yes, typically students and alumni can download an unofficial copy of their final transcript by logging into their university's website. We only need unofficial transcripts and test scores for the purpose of evaluating your application -- official documentation is required for anyone that is admitted to Kellogg.
34	is Masters level GPA taken into consideration in the same capacity as undergrad?	Yes, we will be interested in your Masters level GPA as well as the undergrad GPA - neither is weighted more or less than another.
35	Is there GRE/GMAT waiver for 1 year MBA programme?	No, the GRE/GMAT is required for all of our programs.
36	If my GRE score expires April 2027 and I am planning to start 2-year MBA program in Fall 2027, do I need to retake the GRE?	Your test scores need to be valid at the time of submitting your application. It is okay if they will expire by the time you begin the program (if admitted), but you must be able to request official test scores to be sent to Kellogg in the event you are admitted.
37	Do you provide GRE/GMAT test waiver?	No, we don't. The GRE/GMAT is required for the application.
38	How are you? Are there mentor programs or opportunities?	We would need a bit more detail to answer this question, but yes there are mentor opportunities - for example, our second year students help prepare first year students for interviews.
39	Is it okay for us to omit a job experience from the application? (A first job with a duration of less than 1 year)	We typically want to hear about every professional experience you've had, as your experiences give us a bigger picture of who you are and what your skillset may be. We only evaluate the information you submit to our team, but we recommend offering a full picture of your professional experience. Feel free to use the optional essay to explain any context behind a brief role.
40	Are there any prerequisites for the Vetter Dean Scholarship? Is there a Class Profile or some reference material to understand if we qualify for it?	Hi, I do not believe the Vetter Dean scholarship is offered to Kellogg students. Feel free to email our team at mbaadmissions@kellogg.northwestern.edu if you believe this to be incorrect.
41	My test score for the GRE expires on September 23, 2025. This is AFTER Round 1 applications are due, but before responses are finalized. Is my test score viable to apply with?	You must submit a complete application prior to the expiration date of your GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE score. As long as the application is complete and submitted before then, we can accept it.
42	For the test scores, since you allow applicants to report multiple score, do you look at the highest total or highest Verbal and highest Quant scores (kind of like a superscore)?	We look at the highest total score. We do not superscore.
43	Can we apply in Round 1 and submit a new test score in Nov? Will that be too late?	You are welcome to submit another test score in November, but we cannot guarantee that the admissions committee will see any application materials submitted after the round deadline.
44	If I have already sent the official test report, but then the percentile changed. Which percentile should I report now (the old vs new percentile?)?	You will be asked to send the most updated official report you have avaliable, if admitted.
45	Are individual section scores for the GMAT/GRE evaluated or is only the total score considered?	We look at both the total score and the individual sections of each test.
46	The essay questions n the application online are different than what we see on the screen	You can see our written essay questions on our website here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/ad ... -to-apply/
47	Double-checking what I heard - we do not need to submit official scores until after admission? For the application, can we submit the .pdf report and manually input scores?	Since it takes time for us to receive official scores from the testing agencies, we require you to upload your unofficial score report with your application. You are welcome to submit a pdf or screenshot of your report and put in your scores.
48	Are the requirements like GMAT test scores, GPA, work experience requirements, different for MBAi vs the regular full time 2 Years MBA?	The application requirements and background are consistent with the 2Y MBA, but we do require that MBAi applicants have some technical experience coming into the program.
49	Do we need to get our transcripts converted to the 4.0 scale via WES or any other institution?	It is not necessary to have your grades converted to the 4.0 scale. We are well versed in international grades. You will however need to make sure your transcript is translated into English if in another language.
50	Should essay 1 have a strong focus on a candidate's "journey" to their aspirations? or should it focus more strongly on the Why MBA, Why Kellogg, why now questions?	The choice is yours! We cannot offer prescriptive advice as to how you should answer the essay questions - as long as you answer the question in its entirety, you will fulfill the written essay requirement.
51	Will applying two years ago count as being a reapplicant?	Every applicant must submit a new application for every admissions cycle, regardless of prior applications
52	If I applied as a college senior and am reapplying after 3-4 years of work experience, should my reapplicant essay be focused more on my career and professional development or other areas?	Yes, it would make sense for you to focus on career growth since that is likely the most significant change since you last applied.
53	How does Kellogg evaluate more experienced applicants, applicants with around 10+ years of work experience, during the admissions process? Is the review more contextual? I ask this because there can be multiple reasons, professional and/or personal, why someone might want to wait longer to pursue an MBA.	We consider your application and experience based on the context of who you are and what you've accomplished thus far. Someone with 2 years of work experience is much earlier in their career journey and cannot be considered the exact same way someone with 10+ years of experience would be. We have a holisitic process that considers each applicant as their own person, assessing their experience, values, interests, and goals. You are welcome to explain why the timing of your MBA application is right for you - this timeline looks different for everyone!
54	Is there a portal or directory where I can find details of current students or alumni that I can reach out to for a conversation?	LinkedIn is a great resource to connect with students/alumni
55	what is the take on DEI? if someone has done DEI work, how do you suggest to highlight that in the application?	You are welcome to share that in the essays or in the activities or work experience sections of the application, depending on where you gained this experience.
56	The reapplicants who make it on their second attempt - are they mostly those who made it to the interview round and then got rejected?	It really varies by candidate and is not something we specifically track.
57	can I start my applications in the website for round 1, but if I feel that my documents/scores are not good enough, can I ""finish"" the application for round 2?	Yes, you are welcome to move the application to Round 2 if you decide you aren't ready to submit for Round 1.
58	Can we include a 3rd letter of recommendation/support from someone in academia?	We only require two letters of recommendation and are most interested in hearing from recommenders who can provide insight into your professional performance and accomplishments as a leader/potential as a leader.
59	What are some recommended ways to offset a below average GPA? How far would an above average test score + an MBA Math transcript go in this regard?	Both a strong test score and additional coursework like MBA Math can help give us more assurance of your ability to handle the curriculum.
60	Is there a grace period for recommendation submissions?	We allow recommenders a 96 hour grace period after the application round deadline.
61	Should the recommenders specifically answer the questions separately or should it be a single letter that addresses these?	It is helpful for them to separate the answers to each question, but it is OK either way, as long as they answer the questions.
62	A small query, I was filling up the application and in the Academic Performance section, it asked for a website. Can you please clarify what website are you talking about?	We ask you to enter the website address of each school you list in the academic performance section.
63	Does the IELTS minimum score requirement apply to the overall band score or to each individual band?	We do not have any minimum score requirements.
64	My previous supervisor can speak well to my candidature, but I worked with him a little over two years ago. Would his recommendation in any way affect my candidature?	That is fine if you have him write a recommendation, though we'd also encourage to get a recommendation from your current supervisor too. If there's a reason you don't want to though, you can explain that in the application.
65	Is the Global Hub building growing in size and features?	There are no plans to alter the Global Hub building at this time, but we are building a brand new building next door! You can learn more here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/al ... -building/
66	Can your recommenders upload their recommendation letters before R1 even if you don't apply until R2?	Yes, this is fine. They can be moved to a future round.
67	I did not submit my GRE score to Kellogg on the day of the test. Do I need to use ScoreSelect and share the score directly through ETS?	Yes, you will need to have your official scores sent through ETS. You can upload an unofficial report with your application.
68	Can we complete the video questions before applications are due or do the questions only become available after we submit our application?	The video essay questions will become available after you have submitted your application and payment.
69	"If I start my application in R1 and don't complete it by the R1 deadline, will it automatically get passed on to the R2 pile?"	If you aren't able to complete it by the R1 deadline, you can switch it to R2 in the portal.
70	Is there any chance that kellogg can consider someone with financial challenges for an application fee waiver?	We are not able to offer waivers for this reason.
71	In order to receive (attempt to receive) a maximum scholarship, is it recommended that a candidate gives another GRE attempt if the current score in around 320?	Scholarship awards are based on a variety of factors and not just test scores, so there is no specific test score required for a scholarship.
72	So these videos will be due Sunday September 10th?	The video essay link will become available on your application status page within 48 hours of submitting your application and the application fee. You will have 96 hours after the round deadline, regardless of when you submit your application, to submit the video essay. However, we encourage you to complete the essay soon after you submit the application so the application and Kellogg program is still fresh in your mind.
73	Thoughts on one of the rec letters being written by a professional mentor who hasn't supervised an applicant in a professional context, but is intimately familiar with their goals and professional trajectory?	We are most interested in hearing from recommenders who can provide insight into your professional experiences and accomplishments/potential as a leader. If you are not able to find a recommender who can evaluate your professional performance (a current/previous supervisor), you can use a mentor and use the optional essay to explain why you chose the recommender you did.
74	If we're admitted to MMM, and decide to switch to MBA/MBAi program, can we do that?	If you are admitted to MMM, but are interested in a program transfer after being admitted, there are no guarantees that a program transfer will be granted as these seats are allocated to applicants who designated these programs in their application. At the time of admission, you can indicate an alternative choice program. If we are not able to admit you to your first choice program, we will consider you for your alternative choice. We encourage you to be intentional about your program of choice and how that program can meet your goals.
75	Hi! Thanks for hosting this session. Will we be able to rewatch the recorded version after the session ends?	The recording will not be shared. If you have any questions after the session, please email mbaadmissions@kellogg.northwestern.edu
76	Will low GRE candidate be filtered out for interviews?	We do not have any minimum test score requirements. We do not share details behind our evaluation process, but your test score will not make or break your chances of being interviewed as part of the application process.
77	My partner and I are thinking of applying together. Could you tell me a bit more about how the Partner application works?	Each application is reviewed as individual applications and we will consider your eligibility separately. Although there is no benefit to applying together, we welcome applications from partners.
78	Have there been any notable shifts in recruiting trends for Kellogg's most recent graduating class, especially with the rapid rise of GenAI? I'm also curious how Kellogg is evolving its curriculum and career support to help students stay ahead of these changes."	It may be too soon to tell if recruiting will change due to AI over the coming years, but we are getting ahead of the curve by increasing AI & Machine Learning academic expertise and offerings at Kellogg. You can learn more about our newest AI & Machine Learning courses here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/ne ... -learning/. Additionally, our Career Management Center is equipped to help students navigate the recruiting and job search process with consideration to the use of AI in new business practices (example: AI search bots for recruiting)
79	Has Kellogg released average GMAT Focus test scores?	Our current class profile does not include this information since the test format is relatively new.
80	I plan to use the MBA to pivot in my career from education to nonprofit. However, much of my experience, hence the content of my essays, will reflect my work in education as opposed to nonprofit. Would that be a problem?	This is not a problem. We have many students who pivot careers. We do encourage you to share how you plan to use your past experience to help pivot to a new industry.
81	Are there a lot of elite investment banking boutiques recruiting for associate positions?	We encourage you to check out our employment reports so you can see the various firms that recruit from Kellogg https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/co ... -outcomes/
82	How do admissions committees view diplomas completed while working?	We have a holistic review process that considers your experience and accomplishments in the context of who you are as an individual. For example, working while completing your degree could indicate that you are balanced, you have good time management, and you are committed to your education. We look for the values, interests, and goals underlined by your experiences.
83	Hi! If my GRE test scores expire between just barely after the Round 1 deadline, am I able to submit them?	Your test scores need to be valid at the time of submitting your application. It is okay if they will expire by the time you begin the program (if admitted), but you must be able to request official test scores to be sent to Kellogg in the event you are admitted.
84	Do you publish the average test score for the new GMAT FE?	Our current class profile does not include this since the test is relatively new.
85	What does "doing well" in undergrad look like for your team if an applicant has a 25th percentile test score?	This really depends on your particular situation, but we'd encourage you to highlight coursework from undergrad that highlights your ability to handle the curriculum at Kellogg.
86	how important are the toefl scores for international students? if I have a good score for gmat/gre, would it matter if my toefl score is relatively weak (around 110-115) compared to my gmat/gre score?	The TOEFL/IELTS/DET is just one way in which we gain insight into English proficiency. There are no minimums or maximums associated with the score; we use the application holistically to assess readiness for success in the classroom and community.
87	For English language proficiency tests for internationals, you said: 2. The applicant completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at a college or university where English was the ONLY language of instruction" . Does this include also for instance if someone did his/her Masters in English in Erasmus University Rotterdam ?	International students may qualify for an exemption if one of the following criteria is met: 1. The applicant completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at a college or university in the United States. 2. The applicant completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at a college or university where English was the ONLY language of instruction. 3. The applicant has worked in the United States or another English-speaking nation for at least two consecutive years within the last 5 years.
88	Can you talk about orientation for newly admitted students?	We have orientation at the start of all of our FTMBA programs. We also provide onboarding information between the time students are admitted and the time they arrive on campus.
89	Hello! How do you all calculate GPA? Do you just take the one from the university the undergrad degree was conferred from? Do you include classes taken at another university/community college before graduation into the calculation, include post bacc classes, etc.? and is MS gpa/degree weighed at all?	We ask that you list GPAs exactly as they appear on the transcripts.
90	For extracurriculars on resume, if we choose to highlight involvement, should it be more about impact or the type of role we held and elaborate in the extracurricular section of the application?	Feel free to use your resume space in a way that best highlights your achievements and work experience thus far. The extracurricular section is a great space for sharing any organizations or activities you are involved in.
91	So, I am not sure whether that's a yes or no. Does the 2nd point include also for instance if someone did his/her Masters in English in Erasmus University Rotterdam ?	A graduate degree where English was the ONLY language of instruction may qualify for exemption however we do not offer exemption based upon your specific University
92	How has the Global Hub impacted The Kellogg culture?	The Global Hub building was intentionally designed to offer open, collaborative spaces for students to connect in, network, and work together. A great example is our personal rendition of the famous Spanish Steps in Rome. The steps in the heart of the Global Hub offer students a space to collaborate, building connections, and complete their work between classes. Kellogg's collaborative culture would not be what it is today without the intentional planning of the Global Hub building.
93	Has the motto shifted from low ego, high impact to high impact, high empathy?	All three of these are important to Kellogg - low ego, high impact and empathy!
94	Should GRE scores from ETS be sent before the application is submitted, or only after being admitted?	We encourage you to have your official scores sent from ETS when they are available, however you can apply with your unofficial test scores in a pdf or screenshot.
95	What are scholarships % per student across MBA/MBAi/MMM programs? Is there any reports you can share about scholarship?	We do not track this information as our funding for scholarships changes from year to year.
96	When writing resume bullet points, would you recommend to follow a STAR-like structure or focus predominantly on results? Which makes the most impact in a quick scan?	We recommend using the method that you feel best represents your experiences and accomplishments. There is no "right" way to craft your resume, as long as you keep it to one page (preferably)!
97	Does applying in Round 2 truncate your chances for scholarships?	We offer merit based scholarships during all rounds of admission.
98	Do you recommend applying through the Consortium?	We view applications the same way whether they are submitted directly to us or through the Consortium.
99	Does scholarship availability vary between application rounds?	We offer scholarships during all rounds of our application.
100	How has the admission review process changed this year in comparison to the previous years?	We continue to look for the same attributes in candidates as we have in the past.
101	What time is the application due on September 10th?	The application is due at 5 pm Central Time.
102	For ways you can contribute to community at Kellogg, is it okay to talk about sharing your passion and interests with your future class in the essays, or should these contributions be more professional world focused?	Yes, you are welcome to share both!
103	For students who want to return to their home country post-MBA, say, India, how does Kellogg support such career transitions?	Kellogg's Career Management Center equips students and alumni with the tools and training to proactively manage their careers. Kellogg creates opportunities for top employers around the world and across industries to connect with students and alumni year-round including after graduation
104	Currently I am not working for any companies so I wanna ask 2 of my latest supervisor to write my LOR, and one of them are entrepreneur, so he doesn't have the professional email. Where can I put the explanation for this?	You can explain this in the optional essay.
105	How can students get involved in trip planning for KWEST (as opposed to just leading a single KWEST)?	For specific questions regarding KWEST, please contact our Global Experience Office: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/th ... s/contact/
106	Given the rapid advances in AI, how is Kellogg preparing students to re-enter the workforce and effectively leverage these tools?	We have several new courses that focus on AI and preparing students in this regard - please check out our blog post with more information! https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/ne ... -learning/
107	is there anything that typically crops up from newly enrolled students that they commonly mention they wished they had known while applying that you could share with us?	Some students are surprised at how quickly recruiting starts, so having some clear thought about your career path and alternate options can be very helpful!
108	Could you speak a bit more to Kellogg's approach to applicants from sustainability, impact or the development sector?	We'd encourage you to check out the social impact section of our website - https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/ac ... inability/
109	Is there any advantage to being a Northwestern alum?	While we love seeing Northwestern alumni go "double purple," there is no competitive advantage of being a previous Northwestern student in the application process.
110	For the 1Y program applying in R1, can we take up the extra required courses after we get an admit?	Yes, you can apply without having the pre-enrollment courses completed, they will just need to be complete with a grade of B or higher before the start of the program in June.
111	In the first Essay, with 450 words, how do you balance focusing on Why an MBA vs Why Now vs How would you accomplish it at Kellogg? It's not a large amount of space to answer 3 big questions, what is Kellogg most interested in learning?	Your approach to answering the written essay questions is up to you! We cannot provide presciptive advice as to how you should answer the questions, but feel free to use your application real estate to address the questions in other ways. There are plenty of opportunities to share these insights in the application, whether it be the written essays, video essays, or other free response areas of the application.
112	Are recommendation letters from current supervisors or colleagues that know us well, who are also a Kellogg alum and/or an active Kellogg Board or Council member, weighed more heavily?	They are not weighed more heavily but your recommender may indicate in the recommendation that they are a Kellogg alum
113	what is the guidance on visa for parter abd child if youare an international	If admitted, our international advising team can give you more guidance on this aspect of the process.
114	What considerations are given when determining whether an applicant receives scholarship money?	We do not share details reagrding the scholarship selection process with prospective students. We offer both merit-based and need-based scholarships and financial aid.
115	How does the culture of collaboration and teamwork translate into the classroom and ECs on campus? Are there structures in place that support this culture or is the culture realized primarily through attracting students with these qualities?	It is both formal and informal. Many classes have team projects, but also the culture of collaboration does attract students with these qualities so you see a lot of teamwork informally outside of the classroom as well.
116	Does Kellogg have a sample of Leadership Grid categories and rating scales?	No, we don't have a leadership grid/rating scales. We understand that applicants apply with varying degrees of leadership experience. While we are interested in your leadership skills, we are also interested in your potential.
117	Thanks for the session Can you throw some light on the MMM program and the 1-year MBA program?	For more information on these programs, please take a look at our website and please consider joining our specialty program webinar on August 27th where you can learn more!
118	Would love to hear more about what kind of applicant you're looking for and the culture at Kellogg!	You can learn more about what we look for in applicants here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/ad ... -to-apply/. We recommend checking out our class profile to see who is coming to Kellogg this fall. You can learn about the culture and student experience of Kellogg here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/the-experience/
119	Is there any scholarship that cover 100% of the tuition?	Yes, we do offer some full tuition scholarships.
120	Which candidates don't get invited to even interview?	We strive to interview as many candidates as possible.
121	May I ask are there RA or TA availabilities?	These opportunities vary from year to year and are usually not posted until the fall, after the start of the program.
122	Will there be on campus tours this fall? I looked at the events section of your website and I only noticed online and traveling sessions. I would love to get a chance to visit the campus soon!	Our campus visit will resume in late September or early October. Please keepan eye on our website for upcoming events.
123	If we shared the official GRE (or GMAT) scores already, do you need an unofficial form too? Iâ€TMm asking as I see the required box in the portal	Yes, please upload your unofficial score report with your application. It can take time for us to receive your official scores from the testing agencies and we may not have them by the time you submit your application.
124	Do internships count as work experience when you think about years of experience?	We only consider full time work experience post graduation. If you are currently a rising senior in your undergrad, you may want to consider our Kellogg Future Leaders program (deferred enrollment program).
125	Is there any way to get an application fee waiver?	The Kellogg School will grant an application fee waiver for active-duty U.S. military applicants or U.S. military veterans. Fee waivers will also be granted to candidates who are currently employed by Teach for America, Title 1 schools, the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, or those who have successfully completed their commitment within the past three years. At this time, we do not offer fee waivers for financial hardship or event attendance.
126	Do the adcom consider applicant with GPA below GPA, because i noticed that you only speak on low test score	Yes, we absolutely consider applicants with GPAs that fall below our average. This is just one metric we use to evaluate your application. You can always use the optional essay to explain lower grades or anything else you would like the admissions committee to be aware of.
127	Can international students request a GMAT or GRE test waiver? If yes, then how?	We do not provide a waiver for the GMAT or GRE.
128	can GMAT score be self-reported or do you need the official score report with the application? If I am submitting multiple test scores do I need to send an official report for each attempt?	We only require the unofficial score report with your application. It can take time for scores to be sent to us from testing agencies, so we need your unofficial score report with your application. If you are submitting multiple scores then we will need the reports for each
129	my transcript doesn't have a standard GPA but percentage, is there any official converter that is suggested to use in such case?	It is not necessary to have your grades converted to the 4.0 scale. We are well versed in other grade formats. You will however need to make sure your transcript is translated into English if in another language.
130	I missed the response on work experience, and till when it's counted, till the time I apply or till the time I join the program, could you repeat please?	Years of work experience is considered up until the time of matriculation. So, if you currently have 2.5 years of work experience, you will have about 3.5 years of work experience when you join - this is the number we're interested in.
131	Are scores super scored? Is it recommended to submit multiple scores?	We look at the highest total score. We do not super score.
132	For international applicants, are interviews conducted virtually or offline?	All interviews are virtual
133	I switched jobs a few days back so if I'm planning to apply in R1 then I'll barely have anything to talk about my current gig. How do I prepare my resume in this case?	Congrats on your new job! Please include the scope of your responsibilities as they stand today - we'll see from your dates that this is a new position. You can always use the additional essay to provide further context AND, if you are granted an interview, you can talk more in depth then.
134	How long does it typically take to hear if you receive a virtual interview after you complete the video essay?	We send interview invites on a rolling basis throughout the review process. Interviews may take place up until decision release
135	Is the admissions office in the Global Hub?	Yes!
136	So, if someone is working in a family business setup, is there something one needs to highlight in the optional essay section.	We have many applicants who come from a family business and if you feel that you need to provide further context regarding your role, yes, the optional essay is a great place to do that.
137	Can we self-report GRE test scores if the official report hasn't arrived by the time of application deadline? (and send the official as soon as we receive it)	Yes, only official test scores are required at the time of the application deadline
138	Thanks for the session. Do reapplicants need new recs (in the sense should I ask the recommenders to send one again) or the ones which were submitted in the previous cycle are carried forward? Thanks.	We are very re-applicant friendly and the process is simple. All re-applicants will need to start with a fresh application including new materials, recommendation letters, video essays, and application fee. We do not offer fee waivers or discounts for re-applicants. If your test scores are still valid from your initial application, you do not need to re-submit them to Kellogg. The only difference in the application process for re-applicants is that you'll need to complete a short essay question to fill us in on what you've been up to since you first applied.
139	What are the best ways to learn about the course/ life that Kellogg has to offer aside from talking to alums and checking out the website?	If you're able to I highly recommend attending a campus visit. If not, connecting with current students will help you learn more about the student life and courses.
140	Sorry, but I joined a little late. Can we access the recording at a later stage?	The recording will not be shared. If you have any questions after the session, please email mbaadmissions@kellogg.northwestern.edu
141	If we have given GMAT multiple times, do we need to report all the scores or is the best score alone enough?	It is not required to share all scores, we will only consider your highest overall score
142	What is the approximate admission rate for reapplicants each yearï1⁄4Ÿ Thank you for your response	Hello, we do not track or share that information. You can access our 2026 Class Profile here: https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/pr ... s-profile/
143	Are physical copies of the transcript required, or will an electronic version suffice? Also, when is it necessary to request a physical copy?	Electronic copies are accepted
144	Can you send updates about work progression (e.g., promotion) after submitting the application?	Yes, there will be an application update form available in your application portal
145	Are campus visits limited? I am waiting for the slots to open up but, I'm wondering if they fill fast?	We do have a capacity for the visits but there is a waitlist if you register later. Please continue to check our events website for these dates to be published soon
146	I'm curious to know approximately what percentage of students in each entering class are reapplicants?	We do not track or share this information.
147	Quick clarification on your answer: "Yes, only official test scores are required at the time of the application deadline" do you mean unofficial or official? If it's official, we cannot self-report GRE test scores?	Sorry about that only unofficial scores are required when you apply. If admitted we require official scores to be sent Kellogg Admissions 09:13 PM Class visits are in person/on campus in Evanston

FTMBA Application FAQ for 25-26 Cycle | Kellogg School of Management

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