UC Berkeley’s Walter A. Haas School of Business is regarded as one of the best business schools in the world and is frequently ranked in the top 5 worldwide. Haas, which was established in 1898, places a high value on working across academic fields to solve practical commercial and societal issues. With eminent faculty members including three Nobel laureates in Economics, the school follows an intellectually rigorous, analytics-driven approach. The culture facilitates lifelong peer bonding with values of confidence, leadership, ethics, and societal responsibility beyond oneself. The Haas School of Business offers a dynamic and forward-thinking education that empowers education combined with access to over 45,000 alumni and catalyzes promising career pathways after graduation.
What’s unique about Berkeley Haas?
Leadership Principles – The curriculum at Haas is filled with four defining principles of leadership: Questioning the Status Quo, Confidence Without Attitude, Students Always, and Beyond Yourself. These guidelines help students develop into morally and strategically sound leaders.
Culture of Collaboration – Haas fosters an open, collaborative culture rather than a competitive one. Students are encouraged to work together through study groups, team projects, clubs, and more. Core values built into the program emphasize confidence without arrogance, questioning assumptions, and considering decision impacts on wider society. This facilitates bonding.
Cross-Disciplinary Focus – As part of UC Berkeley, Haas collaborates across disciplines like computer science, engineering, sciences, public policy, law, etc. The Berkeley method of “learning by doing” gets integrated across Haas programs through experiential projects, case studies, and simulations that tackle real multifaceted problems.
Entrepreneurial mindset – Through competitions, venture capital funds, and mentoring, organizations such as the Centre for Entrepreneurship & Technology encourage the growth of an entrepreneurial attitude.
Class Profile
Academic Statistics
| Class of 2025 | |
|---|---|
| Class Size | 244 |
| Applications Submitted | NA |
| Average GPA | 3.64 |
| Average Age | NA |
| International Students | 41% |
| Countries Represented | 45 |
| Female Students | 46% |
| Average GMAT | 733 |
| Average GRE (Verbal / Quant) | 161/163 |
| % Reported GRE | NA |
| Average Work Ex | 5.8 years |
The Berkeley Haas School of Business Class of 2025 boasts strong academic credentials with the median GPA being 3.64 and average GMAT of an impressive 733. The class reflects good diversity with 41% being international students. Women comprise 46% of the incoming class, attesting to Haas’s commitment to inclusion. With an average work experience of 5.8 years, the class brings in maturity alongside qualifications. In terms of academic backgrounds, 50% have undergraduate degrees in Business/Economics/Engineering. The prominence of Consulting and Finance as key pre-MBA sectors continues with their commensurate 24% and 16% representation. Thus holistically, the Haas Class of 2025 enters with a well-rounded mix of standout prior performances, global orientations, key competencies, and experiences to actively contribute towards the experiential learning at Berkeley Haas.
Berkeley Haas MBA Application Guide
Choosing an MBA program? Berkeley Haas School of Business stands out in its glory, promising students an experience that will transform them. The program offers a unique curriculum through multiple specializations that are tailored to innovative leadership, social impact, and entrepreneurship of those who want meaningful changes in the industries. Here, this guide answers some FAQs concerning the Berkeley Haas MBA program, such as admission requirements and acceptance rates, etc.
This guide shows what it will take to become part of the Haas community and how that may shape your future, whether you pivot into a new career, advance in your field, or start your venture.
What is the Berkeley Haas MBA Program acquiring rate?
The MBA program at Berkeley Haas School of Business is highly selective and admits only 17% to 18% of total applicants to its full-time MBA program. Qualified candidates are expected to have leadership traits, solid work experience, and high academic aptitude.
What is the Berkeley Haas MBA Cost?
For a two-year full-time MBA program, the program cost estimate runs between $115,616 and $127,862 when tuition and other institutional costs are included. Added to these estimates are accommodation, food, and health insurance.
Estimated Tuition Fees for the 2024-2025 Academic Year*
Item | California Resident | Non-Resident |
Tuition and Fees | $73,160 | $85,406 |
Housing and Food | $28,428 | $28,428 |
Books and Supplies | $734 | $734 |
Transportation | $3,682 | $3,682 |
Health Insurance | $6,442 | $6,442 |
Personal Expenses | $3,170 | $3,170 |
Total Budget | $115,616 | $127,862 |
*U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents can obtain California Residency by the second year of their graduate studies. This may help students save around $4000 by obtaining the residency. For more details, you may refer to https://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/costs-and-financial-aid.
Does Berkeley Haas offer loans and scholarships?
Berkeley Haas offers a plethora of scholarships or loans to the MBA students. These can either be awarded purely on a student’s merit or to those who demonstrate a need. These scholarships automatically go to all applicants applying with a very strong application, and without requiring further forms (unless specified).
Scholarships are awarded at admission and additional opportunities may be available for the second year. Notable scholarships include:
Need-Based Fellowships
The following are some of the need-based grants:
- Jimenez Family Fellowship: This fellowship is open to United States citizens who show evidence of financial need and are enrolled in the MBA program.
- Ma McFarland Fellowship: Generously donated by Christina Ma McFarland and Jason McFarland. This fellowship is granted to students who exhibit financial necessity.
Centers and Institutes Fellowships
The following are some of the Centers and Institutes Fellowships:
- Center for Equity, Gender, & Leadership (EGAL) Fellowship: The EGAL has given two-year fellowship support to students who demonstrate their commitment to diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces and their desire to support the EGAL at Berkeley Haas. The chosen fellows will be members of the EGAL MBA Board, communicating on behalf of student media, and corporate requests, and will manage to post two blogs per academic year on the EGAL blog. This is approximately an 8-12 hour commitment for every semester. The advantages of being chosen as an EGAL fellow include access to EGAL events, experience working on social issues, and enhanced employment prospects.
- Center for Responsible Business (CRB) Fellowship: The CRB fellowship is conferred upon candidates who best exemplify their commitment towards responsible sustainable business practices and their intent to volunteer and work with the CRB at Berkeley Haas. Every year, one individual is chosen who earned the title of “CRB Fellow.” This person acts as the liaison between the CRB and the Haas student body and receives a direct placement on the CRB Student Advisory Board.
Merit-Based Scholarships
The following are some of the merit-based grants:
- Allan Holt Scholarship: This particular scholarship is offered to those students who make efforts to enhance diversity and cultivate learning atmosphere within the Haas School of Business.
- Berkeley Haas Scholarship: These Scholarships come in different amounts and types and are awarded to admitted students who show excellence, commitment, and advocacy in the following academic areas:
- Academic Preparedness
- Consortium Fellowships
- Gender Equity
- Distinctive Contributors in Industry
- Leadership
- LGBTQ
- Personal Achievement
- Blue Duck Scholarship: This scholarship is funded by alumnus John Natt (MBA ’69) and is given to MBA candidates who obtained their bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon.
- Brian Maxwell Fellowship: This fellowship is given to those who possess the spirit of self-entrepreneurship and the desire to excel in innovative projects, products, and ideas.
- C & J White Fellowship: It is awarded to MBA candidates pursuing careers in finance.
- Dr. Tahir Fellowship: This scholarship is offered to foreign students specifically to those who have received their bachelor’s education in Asia provided by the generosity of Dr. Dato’ Sri Tahir.
- Galloway MBA Fellowship: This fellowship is made generously by Mr. Scott Galloway and aligned with the Galloway Scholars Program at Berkeley Haas, which is, in a way, dedicated to scholars who are part of the Full-Time MBA Program in Haas School of Business. It is to ensure that opportunities exist for children of immigrant families.
- Haas HBCU MBA Fellowship: It is awarded to students with a degree from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and/or students who have actively engaged in diversity, equity, and inclusivity activism.
- Henrique Ceribelli MBA Fellowship: This fellowship is targeted to MBA students studying in locations other than the one where their undergraduate level was earned, especially open to those who have earned their prior degree in Latin America.
- Mike and Carol Meyer Fellowship: This award is for students with an undergraduate degree in the fields of engineering or science as well as students who plan to have an entrepreneurial career.
- Song Feiqing Fellowship: The award provides support to Full-time MBA students who exhibit outstanding performance with preference given to candidates of foreign nationalities, especially from China who will be seeking to engage in business in Southeast Asia as well as China upon graduation.
- Tirado Fellowship: This scholarship funded by Steven Tirado is given based on prior achievements in diversity.
- Torres Family Fellowship: This fellowship grants awards to MBA students with a focus on those who were born in California and show great leadership potential.
- Ulatowski Fellowship: It is targeted at those MBA candidates who completed their studies in Poland or Ukraine.
- Yellow Ribbon Fellowship: The Yellow Ribbon Program enables U.S. military veterans who served 36 months or more and are eligible for 100% Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits, to avail of funding options.
Funds are not guaranteed but are awarded based on eligibility and the quality of the application.
Additionally, MBA loans are considered a secondary option, after pursuing scholarship opportunities. The major loan options that are open to a Full-time Berkeley MBA student include Federal Loans, private loans, and International student loans. Berkeley Haas has a very strong Loan Repayment Assistance Program for Full-time MBA students who work in public interest, public service, or other social institutions.
What are the requirements to do an MBA from UC Berkeley?
- Online application
- Essays
- GMAT or GRE scores
- University Transcripts
- Two professional letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Interview conducted by invite-only
- Application fee
Requirement for International students:
- A bachelor’s degree or respected correspondent from an accredited institution.
- Minimum of 16 years of schooling with at least 12 years of primary and secondary.
- Official academic records submission from each academic institution attended after secondary/high school. Official records issued from institutions shall be in their original language and contain the official translation into English.
- Those who have graduated from schools outside of the US, UK, Australia, English-speaking Canada, or Singapore are required to take a test in TOEFL or IELTS unless that university’s language of instruction is English.
For more, you can refer to: https://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/admissions/international-applicants
Requirements for reapplicants:
A reapplicant is a student who applied to one of the Berkeley MBA programs in two prior years. But if the application was incomplete or withdrawn you are not considered as reapplicant.
- Valid test scores
- Employment section (including current resume)
- Education section, and a transcript of any new coursework completed
- Video essay
- New essay question (if applicable)
- A statement outlining how you have improved your candidacy since your last application
- Applicant acknowledgement
- Application fee
- Use the same email address as your previous application (if applicable)
In addition, you are encouraged to submit one or two new letters of recommendation. A recent letter of recommendation will only strengthen your professional achievement and leadership potential. Updating any other application materials is optional.
For more, you can refer: https://mba.haas.berkeley.edu/admissions/reapplying
The attention of the evaluators is not limited to the academic and career successes of the applicants, but their congruence with Berkeley Haas’s defining leadership principles, for instance, confidence without attitude, questioning the Status Quo, and so on.
Berkeley Haas MBA Deadlines?
The MBA application deadlines for UC Berkeley business school:
Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 3 |
Deadline: September 12, 2024 | Deadline: January 9, 2025 | Deadline: April 3, 2025 |
Decision: December 12, 2024 | Decision: March 27, 2025 | Decision: May 8, 2025 |
However, please check the official website for the most recent information because the deadlines and admission decisions may have been adjusted at some point.
What rankings does Berkeley Haas MBA have?
Berkeley Haas is one of the ten best MBA schools in the world and is appreciated for factors such as innovation, leadership, and social impact. It takes advantage of the proximity of the technology hotspots and culture for learners who are passionate about technology and entrepreneurship.
Berkeley Haas by the Numbers:
- Global Ranking: #7 (current ranking for MBA programs globally)
- Class Composition: 42% of women as part of the class of 2026
- Class Size: 295 students in the class of 2026.
Through its quality curricula and concentration area in entrepreneurship and technology, Haas gives individuals in these fields of professions a perfect base.
Berkeley Haas Undergraduate Program?
Besides MBA programs, Haas has an acclaimed undergraduate business program, among the few selective business programs in the US, and is indulged in banking, consulting, and technology.
How much does it cost to pursue the Evening and Weekend MBA Program?
The Evening & Weekend MBA Program has a separate type of price setting that is based on per unit price. For the 2024-25 academic year each unit is $3,819. There are 42 units required for the degree for an estimated total cost of $160,398. Fees typically increase each academic year.
For more, you can refer: https://ewmba.haas.berkeley.edu/admissions/faq#cost-and-financing
What is the Berkeley Executive MBA tuition?
The tuition fee of the Executive MBA program is about $212,000 for the 22-month program which is charged in instalments five times. For more, you can refer to the official website of Berkeley Haas.
Why Choose Berkeley Haas?
Students opt for Berkeley Haas because of the values that underpin their leadership education, strong experiential learning, and partnerships within Silicon Valley. It also promotes creativity and does not encourage its students to accept things as they are. Situated in the San Francisco Bay Area has some advantages in terms of contacts, especially in the technology and business field.
Conclusion
The Berkeley Haas MBA is a gateway to networking on a global level, leadership opportunities, and personal transformation. With an emphasis on experiential learning, the culture is collaborative, and it makes way for innovation, ensuring Haas keeps moving up its ranks of the top choices for professionals who want to make an impact while making their dream of joining the Haas community a reality through careful planning and excellent application.
We hope this FAQ guide has helped answer some of the key questions you may have and provided important insight into one of the world’s leading MBA programs. When you’re ready for that next step, we hope you start preparing now Haas could be the place from where your journey to the top starts.
Our Support for Berkeley Haas MBA Application
If you seek to gain admission to UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and access its high-impact MBA program, we can support that goal through comprehensive admissions advisory. The MBA Edge Haas application mentoring methodology revolves around you – comprehending your unique experiences and aptitudes and conveying your candidature authentically. Through customized coaching, our abroad MBA Consultant shares perspectives on sharpening your essays, resume, and interview preparation to position you as a promising Haas candidate. Our specialists further advise on optimally highlighting any career transitions, gaps, or vulnerabilities. With a tailored approach intently focused on Haas, we empower you to bring out your best self. Our support through the application process not only strives to secure your admission but more crucially prepares you to thrive at Berkeley Haas.
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