The Foster School of Business at the University of Washington delivers a comprehensive Full-Time MBA program blending rigorous academics with experiential learning. While allowing students to focus on entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, or technology management, the program covers all the essentials of business. Foster values contributions from a variety of backgrounds because the program places a strong emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration. Through collaborations with Seattle’s thriving business community, students can attain experiences and insights that are unmatched. Leadership, creativity, and environmentally friendly business methods are also covered in the program. Upon strengthening these foundational components, graduates of Foster become skilled in addressing intricate business issues and making valuable contributions in various sectors.
What’s unique about Foster School of Business?
- Experiential Learning Opportunities: At Foster School of Business, students engage directly in business projects, bridging theory with practice. Initiatives like the Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition program offer firsthand experience in business acquisition and management.
- Emphasis on Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Foster stimulates innovative thinking, preparing students to become forward-thinking entrepreneurs. The Buerk Center for Entrepreneurship stands as the epicenter for entrepreneurial pursuits, offering mentors and funding for emerging business leaders. Foster Business School hosts competitions like the Dempsey Startup to help students evolve ideas into businesses.
- Sustainable Business Practices: Foster embeds sustainability within its curriculum, preparing students to tackle environmental and social obstacles in businesses. Foster Business School has a Center for Sustainable Business imparts skills necessary for leading sustainable initiatives, with specialized paths including sustainable systems and environmental management.
- Strong Ties to the Seattle Business Community: Situated in a prosperous area for tech and innovation, Foster enjoys robust bonds with Seattle’s business community, including giants like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing. This proximity facilitates networking, imparts industry understanding, and opens career avenues for our students, enhanced by guest lectures and mentorship programs.
- Inclusive and Collaborative Learning Environment: Foster commitment lies in creating a learning space that values and integrates diverse perspectives. Foster MBA program emphasizes team projects and interactive learning, enabling students to value differences and hone collaboration skills – key competencies in the global business market.
Class Profile
Academic Statistics
| Class of 2025 | |
|---|---|
| Class Size | 111 |
| Applications Submitted | NA |
| Median GPA | 3.3 |
| Average Age | 29 |
| International Students | 56% |
| Countries Represented | NA |
| Female Students | 47% |
| Average GMAT | 710 |
| Median GRE (Quant/verbal) | 164/158 |
| % Reported GRE | NA |
| Average Work Ex | 6 years |
The Foster School of Business at the University of Washington attracts a highly accomplished and diverse MBA class. The Full-Time MBA program’s Class of 2025 has an average GMAT score of 692 and an average GPA of 3.4, demonstrating strong academic abilities. Around 30% of students are international, representing over 20 countries and bringing a global perspective. The class averages 5 years of professional work experience before enrollment. Students come from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds such as business/economics (35%), engineering/computer science (28%), and humanities/social sciences (20%). Their pre-MBA employment spans multiple sectors like technology, consulting, financial services, and manufacturing. This diverse cohort allows for a rich classroom experience with students bringing different viewpoints and experiences. Overall, Foster cultivates an exceptional MBA class that is prepared to tackle complex business challenges through its rigorous curriculum and supportive learning environment.
Foster School of Business Application Guide
Foster School of Business stands at the forefront of educational excellence in Seattle. Here, students are being prepared with the skills and knowledge to redefine their professional journey. Famous for being innovative, with a diverse student body, and connected with leading industries, Foster offers MBA programs for aspiring leaders to succeed in a globalised environment.
Foster’s MBA Program is very flexible and customisable. Among the concentrations available are entrepreneurship, technology management, finance, marketing, and leadership. Foster has all the resources for individuals who want to switch careers, add to their expertise, or start their businesses.
What is the Foster School MBA Program acquiring rate?
UW Foster MBA Acceptance Rate (2023): At 35% as of 2023, the acceptance rate of the UW Foster MBA program shows how tough its admissions process is to emerge only among the best.
Reference: https://www.joinleland.com/library/a/uw-foster-mba-acceptance-rates#:~:text=MBA%20acceptance%20rates.-,UW%20Foster%20MBA%20Acceptance%20Rate%20(2023),most%20qualified%20candidates%20are%20admitted.
What is the Foster School MBA Cost?
Tuition and fee rates are determined by the Washington State Legislature and authorised by the Board of Regents of the University of Washington.
MBA Program Tuition & Fees for 2024-2025
Quarterly Tuition | Quarterly Fees | Tuition & Fees per Academic Year (3 Quarters) | Total Program Cost, Including Tuition & Fees | |
Resident | $13,352 | $368 | $41,160 | $82,320 |
Non-Resident | $18,909 | $368 | $57,831 | $115,662 |
Other Estimated Expenses, Based on Latest Available Estimates** | Per Year (12 month) Estimate |
Room and Board | $29,668 |
Books | $1,100 |
Local Transportation | $2,108 |
Personal Expenses | $3,344 |
MBA Association Membership Dues (paid once for two years) | $450 |
Estimate of MBA Club Dues (paid once for two years) | $200 |
Health | $3,600 |
- Such a quarterly fee may change yearly and, consequently, affect the overall billing.
- Information provided by the Office of Student Financial Aid.
- For sole occupants in one-bedroom apartments. Rent prices may be different depending on the housing circumstances.
- Reference: https://foster.uw.edu/academics/degree-programs/full-time-mba/tuition-and-fees/
Does Foster School offer loans and scholarships?
Financing Your MBA
The tuition and living expenses for Foster MBA students are hefty. An average student manages to cover these expenses through educational loans, scholarships, and other sources of funding.
Foster Scholarships
Merit-based Scholarships
- Both domestic and international candidates can apply for scholarships from the Foster School of Business, and they are automatically considered based on application factors such as GMAT/GRE scores, GPA, professional experience, and interviews. Priority consideration is given to applicants in Rounds 1 to 2. ROMBA and Forté Fellowships also require expressing qualifications and interest in optional essay #4 on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
- In addition to the above factors, Foster may award any of the following merit-based fellowships to the most competitive, qualifying applicants:
- Forté Fellowship
- The Consortium Fellowship
- Ernest I.J. Aguilar Endowed MBA Fellowship
- Reaching Out MBA Fellowship
Outside Scholarships
- Women and Other Underrepresented Minorities: This site’s Diversity Resources page has compiled various opportunities for scholarships sponsored by Foster and external entities.
- International Students: Fulbright, Muskie Fellowships, AAUW International Fellowships, and government international scholarships for their graduate study abroad. EducationUSA Advising Centers provide scholarships, applications to US schools, visas, and other forms of help in preparation for studies. EduPASS has some general tips regarding financial aid for international students seeking graduate study in the USA.
- U.S. Veterans and Spouses/Children of U.S. Veterans: At the University of Washington, U.S. veterans and their families receive the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which allows waivers on part of tuition and GMAT/GRE processing fees. Foster MBA candidates have applied under the Tillman Military Scholars Program and Military MBA Scholarships. Get more details on the reimbursement process from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Federal Loans
Domestic Foster MBA students can borrow Stafford/Ford loans up to $20,500 each year based on citizenship or residency in the U.S., no prior default on federal loans, and draft registration if needed. An aid eligibility letter is sent to approved applicants based on their FAFSA status. Other loans like GPLUS are also available to them.
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The hope is that U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens will file the FAFSA to get federal aid, UW Family Housing, Childcare Assistance, and Foster need-based scholarships. File it by January 15 (the priority deadline) listing “University of Washington-Seattle”. Late submissions may limit scholarship eligibility but leave the aid for processing through UW Financial Aid.
Private Loans
Students can use private loans to cover educational expenses but should take federal loans first to enjoy benefits such as flexible repayment terms and loan forgiveness. International students may access private loans with a U.S. co-signer or direct loans at home. Independent research is strongly encouraged, and students may borrow from any lender.
Second-Year MBA Work
New Foster MBA students should not work in their first year of study. Most do summer internships for pay, while second-year students may work part-time as teaching assistants and earn about $3,000/month. Some other part-time off-campus work matches the students’ career aspirations after the MBA.
Reference: https://foster.uw.edu/academics/degree-programs/full-time-mba/tuition-and-fees/
What are the demands of doing an MBA from Foster?
Each application requires the following:
- Online Application Profile
- Required Essays (2), Optional Essays (2)
- Resume
- Letters of Recommendation (2)
- Official GMAT or GRE score report or completed “Test Optional Summary of Qualifications.”
- Transcripts from a completed four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university or the equivalent
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Video Interview Submission (Instructions are emailed to applicants 1-3 days after the application round deadline)
- Non-Refundable Application Fee ($90)
Reference: https://foster.uw.edu/academics/degree-programs/full-time-mba/admissions/
Foster School MBA Deadlines?
Foster School offers diverse MBA programs, including full-time, part-time, and executive programs.
Program | Deadlines | Enrollment |
Full-time MBA | Round 1: October 1st, 2024 Round 2: January 7th, 2025 (International) Round 3: March 12th, 2025 (Domestic) | Autumn Quarter |
Evening MBA | Round 1: February 11th, 2025 Round 2: April 8th, 2025 Round 3: June 3rd, 2025 | Autumn Quarter |
Executive MBA | December 1 February 1 April 1 | Autumn Quarter |
Hybrid MBA | February 3, 2024 April 20, 2024 June 15, 2024 | Autumn Quarter |
Technology Management MBA | May 1, 2024 June 24, 2024 August 1, 2024 | Winter Quarter |
Global Executive MBA | October 15, 2024 January 16, 2025 April 1, 2025 | Summer quarter |
Reference: https://foster.uw.edu/apply/
What ranking does Foster School MBA have?
The University of Washington (Foster) secured rank No. 27 (tie) out of 124 in Best Business Schools and No. 10 (tie) out of 269 in Part-time MBA. The schools were evaluated according to specific indices signifying excellent performances.
Foster School by the Numbers:
- Global Ranking: #27
- Class Composition: 210 enrolled.
- Class Size: The percentage of women is 44.8%.
Reference: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/university-of-washington-seattle-campus-01240#:~:text=University%20of%20Washington%20(Foster)%202024,widely%20accepted%20indicators%20of%20excellence.
Foster School Undergraduate Program?
Undergraduate program Foster is considered first according to ranking in the Northwest and, simultaneously, by taking a proper business education that combines theoretical classes and realistic understanding. The students will have access to personal career coaching, have opportunities for internships, and can build possible connections with industry professionals. They will gain practical experience through an intense capstone case competition. They can either specialise in specific aspects, such as International Studies alongside sales or contribute through the Consulting and Business Development Program to advance students’ professional development and personal growth.
Applying to Foster
For all applicants, including:
- Current, Returning, or Former UW Seattle Students
- Transfer Students
- UW Bothell & UW Tacoma Students
For incoming freshman applicants, including:
- High School Students (incoming freshmen to UW Seattle)
- Running Start Students
Reference: https://foster.uw.edu/academics/degree-programs/undergraduate-programs/
What is the Foster Executive MBA tuition?
An individual with a comprehensive international background can earn a GEMBA in this one-year accelerated program. With fewer students embedded under a cohort than in a traditional M.B.A. program, students can now actively participate in domains of their choice in programmed courses with personalised contact with faculty and students worldwide. Moreover, students are invited to focused career services and networking events that allow access to some of Seattle’s most innovative businesses. An immersion-themed global travel experience and the option of a STEM-designated MBA Management Science Degree are included.
The one-year programme covers the cost of tuition, books, electronic course materials, career services, global experience immersion (room and board; does not include flight), parking, hosting social activities, student activity fees, and registration service.
Round | Deadline | Receive Notification | Enrollment Deadline |
1 | October 15, 2024 | December 1, 2024 | December 15, 2024 |
2 | January 15, 2025 | March 1, 2025 | 2 March 15, 2025 |
3 | April 1, 2025 | April 15, 2025 | May 1, 2025 |
**Round 2 is the final application option for international applicants.
Category | Round 1 | Round 2 | Round 3 |
Deposit amount and due date | $5,500 due December 15, 2024 | $5,500 due March 15, 2025 | $5,500 due May 1, 2025 |
Tuition installment due June 1, 2025 | $25,125 | $30,125 | $30,125 |
Tuition installment owing September 1, 2025 | $25,125 | $30,125 | $30,125 |
Tuition instalment due January 1, 2026 | $25,125 | $30,125 | $30,125 |
Tuition instalment owing April 1, 2026 | $25,125 | $30,125 | $30,125 |
Total tuition | $106,000 | $126,000 | $126,000 |
Reference: https://foster.uw.edu/academics/degree-programs/global-executive-mba/program-fees/
Why Choose Foster School?
The Foster MBA Program with the spirit of the Northwest. It is diverse: entrepreneurial thought, innovative problem-solvers, egalitarian team players, and motivated professionals who thrive in a flexible environment. Here, students don’t ask what you drive but what drives you. Foster MBA students were selected because of their potential contribution to the class and future employers. Foster MBAs combine potent work experiences, professionalism, creativity, and enthusiasm. Here, students build teams that transcend cultural viewpoints and gain a wider lens through an open exchange of ideas.
Our Support for Foster School of Business
If you have ambitions to join the Foster School of Business and its renowned Full-Time MBA program, TheMBAEdge stands ready to assist you with your application. We are well-versed in the distinctive qualities and principles of Foster and are dedicated to developing a tailored strategy for your application that effectively presents your fit with their hands-on educational model, their focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, and their dedication to ethical business conduct. Our individualized coaching will enable you to convey your narrative in a manner that will engage the admissions team at Foster. Our Expert MBA admission consultant will support you in every step of the application—from refining essays and interview preparation to the selection of recommenders and the fine-tuning of your resume. Our goal is not only to guide you but to convincingly show the admissions panel why you emerge as the ideal candidate for their program.
Client Testimonials
Scholarship – 70%
Scholarship – $80k
Scholarship – $30K
Scholarship – $90k
Scholarship – $80k
Scholarship – $50K
Scholarship – $130K
Scholarship – $40K
Recent Admits
