Tag: mccombs (page 1 of 19)

Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Class of 2023 Sets New Records in Employment Outcomes

Students in the Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Class of 2023 accomplished remarkable success in their post-graduation employment outcomes. Among the 271 students who matriculated in the Full-Time MBA Class of 2023, an impressive 90% received job offers within three months after graduation and 89% accepted these positions, contributing to the attainment of the highest average base salary in school history – $157,735, making a significant 9% increase from the preceding year.

Click here for a detailed overview of the Texas McCombs Class of 2023 Salary Statistics.

This year’s key insights highlight the unique and exceptional achievements of our McCombs MBAs. They secured positions across a spectrum of 12 different industries, showcasing the comprehensive interests and adaptability of our students. The consulting function, in particular, saw a significant uptick, with 44% of our graduates entering full-time careers in this field.  

Moreover, 74% of acceptances were in consulting, financial services, and technology combined. Recognizing the exceptional talent in our McCombs 2023 graduates, 4 out of 5 Fortune 5 companies hired graduates for key positions within their organizations.   

Facilitating this success, the Texas McCombs Career Management and Corporate Relations (CMCR) team plays a pivotal role in preparing students for their job search. The team provides a strategic planning course, coaching appointments with school career consultants and industry experts, and career workshops, among other events and experiential learning opportunities. 80% of graduate offers were obtained through school-facilitated resources, underscoring the strength of McCombs’ career management initiatives.

Specifically, the Strategic Career Planning course equips students with skills needed to compete in various industries, combining theoretical frameworks with practical market insights gained from employer recruiting support. Delivered in year one of the MBA experience, this course aids students in building a strong career foundation. It progresses students through their Career Management Framework, helping MBAs evaluate their priorities, assess the job market, develop a personalized plan, and ultimately launch their overarching career strategy.  

90% Offers Received 3 months after graduation 89% Offers accepted 3 months after graduation

Reflecting the exceptional accomplishments of the Class of 2023, we proudly announce a historic milestone – the highest average salary in school history, reaching $157,735. Additionally, the average signing bonus stands at $32,915, marking a 6% uptick from 2022.  

$157,735 - Average Salary Reported by 177 Students, $32,915 - Average Signing Bonus reported by 140 Students

Examining job acceptances by industry reveals the wide-ranging success of our graduates. A substantial 43% of acceptances were in consulting, 16% in financial services, and 15% in technology. Noteworthy growth was observed in consumer-packaged goods (6%), energy (5%), retail (4%), and manufacturing (4%).  

Acceptances by Industry 43% Consulting, 16% Financial Services, 15% Technology, 6% Consumer-Packaged Goods, 5% Energy, 4% Retail, 4% Manufacturing

We are so thankful to the entire Texas McCombs community of faculty, staff, employers, and alumni who have played a valuable role in helping our MBAs achieve impressive outcomes. The Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA Class of 2023’s journey has been marked by outstanding achievements, industry diversification, and a continued commitment to excellence. As we reflect on these accomplishments, we look forward to witnessing the continued impact our graduates will make in various sectors.  


Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the MBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

Hook ‘Em!

Celebrating Our Military MBAs This Veterans Day

This post is written by Lauren Logan.

This Veterans Day we are celebrating and honoring all of our active and former military MBA students.

Here at Texas McCombs, we understand that navigating the transition between military life and graduate education can be difficult – and we are here to help! All veterans and active military applicants qualify for an application fee waiver to any of our five MBA programs. Applicants also have the option of petitioning for a test waiver to waive the test score requirement.

Military applicants are also encouraged to take advantage of opportunities to connect with other veterans on campus and through virtual chats with members of the Texas Veterans in Business (TViB) student organization. TViB serves as the primary student organization for veterans pursuing an MBA. The organization offers plenty of opportunities to get to know other military students and to form a community with students who share a similar background. In addition, the Student Veterans Association regularly assists students with their relocation to Austin and offers programs to support military students’ success on campus.

Working Professional MBA Spotlights

Patrick Guide II
MBA at Houston ’25

Photo of Patrick in uniform.

Patrick served 6 years as a Marine Corps Engineer Officer and is a first-year student in our Weekend MBA at Houston program. Patrick attributes the success he has had in the program to the leadership and adaptability skills he learned throughout his time in the military and believes that his time at McCombs will further reinforce these skills and will prepare him well for an executive career post-MBA.

“I take pride in being a servant leader who is passionate about solving problems and serving people. I chose the McCombs MBA program because I believe this experience will position me for roles of greater impact. My desire is to play a role in creating a better tomorrow and McCombs is a crucial part of that pursuit.”

“The MBA program is a challenging adjustment, especially being years removed from school, but learning to adapt is a key skill I believe most veterans possess. Naturally, the discipline gained through military experience is also very beneficial. I came in understanding that networking is very important but I’ve never been exposed to as many opportunities and connections as with the McCombs program. There are many opportunities to mentor and to be mentored as well. Being comfortable working with very diverse groups of people is critical to being successful in the MBA environment.”

“Because my final years of service were in the reserves, I have experienced balancing multiple obligations at once. As a working professional in the MBA at Houston program, that skill set is definitely beneficial and being developed even further. Relearning how to be a student has been a tough but rewarding process. My experience in the program has already given me a more holistic perspective of business and society as a whole. I’ve learned leadership lessons that I know will be very applicable to solving future problems and I’ve been able to leverage my experience to contribute to thoughtful conversations considering a diverse range of perspectives.”

Patrick plans to pursue an executive career post-MBA, continuing on his path as a servant leader while combining skills from both his time in the military and his engineering background.

Eric Kasper
MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Eric Kasper is a 4th generation service member who served as a 1st Lieutenant Infantry Officer in the Army. His great-grandfather served in the Army and his grandfather and both parents served in the Air Force.  Eric was stationed in Fort Benning for three years before serving on the General Staff supporting operations during the pandemic. He also served on the Commanding General of Fort Benning Staff. Eric says his shared military and MBA experience has enhanced his understanding of being an empathetic but impactful leader.

“I was medically retired from the Army after multiple surgeries for a knee injury. After three years of physical therapy, the medical staff made the decision to medically retire me from service. It was very challenging to know what career path to take after the decision to leave the military takes place. Thankfully I made strong connections with support staff in the VA benefits department, which allowed me to pursue a Master of Science in Economics. That master’s program propelled me to my first job at Texas Instruments which then led me to pursue an MBA.”

“I chose the Working Professional MBA at Dallas program because it provided me the ability to keep working while gaining further business acumen. As a military officer, you need to be able to lead from the front and display both the ability to learn and adapt as well as make decisions and move forward. In business school, especially in group case studies, the problem statement solutions are not readily known or easily identifiable. It takes the ability to learn from others and make decisive steps toward a shared goal to uncover the best solutions.”

“Being in the military is a humbling experience where leadership is rooted in practical experience and the reliance on your team or squad to provide their expertise and background. My MBA experience has enhanced my understanding of being an empathetic but impactful leader. McCombs has provided me the ability to understand macro-level business strategy through an analytical lens. The leadership experience I gained in the military allowed me to perform well under tight timelines and high-pressure situations. My military background proved to me that the right person in the right position can dramatically influence positive change for enterprise-level organizations.”

“My advice to anyone looking to apply is to talk with your VA representative as you go through out processing to verify your GI Bill and other benefits – have them physically print out documents to verify your eligibility.”

Brett Sheneman
MBA at Houston ’24

pic of Brett holding his child on his left and holding his wife's hand on the right.

Brett Shenamen was a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps who served as a Judge Advocate and Lead Prosecutor while stationed in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Before joining the military, he received his law degree from Michigan State University and is currently a Litigation Lawyer at ExxonMobil. His time in the military taught him how to work well with diverse groups of people and gave him the opportunity to positively impact his community.

“McCombs has both reinforced and changed my outlook on leadership. The curriculum is built around a business leader’s understanding of key fundamental components, including finance, statistics, marketing, and various management courses. In that sense, it changed my viewpoint. I always knew leaders needed to be competent; but a better, more well-rounded viewpoint and skillset is always valuable, especially when you surround yourself with truly qualified people.  An MBA, especially at McCombs, is such a well-rounded program that will instill an analytical skill set sure to distinguish you from your peers.”

“I chose McCombs because it is a leaders’ program with outstanding faculty and an excellent reputation. Primarily, I wanted to augment my legal skills with a robust business management understanding. The biggest takeaway is the pure quality of human beings at McCombs. The professors, staff, and students are just top-notch. That likemindedness inevitably leads to high-functioning collegiality.”

“I was lucky enough to begin my ‘dream job’ as an in-house lawyer at Exxon Mobil Corporation and plan to remain there after graduation, hopefully until retirement. My military background played a key role in eventually serving an organization with multiple stakeholders and a storied dedication to local communities throughout the nation.”

Brett believes that his time at McCombs has reinforced important lessons he learned while serving in the military–most especially, “strength through diversity of people and thought.”

Ross Desoto
MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Ross posing in front of a plane Ross Desoto began his military experience serving in the Marine Corps. During his time, he has served as the Battalion Supply Officer for 2 WESTPAC deployments to Okinawa, Japan where he participated in numerous multinational exercises in various countries around INDOPACOM. He also led 275 Marines in Sailors in day-to-day supply and maintenance operations supporting all Marines on the west coast. During his time there, he had the pleasure of deploying with 100+ Marines aboard the USNS Lewis & Clark where they supported operations in the Middle East.

“As I planned to exit the Marine Corps, I knew that I wanted to move back to Dallas to be closer to family. Going to grad school was always a goal of mine and I began exploring MBA programs in Dallas. After doing my research and attending a few different school’s class visits I knew McCombs was the right fit for me. The Working Professional MBA at Dallas program fits my work schedule, and the caliber of fellow students and professors far exceeded every other program in Dallas. I knew it was the best program for me.”

“The culture in the Marine Corps and the culture at McCombs are vastly different and yet still the same. Within McCombs and the Marine Corps, there is a strong sense of personal accountability and a culture where ‘you are your brother’s keeper.’ I’ve found that I can rely on my study group and friends here at McCombs just like I relied on my Marines. We take care of one another and ensure we are all successful.”

“The most important lesson that I’ve learned while at McCombs is that just because you are a veteran and have done really hard things, you don’t have a market share on hard work. Regardless of background, everyone at McCombs has an impressive resume and has worked really hard to get where they are. It was humbling for me to look around during our first Austin Intensive and see the caliber of person that I was now classmates with and be so impressed with every student. From that point forward I was able to learn from everyone’s different experiences and value what everyone brings to the table.”

“Post-MBA I’m hoping to stay in finance and eventually pivot into private equity, with the hopes of eventually being a partner at a private equity firm. The military taught me to take information, analyze it, and make decisions effectively. Those skills translate directly to running a business and coupling those skills with what I learned at McCombs will hopefully lead to success.”

“The best advice I would give is to believe in yourself and go for it. A lot of veterans are hesitant about if they are capable of getting an MBA or are scared of the GMAT. It is hard to go back to grad school but it is not that hard and you have done harder things in the military. Study hard for the GMAT and tie your experience into your application because once you get your MBA you will continue to lead and make a difference anywhere you land.”

Jeffrey Caslen
MBA at Houston ’25

Jeffrey standing with Hook 'Em, our mascot. Jeffrey Caslen was commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer in 2009 after graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point. After his Officer Basic Course, he met his Platoon mid-deployment in Baghdad, Iraq. After returning from Iraq, He moved to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he changed his Branch to Public Affairs (PAO). As a PAO, he served in many roles, including Brigade Public Affairs Officer, Command Team Speechwriter, and Observer Coach/Trainer at the National Training Center, in Fort Irwin, California. Jeffrey transitioned out of Active Duty in 2020 and is currently a Major in the Individual Ready Reserve.

“The military prides itself on its diversity and having an organization that reflects the American population. While in the Army, I learned how to lead teams of motivated people with diverse backgrounds and skill sets to achieve a common goal. In the Business world, many leadership challenges seem to have a ‘no-win’ scenario. There are many variables involved that I did not need to worry about as a military leader. By maintaining my ethical leadership style I developed in the Army, I know I can hold my head high regardless of my decisions when I become a business leader.”

“I have noticed a few similarities between the Army and the McCombs culture. One is that we bond through hardship, and become extremely close, building a lifetime bond. Additionally, the focus on team vs individuality is similar between the Army and McCombs. Although this is my MBA, It is unachievable without relying on my peers’ strengths to help me through the program. Texas McCombs is amazingly diverse, and leaning on my classmates’ incredible skill sets for projects and collaboration is a skill I learned as an Army Officer.”

“Everyone has a unique and valuable experience. Although my experience in the Army is valuable to me, all of my classmates have impactful experiences that allow me to grow through their storytelling and mentorship. Seeing how great and accomplished my classmates are really humbles and motivates me to become the best version of myself so I can live up to their expectations.”

For those looking to apply to McCombs, Jeffrey offers some advice. “Take your time and find a program that best fits your end goals and your family. Each university has a helpful Veteran’s Department to help you with your VA applications and help quell any concerns. UT’s Veteran’s Department answered all my questions and helped me feel confident that I would be taken care of during my time as an MBA student.”


Applicants have a range of resources to utilize as they are applying to Texas McCombs. Follow Texas Veterans in Business on Instagram to connect with current students.

If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. 

Good luck and Hook ’em! 

Ready to Elevate Your Career? MBA Application Now Open

Full-Time, Working Professional & Executive MBA Candidates

Calling all aspiring business changemakers! McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin is thrilled to announce the MBA application for Full-Time, Evening, and Executive programs in Austin, as well as the Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and Weekend MBA at Houston, is now open for Fall 2024 entry. With a tradition of excellence in business education and a commitment to fostering innovative leaders, Texas McCombs provides a transformative learning experience that prepares students for success in the ever-evolving global landscape.  

Application Components 

As part of the Texas McCombs MBA admissions process, all applicants are required to complete all application components. The Admissions Committee aims to holistically assess candidates’ academic, professional, and personal achievements. Our objective is to determine if you are a good fit for Texas McCombs and ensure we are the right school for you and your goals. There are no fixed criteria or weighted portions of the application.  

Unless otherwise noted in the respective MBA program sections below, the following application components are required this cycle:  

Test Scores: Standardized test scores are a part of the application. All programs accept test scores from GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, and Executive Assessment, unless applicants qualify for a waiver.  More on the test waiver petition later.

English Proficiency Test: International students must submit an English proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS) unless they qualify for a waiver.

Academic Transcripts: Applicants must upload official undergraduate and graduate transcripts (if applicable) from all colleges and universities attended. These transcripts provide insights into the applicant’s academic background and achievements.

Resume: Applicants are asked to provide a detailed resume or CV highlighting their work experience, educational background, and extracurricular activities.

One Professional Recommendation: A letter of recommendation is required, preferably from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s professional capabilities and potential for success in the MBA program.

Video Assessment: Applicants will participate in a video assessment, providing a unique opportunity for them to showcase their communication skills, personality, and passion for business. 

Application Cover Letter: The application cover letter is a critical means of learning who you are as an applicant and assessing your communication and writing skills.

Additional Full-Time MBA Application Components 

Optional Peer Interview: All MBA applicants may close out their application process and complete a short, optional virtual interview, allowing them to connect with Full-Time MBA students. 

Additional Working Professional & Executive MBA Application Components 

MBA Admissions Interview: Every Working Professional & Executive MBA candidate will complete an interview with a member of the admissions committee. The interview format is behavioral-based.  

Application Deadlines  

Texas McCombs offers multiple application deadline rounds to accommodate applicants’ varying schedules and to ensure they have ample time to submit their best applications. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round. All MBA programs enroll annually every August. 

For the Full-Time MBA program, the deadlines for the upcoming year are as follows: 

Round 1: October 10, 2023
Round 2: January 5, 2024
Round 3: March 26, 2024*
Round 4: May 9, 2024

*Final deadline for international applicants

 

Applications for the Working Professional MBA program, including the Evening MBA in Austin and Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and Weekend MBA at Houston, are accepted in four rounds.

Round 1: October 10, 2023
Round 2: January 23, 2024
Round 3: March 26, 2024
Round 4: May 28, 2024

 

Applications for the Executive MBA are accepted in three rounds. 

Round 1: October 10, 2023
Round 2: February 13, 2024
Round 3: May 28, 2024

Test Requirements and Waivers  

To provide MBA candidates with additional flexibility, applicants have more options than ever before when considering how to complete the standardized test requirement in their application. All applicants are required to submit a GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) score. We will waive the testing requirement if: 

  • Expired (taken 5+ years ago) GMAT, GRE, or EA score is submitted 
  • General Test Waiver (merit-based) is approved 

Standardized exams like the GRE, GMAT, GMAT Focus, and EA help us to evaluate a candidate’s academic preparedness for the rigor of business school and is also one metric used to compare candidates within a large pool of applicants. However, there are some scenarios where a candidate’s application might shine without the standardized test. Learn more about the criteria required to apply for a general test waiver. 

Once the GMAT Focus is launched in late fall, Texas McCombs will accept both the current GMAT test type and the new GMAT Focus test type.  


Full-Time MBA 

The Full-Time MBA program at Texas McCombs is designed for individuals seeking an immersive and transformative business education experience. With a rigorous curriculum, a unique and talented cohort, and unparalleled networking opportunities, the Full-Time MBA program prepares graduates to excel in their careers and make a significant impact in the business world.  

Looking for more detail on the Full-Time MBA Application Components? Click here to access a curated list of blogs on this topic.  

Working Professional MBA 

The Working Professional MBA program is tailored for ambitious professionals who wish to pursue an MBA while continuing to work. Offered in the evenings in Austin or on alternating weekends in Dallas/Fort Worth or Houston, this program allows students to balance their professional and academic commitments effectively. With a focus on flexibility and practical learning, the Working Professional MBA program empowers students to enhance their leadership skills and advance their careers without interrupting their work schedules. 

Looking for more detail on the Working Professional & Executive MBA Application Components? Click here to access a curated list of blogs on this topic.

Executive MBA 

The Executive MBA program is designed for seasoned professionals with extensive leadership experience. Through a blend of dynamic classroom sessions and experiential learning opportunities, the program equips executives with the knowledge and insights necessary to address complex business challenges confidently. The Executive MBA program also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among participants, creating a valuable network of high-impact business leaders. 

Looking for more detail on the Working Professional & Executive MBA Application Components? Click here to access a curated list of blogs on this topic.  

Our Commitment to You 

Our goal is for these application components to exemplify our commitment to a human-centered, future-focused approach. We deeply value each candidate’s individual journey and recognize the potential they bring to our program.  

Ready to join the ranks of successful Texas McCombs MBA alumni and take the next step in your career? Join us as we shape a class of talented individuals with different perspectives, pioneering a path toward a brighter and more impactful future in business education. The application is now open, and we look forward to reviewing your submission. 


If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. 

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Who Should Write Your MBA Recommendation?

The Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA application requires one professional letter of recommendation from a person who has supervised your work and/or has assessed your performance during your career.

A recommendation letter is one of the only things you rely on someone else to provide in your application. Circumstances differ for every applicant and deciding who you should ask will vary.  Below are some scenarios to help guide you in choosing the best recommender for your application.

Your Supervisor

Your current direct supervisor is traditionally the best choice. This is likely the person in your network that knows your strengths and weaknesses better than anyone else. However, this may not be a viable option for you.  Perhaps you aren’t able to communicate to your employer that you’re applying to business school or you do not work with your direct boss that closely. It could also be that you attained a new role recently and your current supervisor has not had a chance to work with you very much. Or,  you’re an entrepreneur & don’t have a supervisor.

All of these are valid reasons to look for other recommendation sources, but remember that if you do not ask your current supervisor to write your recommendation letter, we do ask that you explain your choice in the Optional Statement.

Your Former Supervisor

If you cannot ask your current direct supervisor to write your recommendation, maybe you can ask a previous supervisor? Depending on how recently you worked with them, the “old boss” may be the best choice, especially if you had a strong professional relationship with that person. This is also a very common option.

Your Indirect Supervisor

Asking an indirect supervisor can be another option, especially if you’ve worked with this person closely on past assignments or long-term projects.  This is a nice alternative to a supervisor that you may not work with closely.

Your Client or Vendor

This type of recommendation source is especially useful for entrepreneurs or for applicants who work for a family business.

If you work for a family business, it is preferred that you ask an individual outside of your family to write your letter of recommendation.

Your Mentor

Mentors inside or outside of your workplace are great to have in your corner when it comes time to apply to business school. However, be sure that your mentor has a clear understanding of your current professional value, not just your potential or future goals. Select a mentor with whom you have worked with on measurable tasks to ensure that they will provide a recommendation with depth.  Keep in mind that the admissions committee is looking for someone who has worked with you professionally.

Other Options

There are many individuals who may fall in the category of “other recommenders.” For example, a former professor, a colleague, or a coach.

When it comes to these options: use your best judgment. An undergraduate professor may not be the best person to address some of the questions posed on the recommendation form and we’re looking mainly at your post-undergraduate work experience.  Direct reports should never submit a letter of recommendation on behalf of their boss, so steer clear of that scenario. And don’t focus only on title– the CEO of a large company may sound like an impressive recommendation, but unless they work with you closely, the recommendation letter will likely fall short of delivering on the information that the admissions committee is looking for.

You’ve chosen a recommender. What’s next?

First, before asking your recommender to take this on, keep in mind that they are likely a busy individual – be sure to give them plenty of notice prior to an approaching application deadline.

Secondly, give them a heads-up about your request. You don’t want to blindly email someone and ask them to write something for you without having a conversation. Sometimes it’s good to revisit certain projects you worked on with them. Most importantly, explain to your recommender why you’re pursuing an MBA. Giving them some context behind your ask will go a long way and will likely result in a stronger letter.

Finally, make sure you give them all the info on the recommendation before you ask.  Texas McCombs uses the GMAC Common Letter of Recommendation.  Your recommender will be asked to assess specific competencies and traits, as well as answer three explicit questions.  While there will be other programs using this form,  some schools will ask a series of different questions.  If you’re applying to more than one MBA, you may be asking your recommender to fill out and separately submit different forms.


If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA. 

Good luck and Hook ’em!

What’s New in the 2023-24
Texas McCombs Full-Time
MBA Application

Texas McCombs is delighted to unveil the 2023-24 Full-Time MBA application deadline and components, featuring significant updates that reflect our dedication to reducing bias, fostering inclusivity, and improving accessibility in the admissions process. We are excited to offer an extended application submission window, including our Round 4 deadline, providing applicants with more time to carefully prepare and submit their materials. Additionally, in recognition of the unique profiles of our applicants, we are expanding our standardized test options to include the GMAT Focus, GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment, and ongoing merit-based test waiver.

As part of our commitment to enabling applicants to showcase their unique voices, we are bringing back the video assessment component and introducing an optional peer interview, providing enhanced avenues for self-expression as well as authentic conversation. These updates aim to create an inclusive and welcoming admissions experience, ensuring prospective students have an equal opportunity to shine and contribute to our vibrant community at Texas McCombs.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS FOR THE 2023-2024 ADMISSIONS CYCLE

Our Admissions Committee dedicates itself to a meticulous, holistic review of each application. Our objective is to determine if you are a good fit for Texas McCombs and to be sure we are the right school for you and your goals. There are no fixed criteria or weighted portions of the application. Unless otherwise noted, the following application components will be required this cycle:

  • Standardized Test (GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, Executive Assessment) or merit-based waiver
  • English Proficiency Test (TOEFL, IELTS) or waiver (international students only)
  • Undergraduate transcripts and graduate transcripts (if applicable)
  • Resume
  • One Professional Recommendation
  • One Written Application Cover Letter
  • Video Assessment
  • Optional: Peer Interview

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Applications for the Full-Time MBA program are accepted in four rounds, and the program enrolls annually every August. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round.

  • Round 1: October 10, 2023
  • Round 2: January 5, 2024
  • Round 3: March 26, 2024*
  • Round 4: May 9, 2024

*Final deadline for international applicants.

STANDARDIZED TESTING REQUIREMENTS

To provide MBA candidates with additional flexibility, applicants have more options than ever before when considering how to complete the standardized test requirement in their application. All applicants are required to submit a GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) score. We will waive the testing requirement if:

  • Expired (taken 5+ years ago) GMAT, GRE, or EA score is submitted
  • General Test Waiver (merit-based) is approved

Standardized exams like the GRE, GMAT, GMAT Focus, and EA help us to evaluate a candidate’s academic preparedness for the rigor of business school and is also one metric used to compare candidates within a large pool of applicants. However, there are some scenarios where a candidate’s application might shine without the standardized test. Learn more about the criteria required to apply for a general test waiver.

Once the GMAT Focus is launched in late fall, Texas McCombs will accept both the current GMAT test type and the new GMAT Focus test type.

Note that the majority of applicants applying to the Full-Time MBA program take either the GMAT or the GRE due to the competitiveness of the pool. In many cases, having a strong GMAT or GRE score will make you more competitive for both admission and scholarship opportunities.

APPLICATION COVER LETTER

The application cover letter is a critical means of learning who you are as an applicant and assessing your communication and writing skills. Here is the prompt to help guide you in writing the application cover letter:

Please write an application cover letter summarizing your aspirations, qualifications, and personal and professional experiences that make you a strong candidate for the Texas Full-Time MBA program.

LIMIT: 500 words 

Additionally, and if applicable, applicants can provide an optional statement in the essay section of the application. Applicants should only provide an optional statement if there is something they wish to address about their candidacy that is not addressed elsewhere.

VIDEO ASSESSMENT

Texas McCombs has always been at the forefront of innovation and continuous improvement, consistently seeking new ways to enhance the application process for prospective MBA candidates. In line with our school mission and values, we introduced a dynamic video assessment component as part of the 2022-23 admission cycle, offering an alternative approach to a more traditional essay and interview format. Given all applicants will complete the video assessment, MBA candidates will have increased access to the application process and the opportunity to share their stories with us in their own voice.  Through the video assessment, the Admissions Committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond a resume, test scores, and transcripts. Lastly, the video assessment will enable Texas McCombs to reduce bias in the admissions process by providing all applicants with a structured and consistent assessment experience.

MBA candidates with a submitted application, whose application fee has been paid or waived will be invited to take part in our Texas McCombs Video Assessment. Each applicant will have 7 days from the invitation to complete the assessment. The video assessment is asynchronous and will help the admissions committee evaluate your career goals and the following competencies that are crucial for the fit and success of our students within the program and their future careers:

Adaptability/Resilience

Empathy/Inclusivity

Ambition

Goals

Well-Roundedness

Verbal Communication

Professionalism/Poise 

Each video assessment will start with a fun, non-evaluative question that will help the admissions team learn who you are as a person, then applicants will be asked 4 additional questions, for a total of 5 responses, with each response lasting no more than 90 seconds each. Detailed instructions will be provided with the video assessment invitation so you know what to expect, and applicants will have the opportunity to practice as many times as they wish before completing the final video assessment.

This is your time to show us your personality and enthusiasm! We recommend that you prepare for the video assessment similarly to how you might prepare for an interview.  Think reflectively about your work experience, strengths, weaknesses, and work on your delivery.

OPTIONAL: PEER INTERVIEW

One of the most vital parts of the MBA application process at Texas McCombs is the human component – “Human-Centered, Future-Focused” is our mantra for a reason. We pride ourselves in getting to know you at a personal level during the admissions process and will continue to provide hundreds of virtual and in-person ways for you to meet our students, alumni, faculty, and admissions team.

We invite all MBA applicants to close out their application process in a human-centered way and complete a short, optional virtual interview. While not required, registering for and completing an interview is highly encouraged.  

These interactive virtual sessions present a valuable opportunity for our applicants to connect with Full-Time MBA students, showcasing their collaborative skills, reaffirming their motivation for pursuing an MBA and leaving a lasting positive impression on Texas McCombs.

The optional interview will last 20-30 minutes and are available throughout the round.  The student ambassador will introduce themselves and ask you up to 3 questions that focus on collaboration and your motivation.  The rest of the time is yours to ask 2-3 questions that are top of mind.

OUR COMMITMENT

These enhancements to our application components exemplify our commitment to a human-centered, future-focused approach. We deeply value each candidate’s individual journey and recognize the potential they bring to our program. Join us at Texas McCombs as we shape a class of talented individuals with various perspectives, pioneering a path toward a brighter and more impactful future in business education.

Learn more about the MBA Application Components.


Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events, or take a peek into student life on Instagram. Check out our Application Process page for more information on application components. Please reach out to the MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

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