The Texas McCombs MBA program has long been at the forefront of developing exceptional business leaders. With the introduction of the Hildebrand Scholars program, we’re taking another bold step forward in supporting Full-Time MBA students through transformative scholarship opportunities that will cultivate the next generation of visionary business leaders. “Recipients will be a cohort of exceptional students destined to be future CEOs and founders,” Dr. Lillian Mills, Dean of the McCombs School of Business said. “We expect that, over McCombs’ second century, the Hildebrand Scholars will be a tight, intergenerational network that works both individually and collectively to change the world.”

At launch, Texas McCombs will welcome a core group of outstanding Full-Time MBA students admitted in Rounds 1 and 2 as Hildebrand Scholars, providing them with full tuition scholarships and an innovative leadership development experience that sets a new standard in business education. This prestigious program, available exclusively to candidates admitted through our first or second application rounds, represents our commitment to nurturing well-rounded business leaders who can thrive in complexity while making meaningful contributions to humanity and the world.

The Hildebrand Excellence Fund establishes a critical foundation for growing scholarship support, with matching donations intended to expand the number of scholars and develop innovative leadership opportunities.

What truly sets the Hildebrand Scholars program apart is its comprehensive approach to leadership development. Before their first semester, scholars participate in a sophisticated 360° assessment and craft a personalized two-year leadership roadmap. This individualized approach ensures that each scholar’s unique strengths and growth areas are identified and developed throughout their MBA journey.

The program’s benefits extend far beyond financial support. Hildebrand Scholars gain unlimited access to a network of over 40 executive coaches, helping them refine their leadership agility, interpersonal skills, and communication abilities. They receive priority registration for co-curricular workshops and exclusive invitations to special events, where they can engage with industry leaders and fellow scholars in meaningful dialogue about business challenges and opportunities.

How to Apply

Texas McCombs will welcome its inaugural class of Hildebrand Scholars in Fall 2025. Candidates who apply to the Full-Time MBA program in Round 1 or Round 2 will be invited to apply for the Hildebrand Scholars program through a supplemental essay and interview process. This additional evaluation helps identify individuals who will make the most of this transformative opportunity.

The selection process for Hildebrand Scholars reflects our commitment to identifying and nurturing exceptional MBA candidates who embody the core values of innovation, collaboration, global perspective, and positive impact. Through a rigorous and holistic evaluation, the admissions team seeks Full-Time MBA candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, proven leadership potential, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact in their communities and organizations.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

  • A track record of leadership and innovation in their professional or personal endeavors
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
  • A clear vision for how they plan to use their MBA education to drive positive change
  • The ability to collaborate effectively and inspire others

“This initiative allows us to attract exceptional individuals who might otherwise not have considered pursuing their MBA at Texas McCombs,” Rodrigo Malta, Assistant Dean of MBA Recruiting and Admissions said. “The caliber of candidates we expect to see are individuals who not only demonstrate outstanding academic and professional achievements but also possess the vision and drive to create lasting impact in their communities. The Hildebrand Scholars program reinforces our position as a top-ranked MBA destination and helps us build unique cohorts of future business leaders who will shape the next generation of global commerce.”

As we look to the future, the long-term vision for the Hildebrand Scholars program is clear: to build a network of influential business leaders who will shape the future of global commerce while upholding the highest standards of business ethics and social responsibility. Through this program, Texas McCombs builds on its tradition of excellence while cultivating the next generation of business leaders who will accelerate opportunities, tackle global challenges, and make a lasting impact on the world.

For more information about the Hildebrand Scholars program and application process, please visit our website or contact the MBA admissions office.