Pursuing an MBA at a top program represents a significant investment in your future. As you explore ways to advance your education and accelerate your career trajectory, we invite you to think holistically about your return on investment (ROI). Whether you’re seeking a promotion, salary increase, or aligning your personal and professional aspirations, defining your unique ROI is crucial as you consider an MBA for your future.

The numbers tell a compelling story: Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA graduates from the Class of 2024 saw an average starting salary of $150,000 plus a $30,000 signing bonus – representing a remarkable 67% increase from typical pre-MBA salaries. Over a 35-year career, this translates to an additional $1.56 million in value, with an impressive 21% annual return on investment.

Making Your MBA Attainable

To make your MBA future more accessible, Texas McCombs provides various financial assistance options. While student loans are the most common form of aid, several other funding sources can help support your education: the prestigious Hildebrand Scholars program, merit-based recruiting scholarships, continuing student scholarships, veteran benefits, federal and private loans, and specialized options for international students.

Hildebrand Scholars Program – Premier Leadership Development

The Hildebrand Scholars program represents our most prestigious scholarship opportunity, offering full tuition scholarships and comprehensive leadership development to exceptional Full-Time MBA candidates. This program is available exclusively to students admitted through Round 1 and Round 2 applications, emphasizing our commitment to early applicants who demonstrate outstanding leadership potential and academic achievement.

Beyond full tuition coverage, Hildebrand Scholars receive access to an innovative leadership development experience, including personalized coaching, priority registration for workshops, and exclusive networking events with industry leaders. The program is designed to cultivate the next generation of visionary business leaders who will make meaningful contributions to global commerce.

Candidates who apply to the Full-Time MBA program in Rounds 1 or 2 will be invited to apply for the Hildebrand Scholars program through a supplemental application process. Learn more about the Hildebrand Scholars program and application requirements.

Merit-Based Recruiting Scholarships

Through the generous support of individual donors, foundations, and corporate partners, Texas McCombs offers merit-based recruiting scholarships to both domestic and international candidates who demonstrate superior academic achievement and professional accomplishments. All applicants are automatically considered during the admissions review process.

This past admissions cycle, 88% of admitted Full-Time MBA students to the Class of 2027 received scholarship offers, with awards ranging from $5,000 to full tuition. While the Hildebrand Scholars program represents our premier full tuition opportunity, full tuition scholarships are also available through our merit-based recruiting scholarships. Among admitted students who received scholarships, the average award was $19,080 per year.

Current Student Scholarships

Full-Time MBA students have additional scholarship opportunities during their program:

  • McCombs Continuing Student Scholarships: At the end of the first year, students are invited to apply for continuing student scholarships for their second year. These awards typically range from $1,000-$5,000 and are based on academic performance, leadership, involvement during the first year, and financial need.

Veteran Benefits and Support

For military veterans and qualified family members, there are specialized funding options and support. Eligible veterans can utilize Veteran Affairs (VA) Education Benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill® and Hazlewood Exemption, which can cover eligible tuition based on service history.

  • Post-9/11 GI Bill®: Veterans using Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits may receive coverage for tuition, books, and a Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA).
  • Hazlewood Exemption: Students who qualify for Hazlewood Exemption, a state benefit, may also be used to exempt the student from paying tuition for state-funded courses. Proof of eligibility or ineligibility for tuition-paying Post-9/11 GI Bill®, benefits may be required to process Hazlewood Exemption benefits.

When using both Post-9/11 GI Bill®, and Hazlewood, you are required to use your tuition-paying GI Bill benefits first and any remaining tuition balance eligible for the Hazlewood Exemption will be applied toward the tuition bill.

Loan Options

  • Federal Loans: U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, and other eligible non-citizens qualify for federal loans, and students in the Full-Time MBA program may be eligible for state and/or institutional grants. To determine your eligibility, you must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The 2026-2027 FAFSA is already available  At the latest, it is recommended that you have your FAFSA completed by June 1. Please watch this two-minute video for help with the financial aid application process.
  • Private Education Loans: Private/alternative loans are an option available outside of the federal or state student loan program. As a result, the terms of the loan will vary from lender to lender. If pursuing a private loan, check with your lender about the length of time your application will remain valid to ensure your approval won’t expire before you start the program. Students who plan to take only private loans do not need to complete the FAFSA.
  • International Student Loan Options: For international students, there may be private loan options, with or without a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-signer. The student-run International MBA Student Association (IMBASA) is a good resource for information about pursuing an MBA as an international student. You are encouraged to reach out to IMBASA with any questions.

Note: We, as The University of Texas at Austin, cannot be your co-signer, nor can we recommend any specific lenders.

Beyond the Numbers

While the financial metrics are impressive, the true value of a Texas McCombs MBA extends beyond dollars and cents. Our graduates experience profound personal transformation, developing enhanced leadership skills, strategic thinking abilities, and a powerful professional network that spans industries and continents.

Most students finance their MBA education using multiple sources – combining personal savings, loans, and scholarship funding. Before applying, we encourage you to research financing options thoroughly and reach out to our MBA Admissions Team with any questions.

Ready to begin your MBA journey? Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events, or experience student life through our Instagram. For detailed information about application components and deadlines, check out our Application Process page.