Interested in the UNC Kenan-Flagler Full-Time MBA Program? Great! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions as well as links to other sources of information.
Q: Is UNC Kenan-Flagler a general management program? Are concentrations offered?
A: Yes, our Full-Time MBA is a general management program that provides you with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts and theory, and ensures you master numerous business disciplines. During the program, you’ll complete 62 credit hours across core courses, electives, independent study projects, and concentration courses.
We offer twelve optional concentrations and focus areas, which approximately 80% of our students pursue. You do not need to declare a concentration. If you choose to concentrate, you’ll take elective courses specific to your concentration starting in the second half of your first year in the program.
Q: What concentrations are available in the Full-Time MBA program? Can I choose more than one?
A: UNC Kenan-Flagler offers twelve concentrations and one focus area. You can learn more about each of them here. Full-Time MBA students can select up to two concentrations.
Q: Can I transfer to UNC Kenan-Flagler from another MBA program?
A: We’ll certainly evaluate any prior coursework during our holistic admissions process and many students have enrolled in our program after starting elsewhere. Unfortunately, however, we cannot accept transfer credits into the Full-Time MBA Program.
Q. Is your full-time MBA program STEM designated?
A. Yes! All UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA programs are STEM-designated, reflecting the analytical rigor of our curriculum.
Q: Is it possible to pursue a dual-degree program along with the MBA?
A: Yes, we have dual-degree programs arranged with six graduate schools at UNC, as well as with two programs at Duke University. We can generally accommodate dual degrees with most other graduate programs requiring two or more years of study and encourage you to reach out to us at mba_info@kenan-flagler.unc.edu if you’d like to discuss a unique dual-degree option.
Q: How many core classes are required in the Full-Time MBA program? Is there an example schedule available?
A: There are 15 required core courses that make up the foundation of your MBA education and ensure you develop solid literacy with key business concepts. You’ll work across several disciplines, including finance, accounting, economics, data analytics, business strategy, operations, marketing, and you’ll learn important soft skills in leadership, communications, and ethics. To view the first-year schedule, please visit our academic curriculum webpage.
Q: I’m interested in getting an MBA, but I don’t know whether I’m competitive for UNC Kenan-Flagler’s Full-Time MBA Program. Can I get feedback on my resume or have an evaluation of my chances of admission?
A: Our students come from many different backgrounds and bring a wide range of experiences, interests, and career aspirations. Our holistic admissions process reviews each applicant’s strengths individually and also considers the overall pool of applicants. Because of these variances, it’s not possible for us to speak to admission chances or provide individual resume reviews. This said, we do offer numerous information sessions on campus, online, and in locations around the globe where you can ask questions of our admissions staff and learn more about the application process.
Q: I’ve applied in the past and I plan to reapply this year. Do I have to start a new online application with new essays and new recommendations?
A: Yes, you will need to start a new application, with new essay responses, recommenders, and an updated resume. However, your transcripts will rollover to the new application, as will your test scores, if they are still valid. Please use the same login information you used in the previous application year.
Q: If I am admitted this year, may I defer my enrollment until next year?
A: Generally, we will not defer your enrollment.
Q: How does the waitlist process work?
A: If you receive a waitlist decision, you are high-potential candidate who we’d like to consider further. In a subsequent admissions round, we’ll review your application again, comparing you to others who have applied. At that point, you may receive an offer of admission. Because we review the previously waitlisted applicants in each round, it is possible – and not uncommon – for you to receive more than one waitlist decision.
Q: Can I transfer to UNC Kenan-Flagler from another MBA program?
A: We’ll certainly evaluate any prior coursework during our holistic admissions process and many students have enrolled in our program after starting elsewhere. Unfortunately, however, we cannot accept transfer credits into the Full-Time MBA Program.
Q: Does the Full-Time MBA program at UNC Kenan-Flagler offer spring admission?
A: No, we only offer one program start each year in the fall.
Q: Does this program require prerequisite courses?
A: No, the Full-Time MBA program does not require applicants to take prerequisite courses, but admitted students are expected to have foundational knowledge of key business and finance concepts. We offer Business Foundations in the summer before orientation to help sharpen these critical skills and prepare you for your MBA studies.
Q: Can I apply if I don’t have a background or undergraduate degree in business?
A: Yes, approximately 54% of our students come from a non-business background.
Q: Does this program require work experience?
A: We prefer applicants to have at least two years of full-time professional work experience. However, we do admit a small number of applicants with less experience; these candidates have demonstrated strong leadership at their undergraduate institution.
Q: Do I need to be currently employed to apply?
A: You don’t have to be currently employed to apply to UNC Kenan-Flagler. We seek candidates with a variety of experiences, backgrounds and career goals. The most important thing is to show us how you’ll contribute meaningfully to our collaborative and talented community – and help us understand your career vision.
Q: My spouse/partner and I both are applying to your Full-Time MBA Program. Will you evaluate us as a package deal?
A: We evaluate all applicants based on their individual credentials, so, no, we’ll review each of you separately. Do let us know, however, that you and your spouse/partner share a mutual interest in UNC Kenan-Flagler so that we can provide insights from partners who have completed the program together.
Q: What is the application fee?
A: The nonrefundable application fee is $150 (USD) for all application rounds and can be paid by credit card.
Q: Do you offer application fee waivers?
A: Yes. You may qualify for an application fee waiver if you are currently serving in the U.S. military or are a military veteran, or an active participant in the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, or Teach for America. Indicating your military experience or your participation in one of the qualifying programs within your application will activate the fee waiver, which will be applied after you submit your application. You may also qualify for an application fee waiver if you are a Forté MBA Launcher, Access member or Access Fellow, or attend a qualifying admissions event. In some cases, supporting documentation may be requested. Unfortunately, refunds cannot be issued for application fees already paid.
Q: What is the enrollment deposit amount?
A: Once you are admitted and decide to attend UNC Kenan-Flagler, there is a non-refundable enrollment deposit of $1,500 USD, regardless of which round you apply in. We encourage you to apply as early as possible to maximize your chances for admission and to receive a fellowship.
Q: Can I receive a refund of my application fee?
A: The application fee is non-refundable.
Q: I had a change in plans and would like to decline my enrollment. Will I be able to request a refund for my enrollment deposit?
A: No. Regardless of the decision to decline enrollment, the enrollment deposit is non-refundable.
Q: Do students secure internships successfully between their first and second years?
A: Yes, all of our students are required to participate in meaningful applied work experiences and internships over the summer between their first and second year in the program. Students work with our career coaches in their first year in the program to conduct on- and off-campus internship searches.
Q: Will any career management experts be available to help me with my job search?
A: UNC Kenan-Flagler has full-time career coaches with responsibility for specific functional areas of career focus. We provide important career and leadership programming, coaching, and networking events. In addition, around 70 second-year students serve as Career & Leadership Mentors who conduct mock interviews, critique resumes, and offer one-on-one support for each first-year student.
Q: How many recruiters visit UNC Kenan-Flagler?
A: More than 100 recruiting companies visit campus each year.
Q: Where can I find a list of MBA Employers that recruit at UNC Kenan-Flagler?
A. Each year, over 100 companies visit UNC Kenan-Flagler to recruit MBA students for summer internship and full-time employment opportunities. Hundreds more utilize Career Connections, our online recruiting system, to directly connect with UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA students via job postings and resumes books. Please visit our Career & Leadership website to see a complete employer list.
Q: What type of resources are available through the Career & Leadership Center?
A. With expert coaching and career advice, we’ll help you chart a path for your career. With specialized workshops designed to help you understand yourself and your career goals, we’ll help you build critical skills you’ll use to understand the market and market yourself to potential employers. And, with campus interviews, treks, and networking forums, we’ll help you meet recruiters from the numerous companies and organizations ready to hire UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA students Please visit our Career & Leadership website to review more information.
Q: How do I apply for fellowships?
A: Candidates who submit an MBA application will be considered automatically for merit-based fellowships, you don’t need to apply separately. If selected for a fellowship award, you’ll be notified at the time of admission. Approximately 60% of our students receive some fellowship assistance.
Fellowships are awarded for the duration of the 2-year program (as long as fellowship criteria is met), and no new fellowship awards are given to students in the second year of the program.
Q: What is the selection criteria to receive a fellowship?
A: Selection criteria for a merit-based fellowship include exceptional academic performance, progressive work experience, leadership and potential for success in business careers. Past recipients have demonstrated superior performance in all of these areas.
Q: Do you offer need-based fellowships?
A: No, UNC Kenan-Flagler does not offer need-based fellowships. The admissions committee selects candidates for merit-based fellowships only. Our Financial Aid staff is available to discuss financing options as you consider pursuing your MBA.
Q: May I apply for a graduate assistantship or research assistantship?
A: We do not offer graduate or research assistantships to MBA students.
Q: Are Consortium applicants considered for all fellowships offered?
A: Yes, candidates applying via the Consortium will automatically be considered for all of the merit based fellowships we offer at UNC Kenan-Flagler, including the Consortium Fellowship. The Consortium does not select or award fellowships. All fellowship funds come from UNC Kenan-Flagler.
Q. Do you offer financial aid for Full-Time MBA candidates?
A: Student loan options are available through the University for U.S. citizens and permanent residents and international students. More information is available on our Financial Aid website.
Q. Am I eligible to use military benefits?
A: UNC-Chapel Hill, including UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, is approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a training facility for students receiving military education benefits. We are proud participants in the Yellow Ribbon Program for students who don’t qualify for in-state tuition. We support Post 9/11 GI Bill®. And, we comply with the Veterans Choice Act.
To confirm your eligibility for Yellow Ribbon benefits, apply for financial support through the VA to secure a Certificate of Eligibility. Once you’re admitted to UNC Kenan-Flagler, you’ll submit your Certificate of Eligibility and Yellow Ribbon Application to our MBA Veterans Affairs Specialist.
If you have questions about military benefits, the application process, and additional resources for active-duty military and veterans, our MBA Veterans Affairs Specialist, Karsen Spain, can help. You can reach Karsen at kfveteransaffairs@kenan-flagler.unc.edu.
Q. What options do I have for financial aid as a U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Resident?
A: Students have access to non-need-based loan funding (loans that start accruing interest at disbursement) to cover expenses associated with their degree. Your total financial aid (scholarships, fellowships and all education loans) can’t exceed the financial aid budget for the academic year, which includes tuition, fees and living expenses. For more information, visit our Financial Aid website on student loans.
Q. What options do I have for financial aid as an International Student?
A: There are a variety of options that are available to international students. We encourage you to visit the financial aid website for more details of possible programs to research.
Q: What does the admissions committee take into consideration for the GMAT/GRE waiver?
A: Our holistic application process is built to ensure that you’re prepared for our rigorous Full-Time MBA program. While scores from standardized tests such as the GMAT or GRE are a beneficial way for our Admissions Committee to evaluate the likelihood of academic success in our Full-Time MBA program, we recognize that some candidates can build a strong case for admission based on but not limited to the following criteria:
Q: Who can request a GMAT or GRE waiver? What do I need to include in my request?
A: All applicants for the Full-Time MBA program can request a GMAT/GRE waiver from within their application. In order to submit an application to our Full-Time MBA program, you must either have an approved waiver OR submit a GMAT or GRE score.
To request a GMAT/GRE waiver, you are required to submit your resume and transcripts (unofficial copies are accepted), and may also supply Executive Assessment, LSAT, or MCAT scores as supplemental materials (if available). You can view the full list of required and suggested materials for your GMAT/GRE waiver request from within the Full-Time MBA application.
Q: How long will it take to receive a test waiver decision?
A: We suggest that you submit your GMAT/GRE waiver as soon as possible. Depending on volume, it can take up to 14 business days to return your request decision.
Q: When is the last day that I can submit my test waiver form?
A: The Admissions Committee requires all applicants seeking a GMAT/GRE waiver to submit requests by the test waiver deadline for the round to which you are applying. You may continue working on the rest of your application as we process your decision, so we encourage you to request a waiver as one of the first steps in the application process. Should you have any questions about your waiver, please send us an email at mba_info@unc.edu.
Q: Will I be at a disadvantage for admission and/or fellowship consideration if I receive a waiver?
A: No. All applications will be considered holistically and you will not be at a disadvantage without a standardized test score. However, depending on your future goals, our team may advise you to take the GMAT/GRE to strengthen your application for internship and full-time recruiting processes.
Please note that the questions included on the waiver request form regarding future industry and function have no bearing on your waiver request status; we encourage you to answer these questions as honestly as possible so that we can connect you with one of our Career Coaches, if needed, to develop a testing plan that will best position you for success in the MBA recruiting process.
Q: If I do not fit the criteria to submit a test waiver or denied, does that mean I should not submit an application for the MBA program?
A: We encourage all candidates to apply for admission to the Full-Time MBA program regardless of being granted or denied a waiver. Our holistic application process is built to ensure that you’re prepared for our MBA program. Over 54% of our students come from non-business backgrounds and a test waiver is not the only credential taken into consideration throughout the admissions process.
Q: I am applying through The Consortium. Am I still eligible to apply for a test waiver?
A: Yes, you can still request a waiver. Please see the information on the Consortium website as a reference to navigating the test score waiver process.
Q: I’ve had a significant update or change to my materials since submitting my waiver request (such as a promotion, new test score, or other achievement). What should I do?
A: Yes! Applicants are encouraged to update the admissions committee by email at mba_info@unc.edu so that we may consider it in our final review for admission and fellowship awards.
If you receive a testing waiver, but elect to take the GMAT/GRE and receive a strong score, we encourage you to submit your scores to mba_info@unc.edu. We encourage you to review our class of 2023 profile here as you consider providing optional score reports.
Q: I took the GMAT/GRE and didn’t score as well as I’d hoped. My scores were sent directly to UNC Kenan-Flagler from my testing service, but I don’t think they reflect my ability and I’d like for them to be excluded from my application. Can I still request a waiver?
A: No, applicants who provide test scores may not receive waivers after reporting scores. All unofficial scores reported in your application and official scores provided to the following school codes will be considered as part of your application for admission to the Full-Time MBA program.
GMAT: D40-HL-72
GRE: 5046
Each application undergoes a thorough, comprehensive review as part of our holistic application process. Standardized test scores are only one indicator of a student’s potential ability, and many other data points are considered to ultimately gain a complete understanding of your potential for success at UNC Kenan-Flagler. The Admissions Committee will thoughtfully consider all materials provided in your application to determine the final outcome of your application for admission.
We encourage you to use the optional essay to address any challenges you may have faced in taking your test so that the admissions committee may consider the context of your scores.
Q: What are you hoping to see on an applicant’s “Waiver Statement”? How will this be considered in my request?
A: Please use the Waiver Statement to briefly summarize any academic or professional experiences that you see as strong indicators of your academic ability to succeed in the MBA classroom, particularly quantitative experience, such that a standardized test score would be a redundant measure of your abilities.
Q: I have already received a testing waiver for another Kenan-Flagler MBA application, do I need to request another for the full-time application?
A: Yes, all testing waivers and applications are only valid for the MBA format applied (Full-Time, Evening, Weekend Executive, Online). You may use materials (resume, transcript) from a different MBA format request, but all Full-Time MBA applicants must formally request a testing waiver through their Full-Time MBA program application for consideration.
Q: If I received a waiver last year, can I use it for this year’s application?
A: No, because waiver requirements for this year’s cycle have changed. You will need to submit a new request.
Q: I applied to 2022 Round 4 and was granted a waiver, but denied admission. Should I take the GMAT/GRE this year?
A: Re-applicants are considered on the merits of individual applications in the applicant pool for a given admissions cycle. We encourage you to submit a new waiver request and answer the updated questions so that the Admissions Committee can reach out with any additional guidance specific to your future career goals.
Q. Do you accept three-year undergraduate degrees?
A: If you received a bachelor’s degree as part of a three-year undergraduate program, you are eligible to apply to our Full-Time MBA program. You will need to supply copies of your academic record and the diploma, degree certificate, or other documentation indicating the conferral date of your degree.
Q. Does my transcript need to be verified by WES?
A: No it does not. We require an unofficial transcript (in English) to be uploaded into your online application for our Admissions Committee to fully evaluate your candidacy.
Q. Can I waive the TOEFL, IELTS or PTE requirement?
A: You’ll need to provide an English-language test score from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic if English is not your native language, unless: (1) you’ve earned an undergraduate or graduate degree at a U.S. college or university, (2) your education was completed exclusively in English in an English-speaking country, or (3) you received an undergraduate or graduate degree from a university in Hong Kong or India (in some cases, we may request test scores from Indian candidates).
Q. What is your minimum TOEFL/ IELTS/PTE Academic score requirement?
A:
Minimum Total Score
TOEFL: 100
IELTS: 7.0
PTE: 68
Preferred Speaking Score
TOEFL: 24
IELTS: 7.5
PTE: 65
Q. How many international students do you admit?
A: We do not admit a specific number of international or domestic students. We review all complete applications and grant admission accordingly.
Q. Am I required to have a student visa?
A. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to secure a student visa. This process can be started as soon as you are admitted to the Full-Time MBA Program.
The International Student & Scholar Services office can help you through the student visa application process. This office issues the I-20 and DS-2019 forms (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant F-1 and J-1 Student Status) to all eligible incoming non-U.S. citizen students. Keep in mind that federal regulations require you to complete the MBA Financial Certificate to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover expenses for the length of your studies. If you have any questions, contact our MBA International Student Advisor, Jessica Larsen, at larsenj@email.unc.edu.
Q. Do I need to submit my financial support documents when I apply?
A: No, you do not have to submit financial support documents when applying. If you are granted admission, then you will be required to submit financial documents in order to secure your I-20. If you have specific questions related to I-20s or student visas, please contact Jessica Larsen, MBA International Student Advisor, at jessica_larsen@unc.edu.
Q: Is an interview required?
A: Yes, interviews are required. Select candidates will be invited to interview by the admissions committee after submitting a complete MBA application. Applicants who are invited to interview may do so virtually or in-person. The admissions committee does not have a preference on interview format chosen.
Q: How much weight does the interview carry?
A: The interview is an opportunity for you to learn more about UNC Kenan-Flagler, and it gives us a chance to hear from you. We review each candidate holistically. Your interview, test scores, academic accomplishments, work experience, recommendations, and essay responses are all considered and it’s the combination of these elements that help us best evaluate your application.
Q: How long does an interview last, and how is it conducted?
A: The MBA admissions interview will last 30 minutes. The interviewer will ask you a series of questions to learn more about you, your achievements and your goals during the 30-minute session, and you will have an opportunity to ask one or two questions at the end of the interview, if time remains.
Q: What are the program codes for the GMAT, GRE, and language exams (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE Academic)?
A: Our GMAT program code is D40-HL-72. Our GRE program code is 5046. And our program code for any of the language exams is 5816.
Q: Does UNC Kenan-Flagler accept the GRE score in place of the GMAT?
A: We accept the GRE in place of the GMAT. We do not have a preference for which exam you take, but we do not offer waivers so you must submit a test score.
Q: I sent my test score to UNC Kenan-Flagler last year. Do you still have my scores?
A: UNC Kenan-Flagler will keep your scores for two years from the date it was sent. If your score was sent last year, and has not expired, you do not need to re-submit it this year. GMAT and GRE scores are valid for five years.
Q. Can I submit unofficial test scores when I apply? When do I need to submit official scores?
A: Official test scores are not required until after admission to the Full-Time MBA program. For the GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, PTE & IELTS tests, official score reports will be updated in the record only after a candidate accepts an offer of admission. If you have had official test score reports sent to UNC Kenan-Flagler, or have self-reported your test scores, please ignore the awaiting official scores warnings in your application checklist. If you have questions about official test scores, please send them to Deepa Nair at deepa_nair@kenan-flagler.unc.edu.
Q: I submitted my application before I took the GMAT. Unfortunately, I scored lower than I’d hoped, and I’d like to retake it. Can I make sure that you won’t consider my application until after I send you my new scores?
A: Yes, you can retake and submit your new scores at a later date. Please contact our admissions team at mba_info@unc.edu as soon as possible and let us know that you plan retake the test along with the new test date. If necessary, we’ll move your application to a later admissions round.
Q: Does UNC Kenan-Flagler accept any English-language tests in place of the TOEFL?
A: Yes, we also accept the IELTS, the PTE, and the University of Cambridge Test of English.
Q: Who is required to submit an English-language test score, such as the TOEFL?
A: You’ll need to provide an English-language test score if English is not your native language, unless: (1) you’ve earned an undergraduate or graduate degree at a U.S. college or university, (2) your education was completed exclusively in English in an English-speaking country, or (3) you received an undergraduate or graduate degree from a university in Hong Kong or India*. (In some cases, we may request test scores from Indian candidates.)
Q. What is your minimum TOEFL/ IELTS/PTE Academic score requirement?
A:
Minimum Total Score
TOEFL: 100
IELTS: 7.0
PTE: 68
Preferred Speaking Score
TOEFL: 24
IELTS: 7.5
PTE: 65
Q. Can I submit unofficial transcripts when I apply?
A: Yes, you can submit unofficial transcripts during the application process. If admitted and enrolled, you must submit official transcripts before the first day study at UNC Kenan-Flagler.
Q. Do you require all transcripts from institutions that I attended?
A: Yes, you will need to supply transcripts of all academic work you’ve completed at the baccalaureate/undergraduate and graduate levels. This includes:
Q. How much is the tuition in the Full-Time MBA program?
A: UNC-Chapel Hill and Kenan-Flagler Business School is a public institution and has two tuition rates based on your North Carolina residency status. For more information about tuition rates, please visit our tuition and fees website.
Q. How do I qualify for North Carolina in-state tuition?
A: If you believe that you qualify as a North Carolina resident under state law, you’ll need to submit a residency application with the North Carolina Residency Determination Services (RDS), a government agency. All residency decisions, and appeals, are determined by RDS.