When reviewing applications, we look for candidates who "fit" with the Tippie program—academically, professionally, and personally. For more details, check out our class profile.

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Bachelor's degree. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. We don't have a minimum GPA requirement, but check our class profile to see if your score falls in the range typically admitted.
• GMAT score. All applications must include a Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) score report. We don't have a minimum GMAT requirement, but check our class profile to see if your score falls in the range typically admitted.
• TOEFL or IELTS score. International students must submit scores from the TOEFL or IELTS. Waivers are possible; see International Applicants for minimum score requirements and more information.
• Work experience. All applicants are strongly recommended to have a minimum of 2 years full-time postbaccalaureate work experience; this is particularly important for international applicants.

See the application checklist for a complete list of application materials. Can't find the answer to your question here? Read the FAQ.

Evaluation Criteria

The Admissions Committee considers your potential for success both while at Tippie and in the years beyond B-school. Each application is reviewed in three basic areas:

• Career
• Academics
• Community

Career Criteria

The qualities that contribute to the success of our graduates can be found early in their careers.

At least 2 years of work experience is recommended for all applicants, and more so for international applicants. Successful candidates have 3 to 5 years of experience.

Qualities sought include:

• Track record of success and increasing responsibility
• Resourcefulness
• Sense of personal direction
• Time-management skills
• Team-building skills
• Realistic expectations for the MBA
• A macro view of business and organizations
• Understanding of or exposure to higher-level decision making
• Ability to connect relevance of past work experience to post-MBA goals

What the Committee Looks At

Evidence of the qualities that most frequently lead to successful business professionals may be found in your:

• Letters of recommendation
• Responses to essays
• Resume, including job titles, time at each position, and progression of responsibility
• Cover letter
• Professional recognition or certifications
• Communication skills demonstrated in the interview

Academic Criteria

We look for both the ability and desire to thrive within a challenging and motivating academic environment. Qualities we look for include:

• Academic preparedness
• Intellectual curiosity
• Communication skills

What the Committee Looks At

Some areas we look to for evidence of academic preparedness, intellectual curiosity, and communications skills include the following:

• GMAT score (we do not have a minimum GMAT requirement; however, successful candidates score at or above the class average of 662)
• TOEFL/IELTS (if applicable)
• Undergraduate GPA, especially the latter years
• Academic recognition
• Merit-based scholarships
• Professional certifications and continuing education
• Mastery of oral and written communication
• Appears to be well-read
• Interest in current affairs
• Interest in areas outside your immediate environment

Community Criteria

We want to know how your unique personal and professional experience will add to a strong, congenial Tippie MBA class that supports and pushes its members to be the best they can be. We look for these qualities:

• Leadership
• Respect for others
• Philanthropic tendencies
• Fit with Tippie

What the Committee Looks At

Evidence of a candidate's ability to fit in as well as make a contribution to the school’s culture and community include:

• Responses to essay questions
• Admission interview
• Letters of recommendation
• A history of long-term community service
• Contributions of personal time to an organization
• Evidence of enthusiasm regarding social, community, or political issues