Frequently Asked Questions
Work Experience
Is work experience required for admission?
Is work experience required if I am pursuing a joint degree?
Why is work experience important?
Applications
Can you tell me what my chances for admission are without filling out an application?
Can I get an application fee waiver?
Can I apply with 15 years of education (a 3-year bachelor's)?
How do you translate my GPA if it isn't on a 4.0 scale?
Do you accept a certain number of students from each region or country?
When should I apply/when is the best time to apply to have the best chance for a financial award?
How long after I apply will I receive your decision?
Why is your application deadline later than most?
Can I transfer my credits from another MBA program over to Tippie?
I've started taking part-time classes at Iowa; can I switch over to the full-time MBA?
Application Materials (Recommendations, Transcripts, etc.)
How can I check the status of my application or application materials?
What are the transcript requirements?
Will you accept copies of transcripts?
Can I send my transcripts electronically?
My references haven't received anything to fill out—why not?
GMAT and Test Scores
What's the minimum GMAT score needed to apply?
I didn't do that great on the GMAT; should I still apply?
How do I get a GMAT score report to you?
TOEFL/English Language Exam Requirements
What's the minimum score requirements for TOEFL and IELTS?
Am I required to take the TOEFL/IELTS?
How do I send my scores to Tippie?
International Students
When should I send in my financial statement and documentation?
What financial evidence is required for an I-20 or DS-2019?
Do you allow conditional admission without a GMAT score?
Campus Visits
Can I apply for campus visit travel cost reimbursement?
I can't make it to campus for an interview. Is there an alternate way to interview?
Tuition & Financial Awards
What types of financial awards do you have available?
How many scholarships do you award each year?
What's the average financial award package for an international student?
Are financial awards available for joint degree students?
How much is tuition for joint degree students?
I've been living out of Iowa since high school. Can I get resident tuition?
When should I apply to have the best chances for a financial award?
Career Services
How many students received offers last year, and what were their salaries?
How many offers last year were a result of MBA Career Services?
In which cities do most Tippie students find employment?
Curriculum
What are the concentrations I can choose from?
Do I need to choose a single concentration, or can I double-major?
Can I have courses waived if they overlap with my work experience/previous education?
Can I audit a course?
What courses do you offer in entrepreneurship?
Can I major in nonprofit management?
Online Chats
I'm having trouble logging in. Help!
Work Experience
Is work experience required for admission to the program?
For domestic candidates: 2 years of post-undergrad work experience is recommended, but we review each case individually. Past "straight-through" admits have had at least 2 internships and a strong application in all other areas (test score, interview, leadership, GPA, etc.). See below for information on joint degree-seeking candidates.
For international candidates: 2 years of post-undergrad work experience is not required, but it is strongly encouraged. Why the emphasis on work experience? First, without work experience, it would be difficult to relate/contribute to classroom discussions. Second, most MBA employers aren't willing to hire an MBA without work experience. Further, you'll need to be company-sponsored to work in the U.S., which makes the job search more challenging already -- and adding a lack of work experience to that equation will make it even more difficult. Work experience puts you on par with other U.S. MBA students and makes you more competitive. It is uncommon for international candidates without post-undergrad work experience to gain admission at Tippie.
Is work experience required if I am interested in pursuing a joint degree?
Two years is recommended, but joint degree students get special consideration in this area, since joint students usually look for work in the area of their non-MBA degree. This eliminates the concern that they may not be able to find MBA-level work. We look to the other areas of the application (academics, test score, interview) to make up for the experience shortfall.
Why is work experience important?
First, much of the learning that takes place at Tippie is based on previous work experience. Without it, it would be difficult to contribute to team/classroom discussions. Second, most MBA employers are unwilling to hire someone without prior experience; without it, the job search can be quite challenging. For these reasons, it is in the your best interest to obtain experience before applying to the program.
Applications
Can you tell me what my chances for admission are without filling out an application?
Meeting the minimum criteria for admission makes you eligible to apply, but the only 100% accurate way to find out your chances for admission is to submit an application. The best way to determine this on your own is to review our class profile and compare your qualifications with admitted students. Note our average GMAT score and years of work experience in particular. Please also be aware that the admissions interview is a critical factor when considering someone for admission.
Can I get an application fee waiver?
We award fee waivers to potential applicants who exceed our admission criteria, have a background/career goals aligned with our program's strengths, and who stand out from their peers. To be considered, send a resume, GMAT score (we cannot evaluate for a fee waiver using a GRE score), and a short statement of your post-MBA goals to tippiemba@uiowa.edu (use subject line "Full-time MBA Fee Waiver"). A member of the admissions team will review your credentials to determine eligibility and respond within 3-5 business days.
Can I apply with 15 years of education (3-year bachelor's degree)?
The preferred profile includes 16 years of education, but an exception for 3-year Bachelor's degree holders can be made on a case-by-case basis. A full application is needed in order to be considered for the exception, so the first step is to apply to Tippie.
How will you translate my GPA if it isn't on a 4.0 scale?
Visit our international applicants page for details on GPA translation.
Do you accept a certain number of students from each region or country?
We don't evaluate based on region, but we do look at international students in comparison to other international students, because we manage the number of international students in each class for balance and diversity. Check out our typical class profile.
When should I apply? When is the best time to apply in order to have the best chances for a financial award?
Application deadlines can be found on the Admissions homepage. We begin reviewing applications in mid-December and review on a rolling basis (weekly) thereafter. An earlier application has better probability of receiving a financial award since the "pot" of aid is larger at that point. For domestic students, applying anytime from August to April is fine. However, if you are an international student, April 15 is the final deadline, and we have had instances in the past where selections from certain countries were already complete or students could not obtain a visa in time for the start of classes.
How long after I apply will I receive your decision?
We begin returning admissions decisions in mid-December. After turning in a complete application (view the application checklist), allow 2-3 weeks for processing by the Office of Admissions (at peak times, 3-4 weeks). After we receive it in the Tippie MBA office, it takes about one to two weeks for us to return a decision. After you submit the online application, you'll receive a login to ISIS, our internal system, where you can see which application materials have been received by the Office of Admissions. The remainder of your application materials come to the Tippie MBA offices, and you will receive automated e-mails about any missing items. If you have not received a decision within 4 weeks of completing all pieces of your application, please let us know right away.
Why is your application deadline later than most?
Iowa universities are publicly funded and managed by the State Board of Regents, which believes strongly in student access to education. As a result, the application deadlines we provide throughout the University are typically later than many educational institutions.
My references haven't received anything to fill out. Why not?
The references you listed in your application will not receive a recommendation form automatically. We will reach out to them via email or phone if the admissions committee deems it necessary to obtain recommendations. If they would prefer to submit a recommendation online or in writing before it is requested, visit our Recommendations page for instructions.
Can I transfer my credits from another MBA program over to Tippie?
We accept up to 9 semester hours of credit from AACSB-accredited institutions.
I've started taking part-time MBA classes at Iowa; can I switch to the full-time program?
Yes, provided that you meet the full-time program's more stringent admission requirements, you can transfer from Iowa's MBA for Professionals and Managers program (MBA-PM). It's very common for students to make the switch, particularly if they want to take advantage of the full-time program's financial awards and employment resources. Even better, those who do make the switch can often enjoy a lighter class load than their peers. Contact the Admissions Team to find out more.
Application Materials (Recommendations, Transcripts, etc.)
How can I check the status of my application or application materials?
GMAT or TOEFL Score and Transcripts - Only those candidates who have submitted the online application have the ability to check the status of transcripts, GMAT scores, or TOEFL scores. After submitting your application, you'll receive a HawkID and password from the Office of Graduate Admissions (allow at least a week to receive yours, especially January-March).
What are the transcript requirements?
See the Transcript page for details.
Will you accept a copy of my transcripts?
Hard copies of your transcripts should be sent to the Office of Admissions in a sealed envelope from the undergraduate institution. Copies typically aren't accepted. However, we realize it can be difficult for international students to get originals in some cases. If this applies to you, please contact the Office of Admissions; they'll make the determination on whether or not they will accept a specific transcript. They can be reached at intlmail@uiowa.edu or 319-335-1534. If you are allowed to submit a copy, please note that your admission will not be official until transcripts from the issuing institution are received.
Can I send you my transcripts electronically?
Hard copies are required. See the above question/answer for details.
GMAT and Test Scores Questions
What is the minimum GMAT score to apply?
We do not require a minimum GMAT score, but in order to be seriously considered for the program, it will be necessary for you to obtain a score in the range of scores we typically admit (check out the class profile to see the range).
GRE scores are accepted in rare circumstances and on a case-by-case basis (details can be found on our Test Scores page). Contact us to determine if this is applicable to your situation.
I didn't do that great on the GMAT; should I still apply?
The GMAT is a very important factor in the admissions decision, because it's usually an indicator of future performance in the classroom. A strong application in all other areas, in particular your work background, can certainly help to make up for a slightly low score. If your score is far below our middle 80% range, we recommend retaking before applying.
How do I get a GMAT score report to you?
Start at MBA.com and follow the links to the GMAT section and GMAT Score Reporting. The University of Iowa GMAT institution code is 6681.
English Language Exam Requirements—TOEFL
What's the minimum score requirements for TOEFL and IELTS?
Visit our English Exam Requirements page for details.
Am I required to take the TOEFL?
The TOEFL is required for international students whose native language is something other than English, though there are circumstances where the TOEFL can be waived. Visit our English Exam Requirements page for details.
How do I send my scores to Tippie?
Start at TOEFL.org or IELTS.org. The University of Iowa TOEFL institution code is 6681. The Internet-based test will have scores to us in 3 weeks, provided you list The University of Iowa as a recipient of your scores. The paper test takes 5 weeks to send scores to us.
International Students
When should I send in my financial statement and documentation?
We do not require your financial statement and financial documents until after you have been admitted. Some applicants choose to submit this at the same time as the application, which is permitted. Send your documentation to the Office of Graduate Admissions, 107 Calvin Hall, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. With questions about exactly what documentation is needed, see below or contact Graduate Admissions.
What financial evidence is required for an I-20 or DS-2019?
Once recommended for admission, applicants from other countries must submit evidence of adequate support to cover the costs of one full year of study at The University of Iowa before a certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019) will be issued. Graduate research or a teaching assistantship may be used to satisfy this financial requirement. Students with dependents must include additional financial support for any dependents who accompany them. Submit this information using the University of Iowa's Financial Statement for International Applicants.
Be sure to attach the appropriate attested supporting documents. Your admission cannot be finalized without proper certification of financial ability to provide support. Applicants from countries with currency restrictions that make it difficult to transfer funds to the U.S. may be required to submit an advance deposit before admission is confirmed and a Certificate of Eligibility is issued. With additional questions, contact Graduate Admissions.
Do you allow conditional admission without a GMAT score?
No. All candidates must have a GMAT score (or, if an exception was granted, a GRE) to be considered for admission.
Campus Visits
Can I apply for campus visit travel cost reimbursement?
We base reimbursement on whether or not your credentials exceed our average admission criteria including GMAT score, GPA, and quality/quantity of work experience (view the averages on our class profile). When you register for your campus visit, include your GMAT score if you have one. Please note that your admissibility and potential for being awarded a financial award is not related to travel reimbursement.
I can't make it to campus for an interview. Is there an alternative way to interview?
If you can't come to campus, we'll conduct your admissions interview over Skype. Skype interviews are by invitation only; your application will go through a preliminary review before an interview is scheduled. We require the use of Skype for off-campus candidate interviews, so keep in mind you may need to borrow a webcam. Skype software is free to download.
Tuition & Financial Awards
What types of financial awards do you have available?
Merit-based financial awards are offered to outstanding candidates. The criteria for these awards mirror those for admission. Those with the highest qualifications receive offers for merit-based aid. Both domestic and international applicants are eligible. All students are considered for financial awards at the time of admission. No separate application is required.
Aid awards can be a scholarship alone or a Graduate Assistantship plus scholarship. The average financial award package for fall 2011's entering class was approximately $15,330. Keep in mind that the average package includes a Graduate Assistantship (GA), which allows all recipients to pay resident tuition; this provides an additional tuition discount of around $15,000.
The average scholarship is approximately $8,100 per year. GAs provide a salary of about $8,400 annually, a contribution toward health insurance, and resident tuition status for non-Iowa residents.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents may apply for aid sponsored by the federal government by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is a first step in applying for state loans and some private funding sources.
International students may apply for the MBA Loans Tuition Loan Program if a co-signer who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident is available. The Global Student Loan Corporation also provides funding for international students.
How many scholarships do you award each year?
The number of packages varies, because scholarship funding changes from year to year. On average, about 75% of enrolled students receive a financial award of some sort. About 30-40% of those receive award packages that completely cover the cost of resident tuition.
What's the average financial award package for an international student?
Over 70% percent of the international students enrolled in Fall 2011 entering class received a financial award. It's common for strong international students to receive a graduate assistantship, which allows them to pay resident tuition (view costs). The number of international students receiving awards depends on funding availability and the strength of all the applications we receive, domestic and international.
Are financial awards available for joint degree students?
For exemplary candidates with strong work experience, there is a possibility of receiving financial awards. Many joint degree candidates receive financial awards through their main program (J.D. or MHA, for example).
How much is tuition for the joint degree programs?
You would pay the higher of the two tuitions. For JD/MBA, the law school's tuition is higher, so you would pay 4 years of the JD tuition rate. For MHA/MBA, the MBA tuition is the higher of the two; you would pay 3 years of that tuition rate.
I've been living out of state since high school. Can I get resident tuition?
If you graduated from an Iowa high school and have at least one parent living or buried in Iowa, you may be considered a resident after doing the following: obtain an Iowa driver's license, register to vote in Iowa, and obtain an Iowa vehicle registration. You'll need to fill out the Application for Resident Classification after the above three items are completed and submit it to have your status changed, and be approved by the Registrar. Contact the Registrar's office to ensure you meet all qualifications for residency.
Career Services
How many students received offers last year, and what were their salaries?
This information is located in our Placement Statistics page.
How many offers were a result of MBA Career Services?
This information is located in our Placement Statistics page.
In which cities do most Tippie students find employment?
Our students seek employment opportunities in many parts of the country. Of course, as a Midwestern program, our network is stronger and larger in the Midwest, with Chicago and Minneapolis as our largest two markets. You can get a more detailed breakdown either on our Placement Statistics page or by looking at our Interactive Placement Map. Be sure to download the latest Placement Report for details (this link can be found at the top of the Placement Statistics page).
Curriculum
What are the concentrations I can choose from?
Check out our academics section for more information.
Do I need to a choose a single track, or can I double-major?
We encourage students to choose one primary track (and consequently, one career academy) given the need to have depth in a concentration area. However, regardless of the track you choose, you have significant flexibility in taking courses from other academies and tracks. More information about minors is located in the Curriculum section of our site. The concentrations are not denoted on your diploma so you may market yourself with prerequisite skill sets in those areas in which you've taken classes.
Can I have courses waived if they overlap with my work experience/previous education?
We typically waive students out of core MBA coursework if they've obtained a major in that area. For example, if you were an accounting undergrad, you would be waived from the core accounting course (provided you earned good grades in those undergrad courses). We look at your transcripts after you're admitted and before the start of classes to determine waivers. A waiver means you don't have to take that particular core course, but you would need to choose another course in its place to make up the credit hours.
Can I audit a course?
Unfortunately, we do not allow MBA nor non-MBA students to audit MBA core courses. Certainly, we would welcome your application to the MBA program for next year if your interest in the MBA continues.
What courses do you offer in entrepreneurship?
Our entrepreneurship curriculum is delivered through the College of Business' John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC). JPEC has several courses on business planning, all of which are available to MBAs. The center also offers the Bedell Entrepreneurship Learning Laboratory in which students have an opportunity to build their business plan, be mentored by entrepreneurs, and develop their business prototype. In some cases, the students also have launched their own business through the school.
Can I major in nonprofit management?
We do not offer nonprofit management as a concentration. However, if you pursue an MBA at Tippie, you will gain the skills needed to work in a nonprofit arena. The university has several offerings in non-profit organizational effectiveness that you can take as electives.
Back to top >>
Online Chats
I'm having trouble logging in. Help!
Check out the Chat Instructions for step-by-step instructions and common errors/troubleshooting steps. Remember that you need to wait until 15 minutes before the chat starts in order to enter the chat room. If you don't yet see a "login" link, continue to refresh the page until it appears.
Is a registered trademark of the Tippie College of Business
The University of Iowa • © Copyright & Disclaimer 2012
Henry B. Tippie College of Business • 108 John Pappajohn Business Building • Iowa City, IA 52242-1994 •
319-335-0862
Site Map • Comments/Questions • Last updated on 03/27/2012