The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is one of the most prestigious business schools globally and has consistently set the standard for business education. We know almost all business school hopefuls have Wharton on their ‘dream school’ list. So, if you want to make this dream school a reality, this article is your starting point.
Quick Facts :
- Wharton MBA Acceptance Rate: 9-12% (varies by year)
- Average GMAT Score: 735
- Average GPA: 3.7
- Total Tuition & Fees: $132,404/year
- Average Base Salary: $185,000
- Application Fee: $275
- Program Duration: 20 months
- Class Size: ~ 888 students
- Average Work Experience: 5 years
In this comprehensive guide, we dive deep into the Wharton MBA Program. From unveiling the unique Class of 2027’s profile to dissecting the career trajectory of the Class of 2025, we leave no stone unturned. We also explore application deadlines, the cost of attendance, scholarships, the admissions process, and the MBA curriculum.
Let’s get started with some general information.
General information on Wharton MBA
Here is some essential information about the Wharton MBA program:
| Wharton MBA Program | |
|---|---|
| Dean | Erika H. James |
| Location | 3733 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 |
| Admissions Office | Office of MBA Admissions and Financial Aid, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Vance Hall, Suite 111, 3733 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 |
| Phone | +215-898-6183 |
| Fax | +215-898-0120 |
| mba-admiss@wharton.upenn.edu | |
| Social Media | Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn |
Class Profile for Wharton MBA Class of 2027
The Wharton MBA Class of 2027 represents a dynamic and diverse group of students, embodying Wharton’s mission to develop leaders who drive innovation and impact across industries. Here’s a detailed look at the class profile, showcasing the breadth of academic, professional, and personal experiences that make up this exceptional cohort.
Class Overview
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Applications | 7,613 |
| Enrolled Students | 888 |
| Average Work Experience | 5 Years |
| Women | 44% |
| International Students | 26% |
| Countries Represented | 68 |
| LGBTQ+ Representation | 12% |
| First-Generation Students | 11% |
| Military Representation | 6% |
Source: Wharton MBA Class Profile 2027
Pre-MBA Industries
Source: Wharton MBA Class Profile 2027
Academic Background
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Average GPA | 3.7 (4.0 scale) |
| Average GMAT | 735 |
| Average GMAT Focus | 676 |
| Average GRE Quant | 163 |
| Average GRE Verbal | 162 |
Source: Wharton MBA Class Profile 2027
Undergraduate Majors
| Field of Study | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Business | 32% |
| STEM | 32% |
| Humanities | 36% |
Source: Wharton MBA Class Profile 2027
Key Takeaways
- Wharton’s Class of 2027 boasts an impressive level of diversity, with 26% international students representing 68 countries and 44% women.
- The class reflects a strong professional foundation, with an average of 5 years of work experience and significant representation from consulting (31%) and private equity/venture capital (15%).
- The academic profile is equally impressive, with an average GMAT score of 735, average GMAT Focus score of 676, and a balanced mix of business, STEM, and humanities undergraduate majors.
This well-rounded and accomplished class is set to thrive in Wharton’s rigorous MBA program, bringing varied perspectives and experiences to the classroom.
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Wharton MBA Admissions
Application Deadlines
The admissions process is conducted in multiple rounds, providing applicants with several opportunities to submit their materials.
Here are the deadlines:
| Application Rounds | Application Deadline | Interview Invitations | Decisions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | September 3, 2025 | October 22, 2025 | December 10, 2025 |
| Round 2 | January 6, 2026 | February 20, 2026 | March 31, 2026 |
| Round 3 | April 1, 2026 | April 17, 2026 | May 12, 2026 |
| Deferred Admissions Round | April 22, 2026 | May 27, 2026 | July 1, 2026 |
Source: Wharton MBA Application Deadlines
Wharton MBA Application Components
Securing a spot in the Wharton MBA program involves a comprehensive application process that assesses candidates based on various criteria. Below is a breakdown of the key components required for a complete application and insights into each element:
| Application Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Background Information | – Contact information (e.g., mailing address and phone number) – Date of birth – Academic degrees earned – Professional experience – Family information – Prior Conviction Information |
| Application Fee | – The application fee is $275 and non-refundable. – Payment can be made by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express) along with the application. |
| Essays | – 2 Required Essays – 1 Reapplicant Essay – 1 Optional Essay |
| Transcripts | – Transcripts of all academic work completed at the baccalaureate/undergraduate level and beyond are required. – Regardless of credit or degree, transcripts are a crucial component. |
| Letters of Recommendation | – Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the candidate’s work performance, preferably from a current or former supervisor. |
| GMAT or GRE Score | – All applicants must submit GMAT or GRE results no more than five years old. |
| English Language Test Score | – Non-native English speakers with limited exposure to English must provide results from TOEFL iBT, PTE, or IELTS. – Required for those whose native language is not English or completed a degree in a non-English institution. |
| Resume | – A one-page resume highlighting functional job skills, depth of experience, leadership, and potential for growth. – Emphasizes learning and skills acquired rather than the duration of work experience. |
Source: Wharton MBA Application Guide
Wharton MBA Interview
Securing an interview invitation for the Wharton MBA program is a significant milestone, and if you find yourself in this position, you’ll likely engage in an innovative interview format known as the Wharton MBA Team Based Discussion (TBD). Let’s delve into the details of this unique interview process.
Interview Format Overview
| Duration | 35 minutes |
| Participants | 5-6 fellow MBA applicants |
| Objective | Collaborative problem-solving |
| Assignment | Team-based task with a prompt |
| Random Assignment | TBD groups are assigned randomly |
In the TBD, candidates engage in a 35-minute exercise that simulates a team setting, providing a glimpse into their ability to collaborate and solve problems collectively. Here’s what you can expect:
- Team Setting: You’ll interact with 5-6 fellow MBA applicants.
- Assigned Prompt: The discussion revolves around a prompt with a specific purpose.
- Collaborative Outcome: As a team, you’ll work together to achieve a tangible outcome based on the given prompt.
- Random Group Assignment: TBD groups are assigned randomly, promoting diversity and testing adaptability.
Following the TBD, candidates proceed to a 10-minute one-on-one interview with a member of the admissions team. This individual interview offers an opportunity for reflection on your TBD performance and provides additional insights into your candidacy.
Wharton MBA Employment Report (Class of 2025 ) : Salary & Placement Data
The Wharton MBA Class of 2025 demonstrates strong career outcomes across various industries, functions, and locations. With an impressive employment rate and competitive compensation packages, Wharton continues to deliver exceptional career opportunities for its graduates. Below is an in-depth look at the employment data.
Employment Summary
| Category | Number | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Total Graduates | 879 | 100% |
| Seeking Employment | 608 | 69.2% |
| Reporting Job Offers | 550 | 90.5% (of seeking) |
| Reporting Job Acceptances | 529 | 87.0% (of seeking) |
| Not Seeking Employment | 223 | 25.4% |
| – Returning to Company | 150 | 17% |
| – Self-Employed/Starting Business | 46 | 5.2% |
| – Postponed Job Search/Continuing Education | 16 | 1.8% |
| – Personal Reasons/Other | 11 | 1.2% |
Source: Wharton MBA Career Report 2025
Observations:
- A high percentage of job seekers (90.5%) received offers, and 87.0% accepted them within three months of graduation.
- Nearly 25% of the class did not seek employment, with 17% returning to their previous employers and 5.2% pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.
Salaries by Industry
| Industry | Percent Accepts | Median Salary (US $) |
|---|---|---|
| Consulting | 28.2% | $190,000 |
| Financial Services | 38.2% | $175,000 |
| – Hedge Funds/Other Investments | 0.4% | $200,000 |
| – Insurance & Diversified Services | 2.1% | $165,000 |
| – Investment Banking/Brokerage | 14.2 | $175,000 |
| – Investment Management | 5.3% | $175,000 |
| – Private Equity/Buyouts/Other | 13.4% | $200,000 |
| – Venture Capital | 2.8% | $170,000 |
| Fintech | 1.5% | $165,000 |
| Consumer Products | 0.9% | $137,500 |
| Technology | 17.9% | $164,250 |
| Health Care | 3.8% | $155,000 |
| Legal & Professional Services | 2.5% | $235,000 |
| Media/Entertainment & Sports | 0.8% | – |
| Manufacturing | 1.9% | $155,000 |
| Retail | 2.1% | $162,500 |
| Energy | 1.1% | $165,000 |
| Real Estate | 1.9% | $150,000 |
| Social Impact | 1.5% | $147,806 |
| Travel & Hospitality | 0.4% | – |
Source: Wharton MBA Career Report 2025
Observations:
- Consulting and financial services remain top choices, offering competitive median salaries ($190,000 and $175,000, respectively) and high sign-on bonuses.
- Legal & Professional Services offer some of the highest median salaries ($235,000), reflecting the lucrative opportunities in these fields.
- The technology industry, a popular field, offers a median salary of $164,250, accounting for nearly 18% of the class hired.
Salaries by Function
| Function | Percent Accepts | Median Salary (US $) |
|---|---|---|
| Analytics/Data Science | 1.1% | $162,580 |
| Business Development | 4.2% | 171,989 |
| Consulting/Strategy | 31.4 | 183,976 |
| Corporate Finance (Analysis/Treasury) | 1.5 | $155,143 |
| Entrepreneurial Management | 0.9 | 134,427 |
| General/Project Mgmt/Mgmt Development | 10.2 | 152,169 |
| Investment Banking | 13.0 | 180,982 |
| Investment Management/Portfolio Mgmt | 6.0 | 190,917 |
| Investor Relations | 0.4 | – |
| Legal Services | 2.8 | 218,125 |
| Management Information Systems/IT | 0.8 | 155,000 |
| Operations/Production Management/Supply Chain | 1.9 | 165,300 |
| Portfolio Company Operations/Value Creation | 1.7 | 194,444 |
| Private Equity/Venture Capital – Investor | 13.0 | 188,879 |
| Product Management | 5.9 | 179,721 |
| Product/Brand Marketing | 2.3 | 155,333 |
| Real Estate | 1.5 | 149,143 |
| Sustainability/Environment | 0.2 | – |
Source: Wharton MBA Career Report 2025
Observations:
- Consulting, private equity/venture capital-investor, and investment banking lead in popularity, with private equity/venture capital-investor offering the highest median salary of $188,879 among the popular functions.
- Legal Services offers the highest median salary of $218,125, accounting for 2,8% of the class hired.
Salaries by Location
| Region | Median Salary (US $) |
|---|---|
| U.S. (All) | $185,000 |
| – Mid-Atlantic | $190,000 |
| – Midwest | $190,000 |
| – Northeast | $185,000 |
| – South | $190,000 |
| – Southwest | $177,500 |
| – West | $175,000 |
| International | $135,000 |
| – Asia | $135,000,000 |
| – Europe | $119,728 |
Source: Wharton MBA Career Report 2025
Observations:
- The overall median salary across the U.S. is $185,000.
- International roles offered slightly lower median salaries ($135,000), but still competitive for global markets.
Key Takeaways
- Wharton graduates enjoy strong career outcomes, with 90.5% of job seekers receiving offers within three months of graduation.
- Consulting and financial services dominate industry placements, with high median salaries and significant sign-on bonuses.
- Entrepreneurship remains an important path, with 5.2% of graduates starting their own businesses.
- Wharton’s global reputation is evident in its diverse job locations and high compensation across industries and functions.
This data reinforces Wharton’s position as a top choice for ambitious MBA candidates seeking exceptional career opportunities.
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Wharton MBA Cost of Attendance
Pursuing an MBA at the Wharton School is a significant investment, but the program’s robust financial aid options ensure accessibility for talented candidates from diverse backgrounds. Here’s an overview of the tuition, cost of attendance, and scholarship opportunities for Wharton MBA students.
MBA Program Tuition and Cost Breakdown
The cost of attending the Wharton MBA program includes tuition, university fees, living expenses, and health insurance. Below is a detailed breakdown for the 2025–2026 academic year:
| Expense | First-Year Budget | Second-Year Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition/Fees | ||
| Tuition | $87,970 | $87,970 |
| University Fees | $4,850 | $4,850 |
| Total Tuition & Fees | $92,820 | $92,820 |
| Living Expenses | ||
| Housing | $19,390 | $19,390 |
| Food | $8,930 | $8,930 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,080 | $1,080 |
| Transportation | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Personal | $4,522 | $4,522 |
| Health Insurance | $4,662 | $4,662 |
| Total Living Expenses | $39,584 | $39,584 |
| Total MBA Cost | $132,404 | $132,404 |
Source: Wharton MBA Tuition Costs & Fees
Key Notes on Cost:
- Living Expenses include housing, food, and personal expenses for a moderate lifestyle.
- Health Insurance is mandatory, and the listed cost assumes enrollment in the university’s plan.
Wharton MBA Scholarships
Pursuing an MBA at the Wharton School is not only a transformative academic experience but also a financial commitment. To assist students in their educational journey, Wharton offers a variety of scholarships and fellowships catering to diverse backgrounds, achievements, and aspirations.
Wharton Fellowship Opportunities
Throughout the MBA program, students have access to fellowship opportunities, some with their own application process, award amounts, and criteria:
- Wharton Fellowship Program: All incoming students are considered, with fellowships being two-year awards, split equally over four semesters.
- Wharton Student Experience Fund (WSEF): A financial need fellowship to fund specific costs associated with a Global Modular Course, Global Immersion Program, Semester in San Francisco, or Leadership Venture.
- Academic Fellowships: These merit-based honors, including the Ford, Academic Excellence, Inselbag, Director’s List, and Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs Scholars fellowships, recognize top-tier GPA performance and quantitative expertise.
- Entrepreneurial Awards: The Penn Wharton Innovation Fund, Summer Venture Award, and Startup Internship Award provide financial backing for students launching their own ventures or interning within the startup ecosystem.
- Leadership Fellowships: The Behrman Family Fellowships are awarded to students who demonstrate a unique blend of proven leadership capabilities and financial need.
- Real Estate Fellowships: The Samuel Zell and Robert Lurie Real Estate Center Awards support high-potential students who show a dedicated commitment to excellence in the real estate industry.
Source: Wharton MBA Fellowships & Awards
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Get personalized guidance to craft a standout application, highlight your unique story, and maximize your chances of admission to Wharton.
Wharton MBA Program Overview
The Wharton MBA program is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum, providing a flexible and dynamic approach to learning. Let’s explore the intricacies of the program, including the curriculum structure, core courses, major requirements, and the extensive range of elective courses available.
MBA Curriculum Overview
The Wharton MBA Curriculum is structured into three categories, each contributing to a holistic learning experience:
| Curriculum Component | Credit Units (CU) |
|---|---|
| Core Curriculum | 9.5 CU |
| Major Requirements | 5.0 CU |
| Electives | 4.5 CU |
| Total | 19 CU |
Source: Wharton MBA Curriculum
MBA Core Curriculum
The MBA Core Curriculum forms the foundation of your Wharton education, blending fixed core and flexible core courses. This core curriculum, totaling 9.5 credit units (CUs), is divided into two parts:
(3.25 CU – First Semester)
(6.25 CU – First Semester or Later)
- Leadership: Foundations of Teamwork and Leadership
- Develop your personal leadership style through interactive simulations.
- Marketing: Marketing Management
- Apply analytical concepts and marketing tools to strategic decisions.
- Microeconomics: Microeconomics for Managers
- Master the fundamental theory of microeconomics.
- Microeconomics: Advanced Microeconomics for Managers
- Apply microeconomic theory to firm management.
- Statistics: Regression Analysis for Managers
- Gain expertise in regression analysis and experimentation.
- Management Communication: Speaking and Writing
- Enhance communication skills through speaking and writing courses.
Source: Wharton MBA Curriculum
- More than half of the core courses offer flexibility, allowing customization based on individual learning styles and interests.
Options within Flexible Core Areas:
- Operations, Information, and Decisions
- Marketing
- Communication
- Accounting
- Corporate Finance
- Macroeconomics
- Management
- Legal Studies & Business Ethics
Source: Wharton MBA Curriculum
MBA Majors
The Wharton MBA program offers a diverse array of 21 majors, enabling students to tailor their education to specific career goals. Each major typically consists of five CUs, including four CUs beyond the core curriculum.
Some notable majors include:
- Business Analytics (STEM Certified Major): Equips students with tools for solving real-world business problems using data.
- Finance (STEM Certified Major): Develops financial leadership skills for both private and public sectors.
- Artificial Intelligence for Business (STEM Certified Major): Designed to address the technical understanding of AI and how to solve business problems, and how it impacts the firm and society, including economic, social, and ethical issues that AI deployment introduces.
- Health Care Management: Blends specific coursework with professional development opportunities in the healthcare sector.
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation: Prepares students for entrepreneurial careers in various settings.
- Real Estate: Focuses on industry-specific courses and electives, providing tools for leadership in real estate.
- Strategic Management: Deepens understanding of competitive advantage and broader competitive dynamics.
- Social and Governance Factors for Business (STEM Certified Major): Explores relationships between business, society, and environmental, social, and governance factors.
Source: Wharton MBA Majors
Elective Courses
Wharton offers nearly 200 elective courses across 10 academic departments, allowing students to delve deeper into specific areas of interest. Notably, students can select up to four courses from the University of Pennsylvania’s other schools, enhancing the interdisciplinary nature of the Wharton MBA.
Final Checklist Before Submitting Your Wharton Application
- GMAT/GRE score at or above class average
- Resume highlighting leadership and impact
- Essays specifically tailored to Wharton
- Recommenders briefed on Wharton’s values
- Undergraduate transcripts requested
- Interview preparation started
- Optional essay used strategically (if needed)
- Application proofread by 2+ people
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- Financial Times 2025 MBA Rankings: Key Takeaways and Surprising Trends
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Final Thoughts
As we conclude this guide, it is evident that the Wharton MBA Program stands as a dream school for ambitious individuals seeking an unparalleled business education. The Class of 2027’s profile showcases the diversity and excellence that defines the Wharton community. Insights from the employment reports for the Class of 2025 provide a glimpse into the program’s impact on career trajectories.
Prospective applicants can navigate the application process armed with knowledge about deadlines, cost considerations, and available scholarships. The overarching program overview emphasizes Wharton’s commitment to shaping future business leaders. May this guide empower you to embark on a transformative journey at Wharton, where academic excellence meets real-world impact.
FAQs
Q1: What GMAT score do I need for Wharton?
The average GMAT is 735, with 80% of admitted students scoring between 700-770. While scores below 700 can be compensated with exceptional other credentials, aim for 740+ to be competitive.
Q2: Is Wharton better than Harvard for finance?
A:Â Traditionally, Wharton has been considered stronger for pure finance roles, especially investment banking and private equity. Harvard excels in general management and leadership development. Both place exceptionally well in finance.
Q3: Can I get into Wharton with a low GPA?
A:Â Yes, but you need compensating factors: exceptional GMAT (750+), significant career achievements, unique background, or demonstrated quantitative ability through coursework or professional experience.
Q4: What makes Wharton essays unique?
A:Â Wharton specifically asks about contributions to their community. Successful essays demonstrate deep research into specific clubs, professors, or initiatives you’ll engage with.
Q5: How much does work experience matter?
A:Â The average is 5 years, but range is 3-8 years. Quality matters more than quantity. Focus on impact, progression, and leadership rather than just years.
Q6: Does Wharton prefer certain undergraduate majors?
A:Â No. Wharton values diversity of thought. Humanities majors (41% of class) bring different perspectives. What matters is demonstrating analytical ability.
Achieve Your Wharton MBA Dream
Get personalized guidance to craft a standout application, highlight your unique story, and maximize your chances of admission to Wharton.