Harvard Business School has no ideal candidate. Instead, it seeks individuals with a variety of skills and accomplishments. It places a premium on leadership experience, leadership potential and intellectual ability, as evidenced by prior academic performance, GMAT or GRE scores and work experience. It also rewards applicants who demonstrate high ethical standards, respect for others and a willingness to become an engaged member of the Harvard community. Harvard Business School requires interviews, applications and reference letters. The class of 2011 had an average GPA of 3.67 and GMAT scores ranged from 490 to 800. The bulk of applicants came from the consulting, investment banking and venture capital/private equity industries prior to entering grad school.
Harvard Business School seeks diverse candidates for its Executive Education Program. There are no formal education requirements. Instead, the program focuses on professional achievement and organizational responsibility. Executive Education encompasses numerous programs, each with its own admission requirements. Programs include Owner/President Management Program, Changing the Game - Europe and Leading Professional Service Firms. Several programs require statements from an applicant's sponsoring executive.
Harvard Business School admits doctoral candidates who have an intense desire to learn and teach, are committed to all aspects of academia and are independent-minded and ready for a challenge. A doctoral applicant must complete an application and provide a current resume, statement of purpose, transcripts of all college and university courses, GMAT or GRE scores and three letters of recommendation.