The goal of the Smeal MBA admission process is to recruit, admit, and enroll candidates who will succeed academically in the MBA program, excel as leaders, and achieve professional success as Penn State Alumni.

We have identified four major criteria that, when considered together, help us effectively evaluate potential for success. The criteria are discussed in more detail below.

GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) scores, in combination with the undergraduate academic record, are an indicator of your ability to manage the academic rigors of the MBA Program. We look for academic aptitude to manage the level and workload of the program, and for consistency in your academic experience.

The GMAT is required of all Smeal MBA candidates. Official score reports must be sent directly from the testing service. Your GMAT score must be less than five years old at the time of your application. We urge all applicants to take the test no later than February of the year of intended enrollment.
GMAT Code for Penn State Smeal MBA: ZZ8-HD-34

For more information and testing locations, visit www.mba.com or call 1-800-GMAT-NOW (1-800-462-8669) in the U.S. and Canada. Call 1-609-771-7330 outside the U.S.

Official transcripts from all educational institutions attended are required. Transcripts are reviewed for course content, academic performance and any trends in academic progress.

International applicants whose transcripts are not in English should submit both the originals as well as translated transcripts along with an official copy of the bachelor's degree and graduation certificate. Prospective international applicants should contact the Office of Graduate Enrollment Services to determine if their degree is equivalent to a U.S. four-year baccalaureate degree before submitting an application.

Only the equivalent of a 4-year US bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution can be considered for admission into Penn State University.

India:
Applicants who hold a three-year bachelor degree from India are not eligible to apply unless they hold a completed master's degree.

Applicants holding membership in professional associations such as Institutes of Chartered Accountants are not qualified for graduate standing unless they also hold recognized university-level degrees or titles.

Candidates should have full-time professional work experience prior to applying to the Penn State Smeal MBA Program. On average, admitted candidates have 4-5 years of work experience. We evaluate both the quantity and quality of your work experience with particular attention to progress of responsibility, leadership ability, and strong team skills.

Two recommendations from individuals who can accurately speak to your past professional performance are required for the Penn State Smeal MBA admissions application. Recommendations from personal friends, relatives, or family acquaintances are not appropriate. Recommendations should be submitted online.

Your resume will be reviewed for your academic history, professional work experience, related honors and/or achievements, and relevant leadership experiences, associations, and activities. Resumes should be no longer than one page.

Involvement in extracurricular activities is often an indication of leadership skills, teamwork, and professional potential. Your work history will also be evaluated for leadership experience.

Your responses to essay questions will be reviewed to understand your goals and aspirations, and your overall fit with the curriculum and culture of the Penn State Smeal MBA program. These essays help us get to know you in a more personal and meaningful way. Take this opportunity to tell us who you are and share with us your professional aspirations. The more genuine and clear you can be about who you are and where you’d like an MBA to take you, the better we can determine our ability to help you get there.

Admissions interviews are required of all applicants admitted to the Penn State Smeal MBA program. During the interview, we will assess your focus and motivation, maturity, leadership and team skills, and whether we believe the Smeal MBA Program is the best fit for your goals and aspirations.

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is required of all applicants whose native language is not English. Scores must be sent directly to the Smeal College MBA office. (code 2660)

You maybe exempt from the TOEFL if any of the following apply:

1. You received a degree from a U.S. college or university.
2. You received a bachelor's (or equivalent) from an institution in a native English speaking country (e.g. The UK, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Canada).
3. You are a U.S. Permanent Resident.

For more information or to find testing locations, visit: www.toefl.org, or call 1-607-771-7100, or write:
TOEFL/TSE Services-Princeton
P.O. Box 6151
Princeton, NJ 08541-6151
USA

The U.S. Department of State requires that international applicants provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover all expenses for at least one calendar year before a visa will be issued. The amount required varies with the economy, and is approximately US $40,000-45,000. Please submit the Visa Application form with your application to the Penn State MBA program.

While we do request the Application for Visa Document and Financial Certification Form as well as the financial guarantee documents be submitted at the time of the application we also understand that gathering the financial guarantee can be time consuming and it is not always possible for students to do so in advance therefore we are more than willing to work with you if you submit these items after your admission.

For the most current figures, additional information, or special assistance, visit the Penn State Office of International Student Services.
You may also call or write:
International Student Services
The Pennsylvania State University
410 Boucke Building
University Park, PA 16802-5900
email: International@IP.psu.edu
Phone: US 814-865-6348