Apply as an International Applicant (2024)

Chicago Booth welcomes MBA applicants from around the globe.

In our collaborative community, you’ll study with other students from dozens of countries and connect with alumni worldwide. You’ll graduate not only with a world-class Booth MBA but with a lifelong global network.

As an international student, you’ll follow the same application process as US-based students, with a few additional things to note.

When to Apply

We recommend that international students apply in earlier rounds; however, there is sufficient time for students to apply for and secure a visa in all rounds.

Academic Requirements

International applicants must have a college or university degree equivalent to a four-year American baccalaureate degree. In light of the Bologna Accord, Chicago Booth also accepts candidates with three-year international degrees. To document your degree, you will need to submit official academic records or a scanned transcript.

English Language Exams

If English is not your native language, you’ll need to submit proof of English proficiency by taking one of the following exams:

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
The academic version of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Duolingo English Test

Sending Your Test Scores

Please send your TOEFL scores to Booth using our test code, 1832-02.

Scores are valid for two years, after which they are considered expired. If your score has expired, you must retake the examination and submit the official scores before the application deadline.We will allow applicants to submit interim at-home or online proctored test scores as these organizations make them available. We trust the integrity of these testing organizations and should you opt to participate in the at-home testing option, your scores will be reviewed in the same manner as those taken in a traditional testing center, and will continue to be valid for two years.

Minimum Test Scores

TOEFL
Paper Test	600
Internet-based test (iBT)	104
IELTS
Minimum score	7
PTE Academic
Minimum score	70
Duolingo
Minimum score	135

Applicants who score below the minimum may still apply, but admission is contingent upon demonstrated English proficiency during the admissions interview if the candidate is invited to interview, or upon other language requirements.

Global Community

Learn about our diverse and global community, and see how you can connect with an international Full-Time MBA student or graduate from your home country.

Global Community

STEM Eligibility

The Chicago Booth MBA degree is designated STEM-eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) purposes. International graduates on F-1 student visas who earn a Chicago Booth MBA may be eligible to apply for an additional 24 months of training through work experience.

Financing Your MBA

Chicago Booth provides financing opportunities for all students, regardless of their citizenship or whether or not they have a US cosigner. Additional information about loans will be available for admitted students on our admitted students website.

International students may also qualify for scholarships and fellowships.

Student Visas

International students who have accepted an offer of admission are eligible to apply for an F-1 visa or a J-1 visa. To meet the eligibility requirements for either of these student visas, international students must demonstrate the following:

Detailed information regarding the requirements and application process to obtain a student visa is sent to admitted students in the spring.

Proof of equivalent academic documents (diplomas)
Results from the TOEFL/IELTS/PTE examination (please review the English Language Exam Requirements on this page for waiver eligibility)
Financial resources to pursue their course of study