UCLA MBA
- Jul 10
- 18 min read
The UCLA Anderson School of Management offers a transformative MBA experience, tailored to your aspirations. With a dynamic curriculum, world-renowned faculty, and a vast alumni network, here's what makes UCLA MBA stand out.
UCLA Anderson MBA 2026-2027: Complete Application Guide, Deadlines, Essay Prompts, and Class Profile
UCLA Anderson's MBA program remains one of the most sought-after destinations for candidates targeting the West Coast tech and innovation ecosystem, while also drawing strong interest from finance, consulting, and impact-focused applicants. For the Class of 2028 admissions cycle, Anderson has released its full set of requirements, deadlines, essay prompts, and class profile data. This guide breaks down everything applicants need to build a competitive, differentiated candidacy.
UCLA MBA Round-by-Round Deadlines: Class of 2028
Anderson operates a three-round admissions cycle. Applications for the Class of 2028 opened on August 1, 2025, with an application fee of $200.
Round | Application Deadline | Decision Release |
Round 1 | October 1, 2026 | December 11, 2026 |
Round 2 | January 6, 2027 | March 26, 2027 |
Round 3 | April 7, 2027 | May 14, 2027 |
Strategic take: Round 1 and Round 2 carry the bulk of available seats and should be treated as the primary windows for most applicants. Round 3 tends to fill remaining spots in the class and often favors candidates with a distinctive fit narrative or specific circumstances that support a later timeline. Candidates deciding between rounds should weigh readiness of their narrative and recommender availability against the marginal advantage of applying earlier.
UCLA MBA Academic Requirements
Anderson requires a completed four-year undergraduate degree, or its equivalent, for enrollment. International applicants holding a three-year undergraduate degree may still be considered if the Admissions Committee determines the overall academic and professional profile is strong enough to compensate.
Key academic evaluation principles:
Grades on non-4.0 scales should not be converted before reporting; Anderson evaluates transcripts within their own educational context.
All majors are welcome, and there is no preferred undergraduate background.
Quantitative performance receives specific scrutiny: math-adjacent coursework, grades, and quant test scores are all weighted carefully.
Upward grade trends are viewed favorably, particularly improvement as a student adjusts into their major.
Candidates looking to strengthen a weaker academic record can complete supplementary coursework (calculus, statistics, accounting, or finance) and submit updated transcripts with the application.
Professional certifications such as CFA, CPA, or Chartered Accountant credentials can meaningfully add to a profile and have a dedicated section in the application.
UCLA MBA GMAT/GRE/EA: The Test-Optional Decision Point
Anderson does not require a standardized test score, but this should not be read as a blanket recommendation to skip testing. The decision is candidate-specific and carries real strategic weight.
Accepted tests: GMAT, GMAT Focus Edition, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA). Anderson evaluates the highest total score submitted along with its corresponding sub-scores; superscoring across attempts is not permitted, and expired scores are not accepted for submission (though an expired score can still support a test-optional case, discussed below).
If choosing to go test-optional, applicants must submit an essay demonstrating readiness for the program's analytical rigor. The Admissions Committee weighs the following in place of a test score:
Undergraduate or graduate academic performance, particularly in quantitative coursework
Post-undergraduate work experience in an analytical or quantitative function
Professional certifications (CPA, CFA, or international equivalents)
Performance on an expired GMAT or GRE, where available
Advisory note: Candidates with visible quantitative signal, an engineering background, a CFA charter, or a finance-heavy role, have a genuine case for going test-optional without added risk. Candidates without any of these markers should treat the test-optional route with caution; the burden of proof shifts entirely onto a single essay, which is a heavier lift than it may first appear. This decision deserves deliberate strategic assessment early in the application timeline rather than a default choice made for convenience.
Official score submission: GMAT scores are sent electronically via Pearson VUE to school code 2NZ-2F-24. GRE scores are sent via ETS to school code 0771. Official scores are required for admission but not for the application itself.
UCLA MBA Letters of Recommendation
New applicants must submit two recommendations; reapplicants need only submit one new recommendation, which can come from the same recommender used previously.
Recommenders should be individuals well positioned to evaluate the candidate's professional performance, most commonly a direct supervisor or manager. Peers, family members, and professors are generally discouraged as recommenders.
The recommendation form asks three core questions:
Nature of the working relationship and the applicant's role in the organization
How the applicant's performance compares to well-qualified peers in similar roles, including principal strengths
The most significant piece of constructive feedback given to the applicant, and how they responded
Advisory note for candidates: The constructive feedback question is where recommenders most often default to generic language. A short briefing conversation with your recommender, focused specifically on recalling one concrete, well-documented feedback moment and the candidate's growth response, meaningfully strengthens this section of the letter.
Recommenders need a valid email address, as forms are submitted electronically only. Access codes remain valid for 180 days from the point of entry, so recommenders should be approached well ahead of the deadline.
UCLA MBA Essay Prompts for 2026-2027
Anderson requires three short essays from first-time applicants, alongside one optional essay.
Essay 1 (250 words): Short- and long-term post-MBA goals, including desired role, industry, and target companies, along with how an MBA and specific Anderson resources support that path.
Essay 2 (200 words): How classmates will describe the candidate by graduation, the qualities or values they want to be known for, and how they plan to demonstrate them as a student leader and community member.
Essay 3 (50 words): The first thing a candidate would tell classmates about themselves upon arrival at Anderson.
Optional Essay (250 words maximum): Space for extenuating circumstances or additional context. No preference is given for answering this optional prompt.
Advisory note: This is a compressed, identity-and-values-forward essay set rather than a traditional career-narrative format. Essay 3, at only 50 words, rewards a genuinely distinctive personal hook over a resume recap, candidates should resist the instinct to summarize credentials and instead identify the one detail that makes them memorable in a room. Essay 2 is frequently misread as another "leadership experience" prompt; it is actually asking for a values statement grounded in community behavior, a subtly different task that surfaces a common blind spot among applicants who default to professional achievements.
UCLA MBA Reapplicant Process
Candidates who submitted a completed application in the previous two admissions cycles and received a final decision are considered reapplicants. The process is streamlined:
Indicate reapplicant status on the Program page of the new application
Answer the required Short Essay Prompts (Optional Essay recommended but not mandatory)
Submit one new recommendation
Provide updates on test scores, career progress, academics, and activities since the previous application
Reapplicants are evaluated by the same standards as first-time applicants, so there is no inherent disadvantage to reapplying. The Admissions Committee may reference the previous application for context, and previously reported standardized test scores remain on file, subject to standard expiration timelines. Submitting a new, improved test score is possible and strengthens competitiveness where relevant.
UCLA MBA Class of 2027 Profile: Key Benchmarks
Metric | Data |
Applications Received | 3,064 |
Class Size | 307 |
Mean GPA | 3.5 |
Middle 80% GPA Range | 3.1 – 3.8 |
Mean GMAT (10th Edition) | 703 |
Middle 80% GMAT Range | 670 – 750 |
GRE Average Combined | 325 |
GRE Verbal Average | 162 (range 157-166) |
GRE Quant Average | 163 (range 156-169) |
Average Work Experience | 5.6 years |
Work experience distribution: 17% with 0-3 years, 57% with 3-6 years, 26% with 6+ years.
Pre-MBA industry background: Technology (20%), Finance (19%), Consulting (9%), Other/Energy/Law/Hospitality (10%), Government/Education/Impact/Public Sector (9%), Healthcare (8%), Media/Entertainment (8%), Marketing/CPG (7%), Manufacturing (4%), Retail (3%), Real Estate (3%).
Undergraduate majors: Business (30%), Engineering (22%), Humanities/Social Sciences (21%), Economics (13%), Other (8%), Biological/Physical Sciences (6%).
Advisory note: The class profile shows meaningful representation across quantitative and non-quantitative undergraduate backgrounds, which supports Anderson's stated openness to varied academic paths. Candidates from humanities or social science backgrounds should not read the technology and finance industry skew as a signal against fit, but should ensure their application actively addresses quantitative readiness, whether through coursework, test scores, or the test-optional essay.
Closing Synthesis
UCLA Anderson's 2026-2027 cycle rewards candidates who can move beyond credentials into a clear, values-anchored sense of identity and community contribution, a theme that runs through the essay set, the recommendation questions, and the program's broader positioning. The test-optional pathway offers real flexibility but demands honest self-assessment of quantitative readiness before it is used. Candidates who treat each application component, essays, recommender briefing, and testing strategy, as part of one coherent narrative will be best positioned across all three rounds.
UCLA MBA Application Process
Getting into UCLA MBA is a well-structured process:
Start with an online application tailored for the Fall 2024 intake, commencing on August 1, 2023.
Ensure you have a four-year Bachelor's degree, domestically or internationally earned.
GMAT or GRE scores are typically required, but they are optional.
Provide two strong recommendations.
UCLA gives you the flexibility to apply with or without test scores.
If you opt not to submit test scores, prepare a compelling essay showcasing your readiness for the program.
Reapplicants should offer a new recommendation addressing updates.
In the MBA essays highlight your ability to accomplish significant goals in 250 words.
You can also choose to address additional information in an optional essay.
Interviews offer a valuable opportunity to showcase your readiness.
Unsure how to craft a winning UCLA MBA application? Talk to GOALisB’s experts and let them guide you through every step — from essay writing to interview prep
UCLA MBA Class Profile:
The Class of 2025 reflects UCLA's commitment to diversity and excellence:
Students from 41 different countries, with 28% being minorities and 37% women.
The class represents 197 undergraduate institutions.
Top industry backgrounds include High Tech, Finance, Consulting, and Health/Biotech.
Academic metrics are impressive, with a middle-80% GPA range of 3.1 to 3.8 and an average GMAT score of 710.
Wondering how your profile stacks up against UCLA Anderson’s Class of 2025? Schedule a call and get a professional profile evaluation from GOALisB and discover how to strengthen your candidacy.
UCLA MBA Employment Report 2022
The numbers speak for themselves:
Average salary increase from pre-MBA to post-MBA: 85%
86% of students switch their career industry and/or function.
Key sectors for employment: Technology, Finance, Consulting, and more.
Top companies hiring from UCLA, including Amazon, Apple, and McKinsey & Company.
Planning your post-MBA career in consulting, tech, or finance? Schedule a free consultation with GOALisB to help you align your career goals and application strategy with UCLA Anderson’s placement strengths.
Financial Aid At UCLA:
UCLA Anderson believes in supporting its students:
Fellowships awarded annually total $17.8 million.
Teaching and Assistantships are available.
Pursuing your MBA at UCLA Anderson is not just an educational journey; it's an opportunity to become part of a diverse and globally connected community. With flexible application options, a strong alumni network, and an impressive track record of career success, UCLA's MBA program can be your gateway to a promising future. Mark those deadlines and embark on your path to excellence with UCLA.
Need help identifying scholarships or building a strong financial aid application? Reach out to GOALisB’s consultants to guide you through funding options and essay strategies for top MBAs like UCLA.
UCLA MBA Essays:
Well-structured MBA essays will not only describe the impact of your accomplishment but also elaborate on its direct association with your short-term and long-term MBA objectives. We eagerly anticipate understanding how your achievement has paved the way for your future triumphs.
MBA Essay Sample:
A personal or professional milestone that I hold in high regard is my successful attainment of a project management certification. This certification demanded an extensive academic commitment and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.
The motivation behind pursuing this certification lay in my belief that strong project management competencies are fundamental in the corporate arena. I have always been intrigued by the strategic planning and execution of intricate projects, and I believe this certification will equip me with the expertise to excel in this domain.
Furthermore, this accomplishment intertwines with my MBA goals in several significant ways. Firstly, achieving this certification underscores my dedication to continual self-improvement and personal and professional growth, a core value that I consider indispensable in the business sphere.
Secondly, the certification also serves as a testament to my capability to set and attain challenging objectives. The pursuit and attainment of this certification necessitated discipline, unwavering focus, and unflagging determination—qualities that I deem vital for success within an MBA program.
Lastly, this achievement underscores my capacity for hard work and persistence when confronted with challenges. The program's rigorous demands entailed extensive hours of study and preparation, lessons that underscore the importance of diligence and unwavering resolve, qualities that I believe will serve me well in my MBA journey.
Overall, my recent accomplishment in securing the project management certification signifies a pivotal milestone in my personal and professional development. Its close alignment with my MBA aspirations highlights its significance, and I eagerly anticipate the doors it will open for me in the future.
MBA Essay Sample:
A recent personal achievement that fills me with pride is the completion of a marathon. Despite being passionate about fitness, the distance and required training for a marathon were initially daunting. Overcoming these fears, I enrolled in a marathon training program.
Over several months, I committed myself to rigorous training and preparation. I encountered various obstacles, including injuries and setbacks, but I remained undeterred and focused on my goal.
On race day, I successfully completed the marathon, achieving something I once deemed beyond my capabilities. This achievement signifies significant personal growth, underscoring the values of perseverance, hard work, and determination.
This accomplishment directly correlates with my MBA aspirations in multiple facets. Firstly, it showcases my ability to establish and achieve long-term goals, a fundamental skill for success in the business realm. It also demonstrates my unwavering commitment, tenacity, and aptitude for surmounting obstacles, traits that I consider indispensable in any field.
Lastly, this experience accentuates the significance of self-improvement and personal growth, values that I intend to carry forward into my MBA journey and future career. I am confident that this achievement will position me for excellence in the MBA program and the realization of my long-term career objectives.
Read our guide on MBA Essay Tips for MBA essay guidance and srategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an MBA at UCLA worth it?
Yes, an MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management is widely considered worth it, especially for careers in consulting, finance, and technology, offering strong ROI with an average post-MBA salary of $146,526.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management is a top 15 globally ranked MBA program, known for its strong West Coast network, exceptional placement in consulting and tech, and high salary outcomes relative to tuition.
Why a UCLA MBA is worth it:
Strong ROI (Return on Investment):
Average Base Salary (Class of 2024)- $146,526
Average Signing Bonus- $33,698
Graduates frequently work for top firms like Amazon, Deloitte, BCG, and Google.
Career Mobility & Location Advantage:
Located in Los Angeles, UCLA has unmatched access to tech, entertainment, and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Strong pipelines to Silicon Valley, Seattle, and global consulting firms.
Prestige & Rankings:
Consistently ranked among the top 10–15 U.S. business schools by U.S. News and Financial Times.
Recognized for excellence in entrepreneurship, marketing, and strategy.
Collaborative Culture:
UCLA Anderson’s motto, “Think in the Next,” reflects a focus on innovation and teamwork.
Students benefit from a diverse, inclusive, and professionally driven community.
Cost & ROI Balance:
Tuition is around $79,452 per year, lower than many peer private schools.
The combination of strong career outcomes and reasonable tuition leads to one of the best value MBAs in the U.S.
Finally, yes, the UCLA MBA is a top choice for those seeking high ROI, strong career outcomes, and access to tech and consulting on the U.S. West Coast.
Does UCLA MBA require GMAT?
No, the UCLA Anderson MBA does not strictly require the GMAT—applicants may submit GMAT or GRE scores, and test waivers are available for qualified candidates with strong academic or professional backgrounds.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management has adopted a flexible testing policy for its full-time MBA admissions. While standardized test scores remain an important indicator of readiness, UCLA Anderson evaluates candidates holistically and offers waivers in select cases.
Testing Policy Overview:
Accepted Tests: GMAT or GRE (no preference).
Test Waivers: Available for applicants who can demonstrate strong quantitative and analytical skills through:
Advanced degrees (e.g., MS, PhD, MD).
Quant-heavy undergraduate coursework.
Extensive professional or analytical work experience.
TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international applicants whose undergraduate instruction was not in English.
UCLA’s Admissions Approach: Even with test flexibility, the average GMAT score for admitted students remains high (around 703), reflecting the program’s competitive standards. However, strong performance in academics, leadership, and work experience can offset a missing or lower test score.
Thus, the GMAT is optional but recommended for UCLA MBA applicants who do not qualify for a waiver, as it can strengthen your application for scholarships and competitive admissions.
Gain valuable context for your test prep with the Global GMAT Trends 2005–2024 analysis
How much does the UCLA MBA cost?
The UCLA Anderson full-time MBA costs $79,452 per year in tuition, with a total cost of attendance $131,669 per year.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management is a top-tier public business school, but as a University of California program, it offers slightly lower tuition than comparable private MBAs, especially for California residents.
UCLA MBA Cost Breakdown (2024–2025 Academic Year):
Particulars | Cost |
Tuition | $79,452 |
Mandatory UCLA Fees | $1,950 |
Health Insurance | $7,938 |
Total Mandatory Charges | $89,340 |
Food/Housing | $31,962 |
Books/Course Materials/Supplies | $2,544 |
Transportation | $4,246 |
Personal | $3,577 |
Total Estimated Student Budget | $131,669 |
Financial Aid & Scholarships:
UCLA Anderson provides merit-based fellowships, need-based aid, and graduate assistantships.
Around 50% of full-time MBA students receive some form of scholarship funding.
Value & ROI: Given its lower tuition relative to other top-15 MBA programs and an average post-MBA salary of $146,526, UCLA Anderson delivers one of the best ROI profiles among elite business schools.
Understand how the business education landscape is evolving in our US MBA market analysis:
Does UCLA offer an MBA?
Yes, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers a prestigious MBA program through its Anderson School of Management, available in full-time, part-time, executive, and global formats.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management is one of the top business schools in the U.S., offering multiple MBA programs designed for different career stages and learning preferences. Each program emphasizes leadership, innovation, and analytical decision-making.
UCLA MBA Program Options:
Full-Time MBA (2 years) – For early- to mid-career professionals seeking career change or advancement.
Fully Employed MBA (FEMBA, part-time) – A flexible program for working professionals, with evening and weekend options.
Executive MBA (EMBA) – Tailored for senior professionals with 10+ years of experience.
Global Executive MBA for Asia Pacific (GEMBA) – A joint program with the National University of Singapore (NUS) for international business leaders.
For a deeper understanding of how to assess EMBA programs, explore critical frameworks for Executive MBA evaluation:
Program Highlights:
MBA Rankings: Consistently in the top 10–15 U.S. MBA programs (U.S. News, Financial Times).
Specializations: Entrepreneurship, technology management, finance, marketing, and strategy.
Career Outcomes: Graduates average $160,000+ in post-MBA salary, with top placements in consulting, tech, and finance.
UCLA Anderson’s MBA stands out for its West Coast location, strong alumni network, and focus on innovation and leadership.
Is UCLA MBA hard to get into?
Yes, the UCLA Anderson MBA is competitive, with an acceptance rate of 10% and an average GMAT score near 703, making it one of the more selective U.S. business schools.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management attracts high-achieving professionals from across the world, resulting in a selective MBA admissions process similar to other top MBA programs like Georgetown McDonough MBA, Carnegie Mellon MBA and Olin MBA Program.
Admissions Competitiveness Overview:
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 10%
Average GMAT: 703 (middle 80% range: 670–750)
Average GPA: 3.5
Average Work Experience: 5.6 years
Class Size: 307 students
Read more on how to approach your MBA goals in our guide — How Do You Visualize MBA Class of 2025?
What UCLA Anderson Looks For:
Academic excellence: Strong undergraduate performance and quantitative ability.
Professional impact: Clear career progression and leadership potential.
Personal qualities: Collaboration, adaptability, and alignment with Anderson’s values (“Think in the Next”).
Career clarity: A well-defined career plan and demonstrated fit with UCLA’s strengths in tech, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
How to Improve Chances: Applicants with compelling personal stories, strong leadership examples, and demonstrated fit with Anderson’s innovative and collaborative culture often stand out—even if their test scores are slightly below average.
Also, check out our complete guide on MBA Application Process for a comprehensive application guidance and strategy.
Does Goldman Sachs hire from UCLA?
Yes, Goldman Sachs regularly hires MBA graduates from UCLA Anderson, primarily for roles in investment banking, asset management, and corporate strategy.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management is a well-established target school for top finance and consulting firms, including Goldman Sachs. Each year, several Anderson MBAs receive offers for both summer internships and full-time positions at Goldman’s offices in New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
Goldman Sachs recruitment at UCLA Anderson:
Recruitment Channels: On-campus presentations, coffee chats, alumni networking, and Anderson’s Investment Finance Association (IFA).
Common Roles:
Investment Banking Associate
Private Wealth Management Associate
Asset & Portfolio Management Analyst
Corporate Strategy / Internal Finance roles
Location Focus: Goldman typically recruits UCLA MBAs for West Coast offices (Los Angeles, San Francisco) and occasionally for New York headquarters roles.
Career Placement Data (Class of 2024):
17.7% of Anderson MBAs enter finance, with top employers including Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Citi, and J.P. Morgan.
Median base salary for investment banking roles: $170,210.
Why Goldman Hires from UCLA:
Strong analytical training and finance curriculum.
A large alumni base in Wall Street and West Coast finance.
Students’ proven ability to combine technical skill with communication and leadership.
Get insights into the top US programs known for academic excellence and career outcomes:
What companies recruit from UCLA MBA?
Top employers that recruit from the UCLA Anderson MBA include Amazon, Google, Deloitte, McKinsey, BCG, Goldman Sachs, and Microsoft, spanning industries such as consulting, technology, and finance.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management maintains strong corporate connections, particularly with West Coast and global firms in tech, consulting, and finance. Its strategic Los Angeles location and powerful alumni network make it a key recruiting hub for leading organizations.
Top Companies Recruiting UCLA Anderson MBAs (Class of 2024):
Consulting Firms:
McKinsey & Company
Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
Bain & Company
Deloitte Consulting
PwC Strategy&
EY-Parthenon
Technology Companies:
Amazon
Google
Microsoft
Apple
Meta (Facebook)
Adobe
Netflix
Salesforce
Finance & Investment Firms:
Goldman Sachs
J.P. Morgan
Citi
Morgan Stanley
Wells Fargo
BlackRock
Barclays
Entertainment, Media, and Other Industries:
Disney
Warner Bros. Discovery
NBCUniversal
Nike
Procter & Gamble (P&G)
Tesla
Career Outcomes Snapshot (Class of 2024):
Consulting: 24.9% of graduates
Technology: 23.4%
Finance: 17.7%
Entertainment/Media: 8.6%
Median Base Salary: 146,526
Why Employers Hire from UCLA Anderson:
Strong analytical and leadership training.
A diverse, collaborative student body.
Deep alumni tie across Silicon Valley, Wall Street, and Hollywood.
For career opportunities overview, read MBA Jobs Complete Guide.
Does UCLA prefer GMAT or GRE?
No, the UCLA Anderson MBA does not prefer the GMAT over the GRE—both tests are equally accepted, and applicants should choose the one that best highlights their strengths.
The UCLA Anderson School of Management maintains a test-neutral policy, giving equal consideration to both GMAT and GRE scores. The admissions team evaluates each applicant holistically, focusing on how test results complement other elements of the profile such as academics, work experience, and leadership potential.
Want to know what the GMAT really tests? Dive into the GMAT Syllabus Breakdown.
Key Points About UCLA’s Test Policy:
Accepted Exams: GMAT or GRE (no preference stated).
Average GMAT (Class of 2025): ~703
Typical GRE Range: 157-166 (Verbal) / 156-169 (Quant)
Test Waivers: Available for candidates with strong quantitative or professional experience (e.g., finance, engineering, or advanced degrees).
How to Decide Which Test to Take:
Choose GMAT if you excel in quantitative reasoning and plan to target consulting or finance roles (industries that often value GMAT results).
Choose GRE if your strengths lie in verbal reasoning or you’re applying to multiple types of graduate programs.
Admissions Tip: While UCLA Anderson is test-flexible, submitting a strong GMAT or GRE score—especially above average—can strengthen your competitiveness for scholarships and elite consulting/finance tracks.
Explore our essential resources for understanding the GMAT exam structure and requirements to prepare effectively:
Can I get into Stanford MBA without GMAT?
Yes, it’s possible but uncommon to get into the Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) without the GMAT—Stanford accepts the GRE as an alternative, but does not typically waive standardized test requirements.
The Stanford GSB MBA program is one of the most competitive in the world, and standardized test scores (GMAT or GRE) are an integral part of its holistic admissions process. While the school values leadership, impact, and intellectual vitality above all, test scores help demonstrate academic readiness.
Stanford MBA Test Policy (2025 Admissions):
Accepted Exams: GMAT or GRE (no preference).
Average GMAT: 738 (Class of 2025).
Average GRE: Verbal 163 / Quant 164.
Test Waivers:
Stanford does not offer GRE/GMAT waivers for the full-time MBA program.
The only exceptions are rare cases such as deferred programs with extraordinary academic credentials or verified technical hardships.
If You Can’t Submit a GMAT:
You may apply with a GRE score instead.
Without any test score, your application will be incomplete unless Stanford explicitly allows an exception (which is extremely rare).
Admissions Strategy Tip: A strong GMAT or GRE score remains a key differentiator for Stanford MBA admissions, given its 5.8% acceptance rate. However, exceptional achievements in leadership, innovation, and impact can help balance a modest score.
Unsure which test to take? Explore our detailed GMAT vs. GRE Comparison to make the right choice.
Is UCLA better than USC?
Yes, UCLA is generally considered better than USC, especially for its MBA and overall academic reputation, higher average salaries and stronger recruiting.
Both UCLA (Anderson School of Management) and USC (Marshall School of Business) are prestigious West Coast universities, but UCLA consistently ranks higher in academics, selectivity, and post-MBA outcomes.
UCLA vs USC MBA Comparison (2025 Data)
Feature | UCLA Anderson | USC Marshall |
Average GMAT | 703 | 722 |
Acceptance Rate | 10% | 6.5% |
Average Base Salary | $146,526 | $144,442 |
Employment Rate (3 months post-grad) | 77.7% | 80% |
STEM Designation | Yes | Yes |
Class Size | 307 | 210 |
Career Placement
UCLA Anderson: Stronger in consulting, finance, and tech, with top recruiters like McKinsey, BCG, Google, and Amazon.
USC Marshall: Excels in entertainment, media, and family business, with deep ties to Los Angeles industries.
Brand & Alumni Network
UCLA: Globally recognized, part of the University of California system.
USC: Has a highly engaged alumni network, especially across Southern California.
Thus, both are excellent. UCLA Anderson offers stronger rankings, ROI, and global visibility, making it the better choice for careers in consulting, finance, and technology. USC Marshall is ideal for those targeting entertainment or entrepreneurial careers in Los Angeles.
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