Introduction

Gaining admission to a top MBA program is a highly competitive endeavour, and Harvard Business School (HBS) stands as the pinnacle of aspiration for many MBA hopefuls. As one of the M7 – the most prestigious group of business schools globally – HBS attracts thousands of applications each year from exceptional candidates worldwide.

The Elite of MBA Programs

The MBA landscape in the USA is dominated by a small group of institutions that consistently produce top-tier business leaders. These schools, often referred to as the M7, include Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, Wharton School, Kellogg School of Management, Columbia Business School, University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and MIT Sloan School of Management. Gaining admission to any of these institutions is a remarkable achievement, but HBS, in particular, holds a special allure.

Harvard Business School: A Global Beacon

Harvard Business School is renowned for its case-based teaching method, extensive alumni network, and unparalleled reputation. The HBS MBA program is designed to develop leaders who make a positive impact on the world. The curriculum is rigorous, emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership development.

The HBS MBA application is notoriously demanding, requiring a holistic evaluation of candidates. The admissions committee seeks individuals with exceptional academic achievements, strong professional experience, demonstrated leadership, and a clear articulation of career goals. Key components of the application include:

  • GMAT or GRE scores
  • Undergraduate transcripts
  • Essays
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Resume
  • Interviews

Given the overwhelming number of qualified applicants, the HBS MBA acceptance rate is incredibly low- 9.2%. While the number of applications dipped from the last year, the class size also got smaller. The HBS acceptance rate is the second lowest among the M7 (Stanford Graduate School of Business has the lowest).

CategoryClass of 2025Class of 2024Class of 2023Class of 2022Class of 2021Class of 2020
Applications814982649773930492289886
Acceptance Rate9.2%*9.5%*9.0%*9.20%12%11%
Enrolled Students9381,0151010732938930
Yield89%*87%*89%*87%*89%90%
Women45%46%46%44%43%41%
International39%38%37%33%37%37%
U.S. Ethnic Minorities45%48%52%45%27%26%
First Gen11%13%13%NANANA
Average Age272727272727
Countries RepresentedNANANA70*7169
Median GMAT Score740730730730730730
GMAT Range500-790540-790590-790620-790590-800610-800
Undergraduate GPA3.733.73.693.73.73.71
Median GRE326326326326326328
STEM Undergrads42%42%43%41%38%37%
Econ/Biz Undergrads43%43%41%41%43%46%
Humanities/Social Science Undergrads16%15%17%18%19%17%

*Table Source: Poets&Quants

Who is the Right Fit for HBS?

HBS seeks candidates who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, a strong sense of community, and a passion for making a difference. The admissions committee looks for individuals with exceptional leadership potential, a proven track record of achievement, and a clear understanding of their career aspirations.

Attending HBS offers numerous advantages. The school’s global reputation opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. The extensive alumni network provides invaluable support and mentorship. Additionally, the HBS case method cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers.

ARINGO: Your Partner in the HBS Journey

Gaining admission to Harvard Business School requires meticulous preparation and expert guidance. ARINGO MBA Admissions Consulting has an amazing track record with successful HBS MBA admits. Our experienced consultants possess an in-depth understanding of the school’s admissions criteria and can provide tailored advice to maximize your chances of success. Contact us today for a free profile evaluation!