Walton MBA staff answer common EMBA admission questions to make the application process more transparent and easier to understand.
The Walton MBA Programs Office staff is processing applications for the Executive MBA (EMBA) class starting in Fall 2021.
While completing their application and waiting for an admission decision, applicants ask questions that may be helpful for other applicants or anyone considering applying for the EMBA program.
Q: Why should I apply for the Walton EMBA program? Is now is a good time to apply?
A: Assistant EMBA Director Aditi Kar encourages students to apply for the Walton EMBA program “so that they can stay competitive in the business world with our innovative and modern business curriculum.” She highlighted the chances for networking with faculty and other students, which can lead to promising opportunities in the future. “The entire EMBA experience helps students to sharpen their creative thinking and inspire creative endeavors in their professional life,” Kar says.
Q: Where can I find the application?
A: Applicants can find the application on the EMBA website.
Q: What materials are needed for the application?
A: Applicants will need to upload a resume and statement of purpose. The statement of purpose is two pages, double-spaced and is an opportunity to let the admissions committee know the applicants’ reasons for applying, future career goals and strengths they will bring to the program. Applicants also need to submit transcripts for any university they have attended and input their recommenders’ contact information for three letters of recommendation. There is a $60 application fee that can be paid online.
Q: Is the GMAT or GRE required?
A: The GMAT and GRE are optional for Fall 2021 admission. If applicants have taken one of these exams, they can submit those scores. If they have not, they will first be evaluated to see if they qualify for a test score waiver. This waiver is usually given to applicants who have over five years applicable work experience in a leadership or managerial role. If applicants do not receive a test score waiver, they will be required to complete a 30-minute Zoom interview with faculty, staff or alumni. A scoring rubric from this interview will be included with their application package that is reviewed by the admissions committee.
Q: Is there a minimum GPA requirement?
A: There are no minimum GPA requirements since an applicant’s work experience or other strength may outweigh a weak portion of their application. The application review is a holistic process, so each part of the application is reviewed before a decision is made.
Q: How soon before an admission decision is made on my application?
A: Typically, once their application is with the admissions committee, it takes two weeks before a decision is made. Once a decision is made, applicants will receive a phone call from a staff member letting them know what the decision is. Since the application process can be confusing, the Walton MBA staff is available to help answer any questions and guide applicants through the entire process.
For questions concerning the EMBA application and admissions, please reach out to Associate Director of MBA Recruitment Julie Storing at jstoring@walton.uark.edu.
