EMBA application requirements

You must choose your program of interest and apply to either the Executive MBA Americas program, the Executive MBA NYC program, or the Executive MBA/MS in Healthcare Leadership program. Each program is distinct, offering a unique student experience and academic environment.

Admission requirements and prerequisites

Demonstrated progressive work experience

On average, our enrolled students have 12 years of full-time, progressive work experience. We typically require a minimum of seven years of experience. Candidates with fewer years of work experience may be considered; however, be prepared to demonstrate career progression. We consider many factors when evaluating your work experience, such as post-residency experience for physicians.

An accredited undergraduate degree

An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution is required for admission to all three Executive MBA programs. While you are not required to hold a graduate degree for admission, many of our EMBA students have master’s degrees in varying fields. Take time to research each program thoroughly and review the selection criteria below.

Selection criteria

Our EMBA admissions committees seek to enroll diverse classes. We recognize that people with different educational backgrounds, functional expertise and industry knowledge can learn from each other. Therefore, we consider every application individually.

Cornell’s Executive MBA programs are designed for ambitious professionals with considerable experience. Our EMBA programs are rigorous and fast-paced, and we want to ensure that you can balance work, life and academics.

Organizational excellence

When considering your professional experience, we are specifically looking at career progression, current responsibilities, career goals and potential for advancement. If you’re applying to the Executive MBA/MS in Healthcare Leadership program, we must see career and leadership progression within healthcare-related fields.

Academic readiness

Cornell’s Executive MBA programs are academically challenging and feature a strong quantitative emphasis. We closely review your prior academic performance to assess your ability to succeed in this environment. On occasion, we may require prerequisite coursework or GMAT scores.

Class and team contributions

Collaboration is a key to success in our Executive MBA programs. Through classroom discussions and team assignments, you will learn with and from your classmates. Through your admissions essays and interview, we’ll have the opportunity to get to know you and how you will contribute in this environment.

Motivation and commitment

You should expect to dedicate at least 15 to 20 hours a week to your Executive MBA program. Sustaining this level of intensity requires you — and those around you — to be motivated and committed to your success. We look forward to learning more about your plan to make the program fit into your life.

Application checklist

Refer to this list as you prepare to apply to one of Cornell’s Executive MBA programs. Detailed information, additional work experience, and academic requirements are listed below.

Admissions process demystified

As full-time workers, your time is valuable. Review our collection of admissions-related FAQs to help you overcome potential blockers.

Your next steps

If you’re getting ready to apply or want more information, you can:

Explore our EMBA programs

We recommend you thoroughly review and research each of our Executive MBA programs to determine which is the best fit for you.