To apply to Thunderbird's Master of Arts program, simply follow the instructions below. If you encounter difficulties or would like additional assistance, contact our Admissions team at admissions@thunderbird.edu


How to apply


Index of Contents:

1. Complete the Application Form
2. Undergraduate Transcript
3. References (2)
4. Test Scores - GMAT or GRE
5. TOEFL or IELTS (if applicable)
6. Personal Essays (2)
7. Submit Your Completed Application
8. Application Fee Payment
9. Deadlines
10. Review

1. Complete the Application Form

You may apply now using the Embark application service.

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2. Undergraduate Transcript

Your transcripts should show that a degree was awarded to you after completing four (or more) years of university study. If your degree was completed in fewer than four years of undergraduate study, clarify your situation with the Admissions Office before applying.

  • A transcript from every college or university you attended must be sent directly to Thunderbird.
  • Each transcript must list the courses you took, grades received and, if applicable, the date and title of the degree you received.
  • Each transcript must carry the official seal or imprint of the institution.
  • Applicants with education credentials from outside the U.S. must submit all documents in both the original language and a certified English translation.

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3. References (2) sent to Thunderbird through the "Personal Potential Index"

  • Each reference must be sent to Thunderbird through the "Personal Potential Index," directly from the person who recommends you to Thunderbird.
  • References must be from a current or previous supervisor, professor, internship supervisor or professional colleague and accurately comment on your management and leadership ability.
  • References aren't considered part of a matriculated student's permanent record and are not accessible or subject to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974.

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4. Test Scores - GMAT or GRE

These are mandatory — and used to assess your qualifications for advanced study in management.

  • All sections of the tests verbal, quantitative, analytical and writing must be completed and documented on the score report for the test to be valid.
  • GMAT and GRE scores are valid for five years and must be sent directly to Thunderbird by the appropriate testing service.
  • To improve your GMAT or GRE score, you can take study/preparatory classes at Thunderbird or another provider.

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5. TOEFL or IELTS (if applicable)

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6. Personal Essays (2)

You are required to write two personal essays. Your admissions packet provides questions you should answer and explains how to present information about yourself. Each essay should be 500 to 1,500 words (1-3 pages). Topics are found on the application.

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7. Submit Your Completed Application

Direct any questions you have to the Thunderbird Office of Admissions, admissions@thunderbird.edu.

Admissions Office
Thunderbird School of Global Management
1 Global Place
Glendale, AZ 85306-6000 U.S.A.

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8. Application Fee Payment

Your non-refundable USD $125.00 application fee may be paid by check or credit card (in the U.S.) payable to Thunderbird School of Global Management.

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9. Deadlines

Deadlines for admissions can be found on the application.

Applications must be submitted within the review period for each trimester. Applications after the review period will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Once your completed application is received, it is presented to the Executive Admissions Committee. Decisions take four to six weeks and official decisions are mailed to you.

If you receive a letter of acceptance, you must submit your USD $625.00 tuition deposit immediately to reserve your space. Admission is granted for the designated term only. Admission deferrals are discouraged. A non-refundable deposit is required on the rare chance that a deferral is granted.

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10. Review

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Non-U.S. citizens must complete the financial certification procedure before an I-20 document can be issued. This process begins 120 days before the start of each trimester.

If you've submitted an application and want to check the status, e-mail admissions@thunderbird.edu for an update.

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