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How to apply

Index of Contents:

1. Application Process
2. Undergraduate Transcript
3. Letters of Recommendation (2)
4. Scores from GMAT or GRE Revised Test (taken after Aug. 1, 2011)
5. TOEFL Scores (if applicable)
6. Personal Essays
7. Submit Your Completed Application
8. Application Fee Payment
9. Application Review Periods

1. Application Process

All candidates for the Dual Degree must begin the application process by applying to Thunderbird using the online application. After submitting the application, you will work with Admissions Counselors at both Thunderbird and Kelley Direct to confirm the arrival and processing of these materials:

  • Two Personal essays
  • Test scores — GRE Revised Test (taken after August 1, 2011) or GMAT, and TOEFL (if applicable).
  • Two reference letters, preferably from a professional colleague or supervisor.
  • Official transcripts from the college or university from which you earned your undergraduate degree (or equivalent).
  • A current, chronological resume summarizing your professional experience, accomplishments and education.

You can also download the application checklist for more information.

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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. Your official Transcript(s) must be sent to both Thunderbird and Indiana University - Kelley Direct.

  • 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. Letters of Recommendation (2)

  • Each letter must come directly from the person who recommends you to Thunderbird.
  • Recommendations must be from your current or previous supervisor and accurately comment on your management and leadership ability. If that's not possible, please explain why.
  • Recommendations from sources not qualified to evaluate you on a professional basis are not acceptable.
  • Letters of recommendation 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. GMAT or GRE Revised Test (taken after August 1, 2011) Scores

These are mandatory — and used to assess your qualifications for advanced study in business and management. These must be sent to both Thunderbird and Indiana University - Kelley Direct.

  • All sections of the GMAT-verbal, quantitative, AWA must be completed and documented on the score report for the test to be valid.
  • GMAT scores are valid for five years and must be sent directly Pearson VUE-GMAT Testing Service (Thundbird Code P5K-H3-50, IU Code GKS-8M-09).
  • Typically – in the mid 80% range -- entering students score between 550 and 760.
  • Learn more about the GRE Revised Test

Note: Thunderbird offers a GMAT Prep program. For more information: GMAT-Prep Program.

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5. TOEFL Scores (if applicable)

An official TOEFL score report must be sent directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to both Thunderbird (Code: 4003) and Indiana University - Kelley Direct. This test is required of all applicants whose native language isn't English and who received their qualifying degree in a country where English isn't the primary or native language. The test must be current within 2 years of the desired program entry date. Applicants must receive a minimum of a 600 on the paper-based test, 250 on the CBT, or 100 on the Internet-based test, to be admitted to the Dual Degree program.

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6. Personal Essays

You are required to write two personal essays. Your essay should provide concise and specific insights into your decision to apply to Thunderbird. Please limit your essays to 2,000 words each. Topics are located on the application and the application checklist.

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7. Submit Your Completed Application

All candidates for the Dual Degree must submit their application online.

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8. Application Fee Payment

Your non-refundable $185.00 application fee may be paid online or by check, money order, or cashiers check, (in the U.S.) payable to Thunderbird School of Global Management.

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9. Application Review Periods

Applications must be submitted within the review period for each trimester. 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 $3,325 tuition deposit (payable to Indiana University-Kelley Direct) 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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