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The MBA in Global Management application process is streamlined and automated - and our team is here to help you every step of the way. A world of opportunities awaits. Isn't it time you became a T-bird?


How to apply

Thunderbird's application for admissions will be completed through the EMBARK application system. 

Index of Contents:
1. Application Process
2. Undergraduate Transcript
3. Letters of Recommendation
4. GMAT and TOEFL or IELTS Scores (if applicable)
5. Personal Essays
6. Submit Your Completed Application
7. Application Fee Payment
8. Deadlines
9. Review


1. Application Process

You may apply now using the Embark application service.

If you are having difficulties with the online application, please contact the Office of Admissions.

Here is what you will need to start the admissions process:

  • The online application.
  • Request for three personal essays.
  • Test scores: GMAT and TOEFL or IELTS (if applicable).
  • Request for reference letters: two 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 resume: a current, chronological summary of your professional experience, accomplishments and education.

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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. Letters of Recommendation

  • 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 Scores

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

  • 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 to Thunderbird by Pearson VUE-GMAT Testing Service (Code P5K-H3-14).
  • Typically, 80% of entering students score 550 to 760.
  • To improve your GMAT score, enroll in the Thunderbird GMAT-Prep Program.

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5. Personal Essays

You are required to write three 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 located on the application.

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6. Submit Your Supplemental Documents

When you complete all necessary documents, mail them to the following address:

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

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7. Application Fee Payment

Your non-refundable $USD 125.00 application fee may be paid by check, money order, a cashiers check, (in the U.S.) payable to Thunderbird School of Global Management.

You may also use a credit card. If paying by credit card, be sure to provide your full name, credit card number, card expiration date, the amount to charge your card, the purpose of the charge (Thunderbird MBA-GM Degree application) and your signature.

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8. 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 500.00 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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9. 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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