Applying to Darden
MBA - Admissions - FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Darden is committed to maintaining a thorough and fair admissions process for all applicants. In this section, you will find answers to our most frequently asked questions. Don't see your question here? Email us or attend an "Ask Us Anything" session to connect with a member of our Admissions Committee.
Darden Admission Tips With Dawna Clarke
Darden's Senior Assistant Dean of Admissions Dawna Clarke offers a series of videos offering best ideas and practices for crafting your ideal application.
FAQ about the Darden MBA format and application process are sorted into the following categories:
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General
What MBA formats does Darden offer?
How can I learn more about the Darden MBA?
- Visit the MBA website.
- Subscribe to the Darden Admissions & MBA Blog.
- Take the Darden School Virtual Tour.
- Attend an event.
- Review the MBA class profile.
- Contact current students.
- Visit the DardenMBA channel on YouTube.
- Stay connected with Darden on Facebook, Instagram and/or LinkedIn
What combined degree programs does Darden offer?
- MBA/JD
- MBA/MD
- MBA/MPH
- MBA/MEd
- MBA/ME
- MBA/MA in Government or Foreign Affairs
- MBA/MA in East Asian Studies
- MBA/Ph.D.
- MBA/SAIS MA
- MBA/MPP
Visit the Combined Degrees web page for more information.
Can I begin the MBA in the spring?
No, Darden only offers fall admission.
Can I apply to Darden if I already have an MBA?
The Darden School of Business does not admit students who have already completed an MBA from an AACSB accredited institution. To find out if a school is accredited by AACSB, please refer to the AACSB website.
Does Darden accept transfer credits?
No, Darden does not accept transfer credits.
If I am offered admission, can I defer my enrollment?
Deferral requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. We have recently granted deferrals for the following reasons: military service, health issues, and Teach for America service. In addition, some college seniors and recent college graduates may be offered deferred admission to attend in a subsequent year.
I do not have an undergraduate business degree nor do I work in a "business" functional area. Am I eligible for admission?
Yes, typically fewer than 50% of our students were undergraduate business or economics majors. Darden students come from a variety of settings, including non-profit, government, entrepreneurial/start-ups as well as traditional business settings. To find out more about our entering class, visit the MBA Class Profile.
How does Darden maintain a fair admissions process?
We do not tolerate conflicts of interest at Darden, and all UVA Darden personnel are prohibited from engaging in any outside employment or consulting which presents a conflict of interest with their duties (https://uvapolicy.virginia.edu/policy/HRM-025).
In order to meet regulatory, accreditation, and other reporting requirements, the Darden School asks applicants to report their race/ethnicity, as defined by U.S. Department of Education standards, as part of the application process. This individual applicant information on race/ethnicity is not available to anyone involved in the evaluation process while an applicant being considered for admission to the school. Individuals with any ethical or other concerns in the admissions process are able to report such concerns by email so that they can be independently reviewed and investigated.
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Application
What are the application requirements?
Visit Application Guidelines.
How do you assess candidates for the Darden MBA?
A minimum of two members of the Admissions Committee will review and evaluate your application based on three broad areas: academics, professional experience and personal qualities and characteristics. A balance in the three areas is valued, but there is no formula that ensures admission. Darden does not have any specific prerequisites, but accounting and statistics are recommended before matriculation.
May I apply to more than one of UVA Darden’s MBA formats at once?
No. When you start an application, you will choose a deadline corresponding to your preferred MBA format. If you have questions about which format of the Darden MBA may be right for you, we encourage you to schedule a conversation with a member of our Admissions team.
My undergraduate college does not grade students with the GPA system. Should I leave the min and max GPA range on the application blank?
If your undergraduate institution does not use the GPA system, then please enter a "0" (zero) in the fields on your application. Your transcript will tell us everything we need to know about the grading system used.
How should I provide my transcripts?
At the time of applying, Darden asks for unofficial transcripts. If an applicant is admitted and chooses to matriculate at Darden, then Darden will require official transcripts. These official transcripts can be emailed or mailed directly from the degree-granting institution. Electronic copies can be sent to darden@virginia.edu and hard-copy transcripts can be mailed to the following address. Please do not fax transcripts to Darden.
Mailing Address:
Darden School Admissions
100 Darden Blvd
Charlottesville, VA 22903My official transcripts will not reach Darden in time for the deadline. Will my application still be considered for that deadline?
We do not require official test scores and transcripts in order to process your application and get it to the committee for review. In the education section of the application, please enter the data requested and upload unofficial copies of all transcripts. If offered admission, you will need to send official documents. If you choose to send official documents in lieu of self-reporting on the online application, they must arrive in our office by the application deadline. For international students, attested transcript copies are considered official.
How much work experience do I need?
Although we have no minimum requirements, the average candidate has four years of work experience.
Do internships and cooperative education count as work experience?
No, internships and cooperative education are not considered full-time work experience.
How can I submit my recommendations?
When you add contact information for your recommenders within the application, they will receive an email containing the steps to submit their evaluation online. Once submitted, the recommendation will automatically associate with the application record, and the applicant will receive a confirmation email that their recommendation has been submitted.
How many recommendations are required?
Just one! Please limit supplemental recommendations to those individuals who can supply additional insight into your experience.
What if there isn't enough space for me to enter my information in some of the data fields, for example in responses to the short answer essay questions?
Some fields are deliberately restricted. With regard to the essay, applicants should respond to the essay question within the stated limit.
If I applied before and was denied, offered or waitlisted, can I reapply next year?
Yes, all re-applicants need to submit a new application and check the box in the application that indicates you have previously applied. The committee will review your previous application along with your current one. Please view the Reapplicant web page for additional information.
May I request an application fee waiver?
A nonrefundable application fee of $250 is required to process your application. However, we offer fee waivers in select circumstances:
- UVA alumni and current UVA graduate students
- Any alumni from any college/university in the commonwealth of Virginia (any degree program)
- Reapplicants (from Darden's most recent application cycle)
- First Generation college students
- U.S. Military Veterans/Active Duty Service members
- Confirmed In-Person Event Attendees in the 2025-2026 Application Cycle (between May 2025-April 2026)
- Open House
- Campus Visit
- In-Person event (both on- and off-Grounds)
- In-Person MBA Tour, MBA Fairs and other multi-school events where Darden participates
If you qualify for a waiver, your application fee waiver will be applied automatically and you will receive an email confirmation that the fee waiver has been applied. Application fee waivers are applied at the time an application is submitted. We are unable to issue refunds for application fees. If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver but are prompted to pay the application fee, please contact us at darden@virginia.edu. You may receive a request for further documentation for your fee waiver eligibility, if needed.
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Standardized Tests
What standardized tests does Darden accept?
In our Full-Time MBA application process, we accept several of standardized tests that are viewed equivalently by the Admissions Committee: GMAT (Previous and Current Editions), GRE, Executive Assessment (EA), MCAT and LSAT.
Differences between the Previous and Current Editions of the GMAT:
GMAT Previous Edition:Offered from 2012 to 2024, the previous GMAT version had total scores ending in a “0” and contained four test components:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Integrated Reasoning
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) *Not applicable for online tests
GMAT Current Edition:
Offered since November 2023, the current GMAT version has total scores ending in a “5” and three test components:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Data Insights
If I have already taken the GMAT, should I take the GRE?
No. You only need to take one of these exams. If you have taken the GMAT, we will have access to that score. Taking both tests will not give you an evaluative advantage.
What are the minimum requirements for the GMAT, GRE and GPA?
Darden has no minimum requirements for the GMAT, GRE or GPA. If you take the GMAT or GRE multiple times, Darden will consider your highest total score when evaluating your application — we do not combine scores.
My test score is about to expire. Will you still accept it?
Standardized test scores must be valid as of the deadline date of the round in which you apply.
Do I need to send official test scores by the application deadline?
Yes, official test scores (or a test waiver) are required in order for your application to be considered complete.
I took a standardized test but do think the score is reflective of my abilities. Should I still submit the score?
Unless granted a test waiver, applicants are required to submit all valid test scores (GMAT/GRE/EA/MCAT/LSAT) with their application. In instances of cancelled or expired test scores, candidates should note the test administration but are not required to report the overall score or score breakdown for those administrations. As a reminder, standardized tests are just one piece of information in a broad, holistic application review process.
How does Darden think about these tests and does Darden have a test preference?
Standardized tests are just one piece of information in a broad, holistic application review process, and applicants are encouraged to choose the test that best aligns with their strengths, background and application plans. Our Admissions Committee has no test preference, and we view each of the tests we accept in our application process equivalently.
Should I submit a test waiver application?
Waiver applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and our Admissions Committee will consider a number of factors when evaluating these requests. Particular regard will be given for indicators of academic and professional accomplishment, including but not limited to:
- A strong undergraduate record, including performance in analytical coursework or disciplines
-
For the purposes of the test waiver review process, a “strong” undergraduate record has an above average as a cumulative undergraduate grade point average exceeding the average for UVA Darden’s most recent matriculating Full-Time MBA class. In past years, the average undergraduate GPA for UVA Darden’s Full-Time MBA classes has been around 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
Transcripts for all degree-related coursework are required, and the test waiver committee will also take note of individual classes. The committee looks favorably upon quantitatively- focused majors as well as substantive coursework in quantitative or analytical areas.
-
- Master's or advanced degree in analytical discipline
- At least three years of professional work experience, especially from quantitative or analytical career paths
These factors will be considered in combination with resume and transcripts for all degree-related coursework. Candidates who present a strong profile across several criteria (including supporting materials) are more likely to be granted a test waiver.
How do I submit a test waiver application?
If you have not begun a degree application yet, start a new application and select Full-Time Test Waiver Application to begin. Some of the information will carry over from the degree program application.
Is there additional supplemental information I can provide to support my test waiver application?
Some candidates may find it beneficial to submit prior college admissions test scores and/or professional certifications with their test waiver application as additional, alternative evidence of their academic readiness for UVA Darden's curriculum.
These supplemental materials may include, but are not limited to:
- SAT and/or ACT test scores
- CPA, CFA, or other quantitative professional certification
These factors are supplemental and will be considered in combination with the academic and professional qualifications outlined above.
As an international student, do I need to provide any additional information in my test waiver application?
International candidates who are not from an English-speaking country may be required to submit a valid English proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or DET) as part of the test waiver application process.
Are there potential trade-offs to be considered before submitted a test waiver application?
There are several key considerations to be weighed before submitting a waiver application:
Admissions. For most applicants, a test score is a way of strengthening their application, demonstrating their academic aptitude and providing our Admissions Committee additional, relevant data to consider in our evaluation process.
Scholarship Review. A test score can be an additional data point for our Scholarship Committee to consider when evaluating an admitted student for a scholarship award.
Career Goals. Some employers, particularly in industries like finance and consulting, may request a GMAT or GRE score as part of their screening process.
When should I submit a test waiver application?
Candidates may submit a waiver application prior to submitting their degree application. However, it is not necessary to have started an application to submit a test waiver application. We recommend applicants seeking a test waiver submit their request at least three to four weeks prior to their targeted round deadline.
All waiver applications must be submitted and approved prior to the round deadline, and candidates who submit a waiver application are advised to wait to submit their full degree application until they have been notified about the outcome of their waiver application.
How long will it take to receive a decision about my test waiver application?
You will receive a decision from your test waiver application within an average of 10-14 business days.
If I receive a test waiver, will any test score that I previously shared with Darden be included in the review of my application?
No. If a candidate receives a test waiver, our Admissions Committee will not consider any previously submitted test scores when reviewing their application.
What if I submit a test waiver application but am not granted a waiver? Will this negatively affect my application?
No, being granted or denied a test waiver is in no way indicative of a candidate’s competitiveness in the admissions process.
How long is a test waiver valid?
Test waivers are valid for the application cycle in which they are granted. For example, a waiver requested for the 2025–26 application cycle is valid for the 2025–26 application cycle only and cannot be transferred to a subsequent application cycles.
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International Applicants
How can I learn about application information specific to international applicants?
Visit International Applicant Information.
Why is English proficiency required for applicants?
Darden’s MBA format is built upon an immersive learning experience that requires public speaking, group discussion and active class participation. To succeed, students must possess a highly developed proficiency in written and oral English.
How are English abilities assessed?
Written and oral communication, as well as one of the following tests:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE (Pearson Test of English)
- DET (Duolingo English Test)
Are international applicants required to take one of the approved English assessment tests listed above (even if I attended a school where the medium of instruction was English)?
- Not Required: Candidates who received their bachelor's degree from a university where the medium of instruction was English are not required to take an English language assessment test (i.e., they are exempt).
- Required: Candidates who received their bachelor's degree from a university where the medium of instruction was not English are required to take an English language assessment test.
- Strongly Recommended: Candidates who received their bachelor's degree from a university where the medium of instruction was not English, but received a master's or PhD degree from a university where the medium of instruction was English are strongly encouraged to take an English language assessment test.
What is the minimum acceptable TOEFL score? Do you keep scores submitted in prior years?
We do not have a minimum requirement, but the average TOEFL score is 106. TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date.
I earned an undergraduate degree that required only three years of study. Am I eligible to apply to Darden?
Yes.
If I am an international candidate, when should I apply?
All applicants to Darden should apply in one of our four rounds. International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply in earlier rounds such as Early Action or Round 1 but offers are still made to qualified international applicants in Round 2 and Round 3. Review application deadlines here.
How can I contact students for my country/region of the world, and how can I learn more about the international community at Darden?
- Contact the Student Ambassadors, several interational student ambassadors are listed on this page.
- Visit Global MBA Opportunities
- Discover international Student Organizations
Does Darden offer financial aid to international students?
Yes. Scholarships are available to international students.
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Visits & Interviews
Can I observe a class or visit Grounds?
Yes! Please view our Visit Darden web page for opportunities to attend an MBA Class Visit, Friday Chat and Tour or Day With Darden event. We look forward to welcoming you to Grounds!
Is an interview required?
Interviews play a critical role in our assessment of candidates and are required prior to acceptance into the program. An invitation-only interview is conducted after your application has been submitted and reviewed by the Admissions Committee. In our Full-Time MBA application process, interviews are conducted by either Admissions Committee members or Second Year students. Interviews are given equal weight for any interviewer type.
Interview notification can take place at any time up until the decision release date for the deadline in which you have applied and may not necessarily fall during the designated interview periods. For important Admissions deadlines, visit Application Deadlines.
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Financial Aid
What is the cost of the Full-Time MBA program?
For the full cost of attendance, visit our Tuition & Expenses page.
Who is considered for the merit scholarship?
If admitted, students are automatically evaluated for merit-scholarships, which are competitively awarded based on a variety of metrics and considerations. Visit Scholarships for more information.
Where can I find more information about financial aid?
The Financial Aid website has information related to the estimated cost of tuition and paths to finance your MBA.
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Student Life
What is a typical day like for a First Year student?
- 8:00 a.m.–9:25 a.m. First Class
- 9:25 a.m.–10:00 a.m. First Coffee
- 10:00 a.m.–11:25 a.m. Second Class
- 11:25 a.m.–11:45 a.m. Break
- 11:45 a.m.–1:10 p.m. Third Class
- 1:10 p.m.–2:30 p.m. Lunch, school events/activities, meetings, company briefings, etc.
- 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Learning Team (this is the typical meeting period; times vary by team)
Where can I learn more about your employment statistics and companies that recruit at Darden?
What resources are available for my partner to find employment and to learn more about Charlottesville?
Visit the Darden Partners Association website.
Where can I find out more information about housing?
View Student Housing Options.
Is it possible to work part time while enrolled in the Full-Time MBA?
No, students are not able to work while enrolled in the Full-Time MBA program. From 8 a.m. classes to evening learning team sessions, your schedule will be filled with courses, recruiting activities, club events, and case preparation. Because of this intensive pace, students are not able to work during the program. If you are interested in a more flexible format that allows you to work while attending classes, please explore the Darden MBA's Part-Time or Executive formats.
What MBA formats does Darden offer?
How can I learn more about the Darden MBA?
- Visit the MBA website.
- Subscribe to the Darden Admissions & MBA Blog.
- Take the Darden School Virtual Tour.
- Attend an event.
- Review the MBA class profile.
- Contact current students.
- Visit the DardenMBA channel on YouTube.
- Stay connected with Darden on Facebook, Instagram and/or LinkedIn
What combined degree programs does Darden offer?
- MBA/JD
- MBA/MD
- MBA/MPH
- MBA/MEd
- MBA/ME
- MBA/MA in Government or Foreign Affairs
- MBA/MA in East Asian Studies
- MBA/Ph.D.
- MBA/SAIS MA
- MBA/MPP
Visit the Combined Degrees web page for more information.
Can I begin the MBA in the spring?
No, Darden only offers fall admission.
Can I apply to Darden if I already have an MBA?
The Darden School of Business does not admit students who have already completed an MBA from an AACSB accredited institution. To find out if a school is accredited by AACSB, please refer to the AACSB website.
Does Darden accept transfer credits?
No, Darden does not accept transfer credits.
If I am offered admission, can I defer my enrollment?
Deferral requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. We have recently granted deferrals for the following reasons: military service, health issues, and Teach for America service. In addition, some college seniors and recent college graduates may be offered deferred admission to attend in a subsequent year.
I do not have an undergraduate business degree nor do I work in a "business" functional area. Am I eligible for admission?
Yes, typically fewer than 50% of our students were undergraduate business or economics majors. Darden students come from a variety of settings, including non-profit, government, entrepreneurial/start-ups as well as traditional business settings. To find out more about our entering class, visit the MBA Class Profile.
How does Darden maintain a fair admissions process?
We do not tolerate conflicts of interest at Darden, and all UVA Darden personnel are prohibited from engaging in any outside employment or consulting which presents a conflict of interest with their duties (https://uvapolicy.virginia.edu/policy/HRM-025).
In order to meet regulatory, accreditation, and other reporting requirements, the Darden School asks applicants to report their race/ethnicity, as defined by U.S. Department of Education standards, as part of the application process. This individual applicant information on race/ethnicity is not available to anyone involved in the evaluation process while an applicant being considered for admission to the school. Individuals with any ethical or other concerns in the admissions process are able to report such concerns by email so that they can be independently reviewed and investigated.
What are the application requirements?
Visit Application Guidelines.
How do you assess candidates for the Darden MBA?
A minimum of two members of the Admissions Committee will review and evaluate your application based on three broad areas: academics, professional experience and personal qualities and characteristics. A balance in the three areas is valued, but there is no formula that ensures admission. Darden does not have any specific prerequisites, but accounting and statistics are recommended before matriculation.
May I apply to more than one of UVA Darden’s MBA formats at once?
No. When you start an application, you will choose a deadline corresponding to your preferred MBA format. If you have questions about which format of the Darden MBA may be right for you, we encourage you to schedule a conversation with a member of our Admissions team.
My undergraduate college does not grade students with the GPA system. Should I leave the min and max GPA range on the application blank?
If your undergraduate institution does not use the GPA system, then please enter a "0" (zero) in the fields on your application. Your transcript will tell us everything we need to know about the grading system used.
How should I provide my transcripts?
At the time of applying, Darden asks for unofficial transcripts. If an applicant is admitted and chooses to matriculate at Darden, then Darden will require official transcripts. These official transcripts can be emailed or mailed directly from the degree-granting institution. Electronic copies can be sent to darden@virginia.edu and hard-copy transcripts can be mailed to the following address. Please do not fax transcripts to Darden.
Mailing Address:
Darden School Admissions
100 Darden Blvd
Charlottesville, VA 22903
My official transcripts will not reach Darden in time for the deadline. Will my application still be considered for that deadline?
We do not require official test scores and transcripts in order to process your application and get it to the committee for review. In the education section of the application, please enter the data requested and upload unofficial copies of all transcripts. If offered admission, you will need to send official documents. If you choose to send official documents in lieu of self-reporting on the online application, they must arrive in our office by the application deadline. For international students, attested transcript copies are considered official.
How much work experience do I need?
Although we have no minimum requirements, the average candidate has four years of work experience.
Do internships and cooperative education count as work experience?
No, internships and cooperative education are not considered full-time work experience.
How can I submit my recommendations?
When you add contact information for your recommenders within the application, they will receive an email containing the steps to submit their evaluation online. Once submitted, the recommendation will automatically associate with the application record, and the applicant will receive a confirmation email that their recommendation has been submitted.
How many recommendations are required?
Just one! Please limit supplemental recommendations to those individuals who can supply additional insight into your experience.
What if there isn't enough space for me to enter my information in some of the data fields, for example in responses to the short answer essay questions?
Some fields are deliberately restricted. With regard to the essay, applicants should respond to the essay question within the stated limit.
If I applied before and was denied, offered or waitlisted, can I reapply next year?
Yes, all re-applicants need to submit a new application and check the box in the application that indicates you have previously applied. The committee will review your previous application along with your current one. Please view the Reapplicant web page for additional information.
May I request an application fee waiver?
A nonrefundable application fee of $250 is required to process your application. However, we offer fee waivers in select circumstances:
- UVA alumni and current UVA graduate students
- Any alumni from any college/university in the commonwealth of Virginia (any degree program)
- Reapplicants (from Darden's most recent application cycle)
- First Generation college students
- U.S. Military Veterans/Active Duty Service members
- Confirmed In-Person Event Attendees in the 2025-2026 Application Cycle (between May 2025-April 2026)
- Open House
- Campus Visit
- In-Person event (both on- and off-Grounds)
- In-Person MBA Tour, MBA Fairs and other multi-school events where Darden participates
If you qualify for a waiver, your application fee waiver will be applied automatically and you will receive an email confirmation that the fee waiver has been applied. Application fee waivers are applied at the time an application is submitted. We are unable to issue refunds for application fees. If you believe you qualify for a fee waiver but are prompted to pay the application fee, please contact us at darden@virginia.edu. You may receive a request for further documentation for your fee waiver eligibility, if needed.
What standardized tests does Darden accept?
In our Full-Time MBA application process, we accept several of standardized tests that are viewed equivalently by the Admissions Committee: GMAT (Previous and Current Editions), GRE, Executive Assessment (EA), MCAT and LSAT.
Differences between the Previous and Current Editions of the GMAT:
GMAT Previous Edition:
Offered from 2012 to 2024, the previous GMAT version had total scores ending in a “0” and contained four test components:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Integrated Reasoning
- Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) *Not applicable for online tests
GMAT Current Edition:
Offered since November 2023, the current GMAT version has total scores ending in a “5” and three test components:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Data Insights
If I have already taken the GMAT, should I take the GRE?
No. You only need to take one of these exams. If you have taken the GMAT, we will have access to that score. Taking both tests will not give you an evaluative advantage.
What are the minimum requirements for the GMAT, GRE and GPA?
Darden has no minimum requirements for the GMAT, GRE or GPA. If you take the GMAT or GRE multiple times, Darden will consider your highest total score when evaluating your application — we do not combine scores.
My test score is about to expire. Will you still accept it?
Standardized test scores must be valid as of the deadline date of the round in which you apply.
Do I need to send official test scores by the application deadline?
Yes, official test scores (or a test waiver) are required in order for your application to be considered complete.
I took a standardized test but do think the score is reflective of my abilities. Should I still submit the score?
Unless granted a test waiver, applicants are required to submit all valid test scores (GMAT/GRE/EA/MCAT/LSAT) with their application. In instances of cancelled or expired test scores, candidates should note the test administration but are not required to report the overall score or score breakdown for those administrations. As a reminder, standardized tests are just one piece of information in a broad, holistic application review process.
How does Darden think about these tests and does Darden have a test preference?
Standardized tests are just one piece of information in a broad, holistic application review process, and applicants are encouraged to choose the test that best aligns with their strengths, background and application plans. Our Admissions Committee has no test preference, and we view each of the tests we accept in our application process equivalently.
Should I submit a test waiver application?
Waiver applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and our Admissions Committee will consider a number of factors when evaluating these requests. Particular regard will be given for indicators of academic and professional accomplishment, including but not limited to:
- A strong undergraduate record, including performance in analytical coursework or disciplines
-
For the purposes of the test waiver review process, a “strong” undergraduate record has an above average as a cumulative undergraduate grade point average exceeding the average for UVA Darden’s most recent matriculating Full-Time MBA class. In past years, the average undergraduate GPA for UVA Darden’s Full-Time MBA classes has been around 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
Transcripts for all degree-related coursework are required, and the test waiver committee will also take note of individual classes. The committee looks favorably upon quantitatively- focused majors as well as substantive coursework in quantitative or analytical areas.
-
- Master's or advanced degree in analytical discipline
- At least three years of professional work experience, especially from quantitative or analytical career paths
These factors will be considered in combination with resume and transcripts for all degree-related coursework. Candidates who present a strong profile across several criteria (including supporting materials) are more likely to be granted a test waiver.
How do I submit a test waiver application?
If you have not begun a degree application yet, start a new application and select Full-Time Test Waiver Application to begin. Some of the information will carry over from the degree program application.
Is there additional supplemental information I can provide to support my test waiver application?
Some candidates may find it beneficial to submit prior college admissions test scores and/or professional certifications with their test waiver application as additional, alternative evidence of their academic readiness for UVA Darden's curriculum.
These supplemental materials may include, but are not limited to:
- SAT and/or ACT test scores
- CPA, CFA, or other quantitative professional certification
These factors are supplemental and will be considered in combination with the academic and professional qualifications outlined above.
As an international student, do I need to provide any additional information in my test waiver application?
International candidates who are not from an English-speaking country may be required to submit a valid English proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or DET) as part of the test waiver application process.
Are there potential trade-offs to be considered before submitted a test waiver application?
There are several key considerations to be weighed before submitting a waiver application:
Admissions. For most applicants, a test score is a way of strengthening their application, demonstrating their academic aptitude and providing our Admissions Committee additional, relevant data to consider in our evaluation process.
Scholarship Review. A test score can be an additional data point for our Scholarship Committee to consider when evaluating an admitted student for a scholarship award.
Career Goals. Some employers, particularly in industries like finance and consulting, may request a GMAT or GRE score as part of their screening process.
When should I submit a test waiver application?
Candidates may submit a waiver application prior to submitting their degree application. However, it is not necessary to have started an application to submit a test waiver application. We recommend applicants seeking a test waiver submit their request at least three to four weeks prior to their targeted round deadline.
All waiver applications must be submitted and approved prior to the round deadline, and candidates who submit a waiver application are advised to wait to submit their full degree application until they have been notified about the outcome of their waiver application.
How long will it take to receive a decision about my test waiver application?
You will receive a decision from your test waiver application within an average of 10-14 business days.
If I receive a test waiver, will any test score that I previously shared with Darden be included in the review of my application?
No. If a candidate receives a test waiver, our Admissions Committee will not consider any previously submitted test scores when reviewing their application.
What if I submit a test waiver application but am not granted a waiver? Will this negatively affect my application?
No, being granted or denied a test waiver is in no way indicative of a candidate’s competitiveness in the admissions process.
How long is a test waiver valid?
Test waivers are valid for the application cycle in which they are granted. For example, a waiver requested for the 2025–26 application cycle is valid for the 2025–26 application cycle only and cannot be transferred to a subsequent application cycles.
How can I learn about application information specific to international applicants?
Visit International Applicant Information.
Why is English proficiency required for applicants?
Darden’s MBA format is built upon an immersive learning experience that requires public speaking, group discussion and active class participation. To succeed, students must possess a highly developed proficiency in written and oral English.
How are English abilities assessed?
Written and oral communication, as well as one of the following tests:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- PTE (Pearson Test of English)
- DET (Duolingo English Test)
Are international applicants required to take one of the approved English assessment tests listed above (even if I attended a school where the medium of instruction was English)?
- Not Required: Candidates who received their bachelor's degree from a university where the medium of instruction was English are not required to take an English language assessment test (i.e., they are exempt).
- Required: Candidates who received their bachelor's degree from a university where the medium of instruction was not English are required to take an English language assessment test.
- Strongly Recommended: Candidates who received their bachelor's degree from a university where the medium of instruction was not English, but received a master's or PhD degree from a university where the medium of instruction was English are strongly encouraged to take an English language assessment test.
What is the minimum acceptable TOEFL score? Do you keep scores submitted in prior years?
We do not have a minimum requirement, but the average TOEFL score is 106. TOEFL scores are valid for two years from the test date.
I earned an undergraduate degree that required only three years of study. Am I eligible to apply to Darden?
Yes.
If I am an international candidate, when should I apply?
All applicants to Darden should apply in one of our four rounds. International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply in earlier rounds such as Early Action or Round 1 but offers are still made to qualified international applicants in Round 2 and Round 3. Review application deadlines here.
How can I contact students for my country/region of the world, and how can I learn more about the international community at Darden?
- Contact the Student Ambassadors, several interational student ambassadors are listed on this page.
- Visit Global MBA Opportunities
- Discover international Student Organizations
Does Darden offer financial aid to international students?
Yes. Scholarships are available to international students.
Can I observe a class or visit Grounds?
Yes! Please view our Visit Darden web page for opportunities to attend an MBA Class Visit, Friday Chat and Tour or Day With Darden event. We look forward to welcoming you to Grounds!
Is an interview required?
Interviews play a critical role in our assessment of candidates and are required prior to acceptance into the program. An invitation-only interview is conducted after your application has been submitted and reviewed by the Admissions Committee. In our Full-Time MBA application process, interviews are conducted by either Admissions Committee members or Second Year students. Interviews are given equal weight for any interviewer type.
Interview notification can take place at any time up until the decision release date for the deadline in which you have applied and may not necessarily fall during the designated interview periods. For important Admissions deadlines, visit Application Deadlines.
What is the cost of the Full-Time MBA program?
For the full cost of attendance, visit our Tuition & Expenses page.
Who is considered for the merit scholarship?
If admitted, students are automatically evaluated for merit-scholarships, which are competitively awarded based on a variety of metrics and considerations. Visit Scholarships for more information.
Where can I find more information about financial aid?
The Financial Aid website has information related to the estimated cost of tuition and paths to finance your MBA.
What is a typical day like for a First Year student?
- 8:00 a.m.–9:25 a.m. First Class
- 9:25 a.m.–10:00 a.m. First Coffee
- 10:00 a.m.–11:25 a.m. Second Class
- 11:25 a.m.–11:45 a.m. Break
- 11:45 a.m.–1:10 p.m. Third Class
- 1:10 p.m.–2:30 p.m. Lunch, school events/activities, meetings, company briefings, etc.
- 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. Learning Team (this is the typical meeting period; times vary by team)
Where can I learn more about your employment statistics and companies that recruit at Darden?
What resources are available for my partner to find employment and to learn more about Charlottesville?
Visit the Darden Partners Association website.
Where can I find out more information about housing?
View Student Housing Options.
Is it possible to work part time while enrolled in the Full-Time MBA?
No, students are not able to work while enrolled in the Full-Time MBA program. From 8 a.m. classes to evening learning team sessions, your schedule will be filled with courses, recruiting activities, club events, and case preparation. Because of this intensive pace, students are not able to work during the program. If you are interested in a more flexible format that allows you to work while attending classes, please explore the Darden MBA's Part-Time or Executive formats.