2+2 Program
What is 2+2?
A way for current students, either in college or a full-time master’s degree program, to apply to Harvard Business School on a deferred basis.
The 2+2 program is comprised of at least two years of professional work experience
followed by two years in the regular HBS MBA Program. We're looking for innovative
thinkers who have demonstrated leadership and analytical skills and want to develop
their knowledge and passion to make a difference in the world. After being admitted
through 2+2, students spend a minimum of two years (maximum of four years) working
in a professional position in the public, private, or nonprofit sector before enrolling
at HBS. Download the 2+2 Program Brochure to learn more.
Who Are We Looking For?
The 2+2 program is designed to create a pathway to the MBA for high-potential college
students.
Some preference will be given to applicants who are on paths less established in leading to business school, including:
Some preference will be given to applicants who are on paths less established in leading to business school, including:
- Applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds
- Applicants who are the first in their family to attend college
- Applicants who are planning to work in underrepresented industries and functions,
such as:
- Operating companies (e.g. consumer goods, industrials, manufacturing, retail, and technology. Employees within these companies engage with customers, create products and services, and manage staff.)
- Entrepreneurship (including founding an organization or joining an early-stage start-up.)
- Technically-demanding roles (e.g. engineering, software development, scientific research, and medical functions. These roles typically require a high level of specialized knowledge, skills, and expertise in a particular field.)
Are you in your final year of study? The 2+2 Application mirrors the MBA Application
but has its own deadline in April. Check out the Application Process page to read through the process of applying to the 2+2 program.
2+2 Cohort Profile
Undergraduate Majors
Why an MBA at HBS?
Myth Busting: Financial Aid for 2+2 Students
- 01 OCT 2020
While HBS Admissions is merit-based, HBS Financial Aid is need-based, made possible by the generous support of our alumni.
How I Spent My 2+2 Deferral: Cecil Alfaro-Mora
- 12 JAN 2022
In college I envisioned doing an MBA at some point. I thought of it as an ideal complement to my engineering background. Therefore, having a chance to apply earlier than usual was appealing. It came across as a high-reward and minimal-risk opportunity.
How I Spent My 2+2 Deferral: Jada Haynes
- 01 FEB 2023
I love the flexibility and optionality that the 2+2 deferred admissions program provided me at a very uncertain point in my life, as a graduating undergrad.
2+2 Where Are They Now Spotlight: Smitha Das (MBA 2018)
- 16 MAR 2021
With the security of the 2+2 program, I was able to take more risks, forgo traditional paths, and explore my passions – at that time, working in government.
What's Next?
Interested in 2+2 and want to learn about the next steps in the process?
Application Process
Ready to start your journey at HBS? Start the application process: