As we approach the 2+2 application deadline, we wanted to answer some of your most common questions about the 2+2 program. We hope this information is useful as you finalize your applications in the next few weeks! We also encourage you to download the 2+2 brochure, check out the FAQs webpage, and visit the Application Process page.
Which standardized tests does the 2+2 program accept? What is the range of GMAT or GRE scores for accepted students?
While you are required to submit either the GMAT or the GRE as a part of the 2+2 program application process, we do not have a preference for either test.
We hope that all applicants will recognize the following: the full range of GMAT/GRE scores is very broad, that there is no minimum score requirement, and that the GMAT/GRE is just one piece of data among the many used to evaluate an application.
Can I take the GMAT or GRE after the 2+2 application deadline?
No, you must take the GMAT or GRE by the application deadline and submit your score with your application. Unofficial scores are acceptable at the time of application, but every applicant must request to have their official score submitted to HBS. You do not need to have the results of the AWA section of the GMAT or GRE in order to apply; however, we do expect you to complete this portion of the exam and we will require an AWA score for anyone admitted to the program.
My bachelor's degree program did not follow a traditional four-year timeline (i.e. it was shorter or longer), am I still eligible to apply to HBS through the 2+2 process?
Yes. There are no minimum or maximum requirements for the length of time spent working toward your bachelor's degree. You can apply to HBS through the 2+2 program as long as you're in the final year of undergraduate study. Candidates in the process of completing a master’s degree are eligible for the 2+2 program as long as you did not take a full-time job in between your undergraduate and master’s degree programs (see Eligibility).
Are there specific types of work experience that will make me a more attractive candidate?
Rather than focus on specific categories of work experiences, applicants should focus on the roles, responsibilities, and what they have learned from the types of work experiences in which they were involved. We will look at the nature of an applicant's work experience when evaluating the applicant’s ability to handle the academic rigor of our MBA program.
Why do I need work experience before enrolling?
The case method style of learning used by our MBA program relies on exchanging perspectives. Our MBA students draw on their individual professional experiences when analyzing and discussing cases in class with their peers. College seniors need to apply through the 2+2 program application with the expectation that they will be offered deferred admission, i.e. an offer of admission to a future class conditional on acquiring 2-4 years of full-time work experience.
If admitted, am I limited to two years of deferral?
You are not limited to two years of deferral. In many cases, we allow 2+2 admits to defer for three or four years in an HBS-approved professional opportunity before matriculating to HBS. Approvals are offered on a case-by-case basis.
When I come to HBS, will I (and the other 2+2 admitted students) be part of a separate program?
No. Once 2+2 students begin their MBA experience on campus, they will be integrated into the HBS community with all other students in the MBA Program.