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Title
MBA Frequently Asked Questions
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general
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https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/mba-frequently-asked-questions
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2026-03-18T05:14:17+00:00
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# MBA Frequently Asked Questions

**Source**: https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/mba-frequently-asked-questions
**Parent**: https://business.rice.edu/

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## You Asked; We Answered

Below are a few common questions with answers to help you through your MBA application journey. If you cannot find an answer to your question below, please reach out to us at [ricemba@rice.edu](mailto:ricemba@rice.edu).

## Interested in Rice Business?

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### Programs: Frequently Asked Questions

- What is Rice Business known for?

  We are a small and selective business school with a challenging and [supportive learning culture](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/why-rice-business/tight-knit-culture). Rigorous and relevant. Our [world-renowned faculty](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research) and programs will feed your curiosity, nudge you to ask the right questions and provide you with the skills required to achieve your goals.

  At Rice Business, our program is more than academics. We provide plenty of opportunities to grow [outside the classroom](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/beyond-classroom). For instance, we provide [international opportunities for all MBA](http://business.rice.edu/rice-business-global) students designed to broaden your global perspective and prepare you to change the world. Nationally and globally, the Rice Business MBA program continues to be recognized for excellence and has risen consistently over the last decade, putting us in the company of the nation’s most distinguished business schools. [Learn more about Rice Business here](https://business.rice.edu/about#rankings).

  We have been the #1 graduate entrepreneurship program for the past seven years and have been in the top 10 for over 12 years. Here, [entrepreneurship](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/entrepreneurial-mindset) is more than a class— it’s a way of thinking that is central to all our teaching. Whether you’re starting a new enterprise or making something happen at the company where you work, the entrepreneurial mindset is a crucial part of your tool kit. \
  \
  No matter what Rice MBA program you choose, you belong here. [Explore here why a Rice MBA is right for you](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/why-rice-business).
- What MBA programs does Rice offer?

  We offer multiple MBA formats to meet your goals and schedule. No matter what MBA program you choose you will receive the same Rice MBA degree, learn from the same top-notch faculty and be part of an amazing tight-knit alumni network. We offer: 

  - A [Full-time MBA](https://business.rice.edu/node/306/), included a [Deferred MBA option](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/deferred-enrollment) for college seniors
  - A [Professional MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba) with weekend and evening options for those who want to work while earning their MBA on campus
  - A [Hybrid MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba) for working professionals within and outside of Houston who can only come to campus once a month
  - An Online MBA, [MBA@Rice](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/online-mba), for those who need the flexibility of an online program
  - An [Executive MBA](https://business.rice.edu/node/836/) for experienced professionals

  We also offer a coordinated MBA in [professional science](https://business.rice.edu/node/616/) and a dual [MD/MBA](https://business.rice.edu/node/626/) with Baylor College of Medicine. \
  \
  Not sure what program is right for you? [Take our quick assessment here to find the right MBA program for you](https://business.rice.edu/find-your-mba).
- Is the same degree granted in each MBA program?

  Yes, all students in our different MBA formats receive the same [Rice MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba) degree. [Take our quick assessment here to find the right MBA program for you](https://business.rice.edu/find-your-mba).
- Is your MBA program STEM certified? 

  Yes. All our MBA programs are STEM certified. The [STEM designation](https://business.rice.edu/admissions-blog/STEM-certified-MBA) is a direct response to the data-driven business environment, employer needs and student interest. Our Rice MBA graduates are known in the marketplace for broad problem-solving skills, reflecting a curriculum grounded in quantitative and data-analytic methodologies across the disciplines. [Learn more about our curriculum here.](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/curriculum)
- What is the importance of the STEM designation? 

  [This designation](https://business.rice.edu/admissions-blog/STEM-certified-MBA) not only recognizes the quantitative orientation of our programs, but also provides F-1 visa students the opportunity to apply for the STEM OPT extension. The extension allows international graduates, who may now hold U.S. jobs for only 12 months after graduation, to remain in the U.S. for an additional 24 months and receive training through work experience. All current and incoming Rice Business international students who are on an F-1 visa will be eligible to apply for the extension under this new designation. [Learn more about our curriculum here.](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/curriculum)
- How long is the MBA program?

  Our programs are designed to be completed in two years. You can finish the [online MBA](https://onlinebusiness.rice.edu/) program in as few as 24 months or extend to fit the program within your schedule.  [You can compare the different MBA formats offered here.](https://business.rice.edu/find-your-mba)No matter what Rice MBA you choose, you earn the same top-ranked MBA degree taught by the same world-class faculty. [Explore here why a Rice MBA is right for you](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/why-rice-business).
- What specializations are available? 

  No matter which MBA program you select, you can customize your degree with the electives. Our Online MBA students have [seven focus areas](http://onlinebusiness.rice.edu/) to choose from. And our Full-Time MBA students can choose from among 10 specializations. Each specialization requires 9-12 credits and is designed to complement the broader MBA education. Keep in mind: specializations are not mandatory; They are a means to enhance your personal and professional growth. Our advising team can work with you to plan your elective selections, using specializations as a guide.

  - [Accounting](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/accounting)
  - [Energy](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/energy)
  - [Entrepreneurship](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/entrepreneurship)
  - [Finance](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/finance)
  - [Healthcare](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/healthcare)
  - [Marketing](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/marketing)
  - [Operations Management](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/operations-management)
  - [Organizational Behavior](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/organizational-behavior)
  - [Real Estate](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/real-estate)
  - [Strategy and Environment](https://business.rice.edu/faculty-research/research/strategy-and-environment)

  [Read more about MBA specializations here](https://business.rice.edu/admissions-blog/mba-specializations).
- What kind of electives are offered in the MBA program?

  [Our programs’ curriculums](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/curriculum) are specifically designed to help you transform your career and equip you with problem-solving and critical-thinking skills that ensure your success. You can choose from 100+ electives in a variety of areas, including accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing and more. 

  Among [our top electives](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/curriculum/customizable-mba-electives) are exciting courses like Financing the Startup Venture, Entrepreneurship in Biotech, Blockchain: The Internet of Value, Power and Influence in Organizations, and Strategy in Technology Ecosystems. 

  Learn more about each program’s curriculum below: 

  - [The Full-Time MBA Curriculum](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/curriculum)
  - [The Professional MBA Curriculum](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba/curriculum)
  - [The Hybrid MBA Curriculum](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba/curriculum)
  - [The Executive MBA Curriculum](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/executive-mba/curriculum)
  - [The Online MBA Curriculum](https://onlinebusiness.rice.edu/mba/curriculum/)
- What is the difference between the MBA programs, especially the Professional, Hybrid, Executive and Online MBA?

  The same MBA degree is awarded in all programs, but the profile of the students in each program will differ. Our [Professional MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/mba-program-options/professional-mba) class has on average 7 years of work experience while our [Executive MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/mba-program-options/executive-mba) class has 17 years of work experience. Our [Executive MBA students](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/find-your-mba/executive-mba/meet-our-students) are experienced professionals already at the top of organizations. Our [Professional MBA students](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/student-ambassadors) are still striving for significant career growth. Our [Hybrid MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba) is similar to our Professional MBA but is designed for working professionals within and outside of Houston who can only come to campus once a month. Our [Online MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/online-mba) is nearly all online enabling students to earn a Rice MBA wherever they are.  We encourage you to [take our Find Your Rice MBA Quiz to find the right program for you](https://business.rice.edu/find-your-mba) or [speak with one of our recruiters](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/meet-team).
- What is the tuition for the Rice MBA?

  We offer five different MBA programs, a [Full-Time](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba), [Professional](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba), [Hybrid](http://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba), [Executive](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/executive-mba) and [Online MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/online-mba) program. You can view tuition\* and financial aid information for each of the programs below:

  - [Full-Time MBA: Tuition and Financial Aid](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/tuition-and-financial-aid)
  - [Professional MBA: Tuition and Financial Aid](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba/tuition-and-fees)
  - [Hybrid MBA: Tuition and Financial Aid](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba/tuition-and-fees)
  - [Executive MBA: Tuition and Financial Aid](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/executive-mba/tuition-and-fees)
  - [Online MBA: Tuition and Financial Aid](https://onlinebusiness.rice.edu/admissions/tuition-and-financial-aid/)

  An MBA from Rice is an investment that will pay dividends throughout your career. Our financial aid options, help make your goals attainable and ensure a strong return on your investment. [You can learn more about financing your degree here.](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/financing-your-degree)\
  \
  *\*Please note that tuition increases 3-5% each year and will not be published until late December before the year you plan to enroll in.*
- What is the class profile of the Rice MBA? 

  The class profiles for our MBA programs differ. You can view the class profiles for our [Full-Time](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba), [Professional](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba), [Hybrid](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba), [Online](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/online-mba) and [Executive](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/executive-mba) MBA programs below. 

  - [The Full-Time MBA Class Profile](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/class-profile)
  - [The Professional MBA Class Profile](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba/class-profile)
  - [The Executive MBA Class Profile](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/executive-mba/class-profile)
  - [The Hybrid MBA Class Profile](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/class-profiles)
  - [The Online MBA Class Profile](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/class-profiles)

  [We encourage you to join an admissions event or speak with a recruiter with any additional questions.](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/come-meet-us)
- How can I learn more about the Rice MBA programs?

  To learn about the Rice MBA programs, you can schedule a meeting with a member of the [Recruiting and Admissions team](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/meet-team), attend a [recruiting event](https://business.rice.edu/admissions-events), [visit a class](https://business.rice.edu/life-rice/come-see-us) or reach out to a [student ambassador](https://business.rice.edu/node/351).\
  \
  In the meantime, [explore the reasons why you belong at Rice Business here](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/why-rice-business).

### Career Outcomes: Frequently Asked Questions

- Who recruits at Rice Business?

  Our graduates reach record-breaking success in the job market – the product of strong partnerships between hiring companies and our alumni, faculty, staff and students. We draw employers in a wide variety of industries, led by consulting, finance, energy, manufacturing and technology. Employers who recruit include Google, Amazon, EY, Goldman Sachs and ExxonMobil, among [many others](https://business.rice.edu/companies-who-recruit).  

  To learn more about companies that recruit for our [Full-Time](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba) and [Professional MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba) programs, as well as other career highlights for the programs, check out the pages below: 

  - [Full-Time MBA Career Highlights](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/career-highlights)
  - [Professional MBA Career Highlights](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba/career-highlights)

  [Read more about why a Rice MBA is a good decision for career growth here](https://Why Are Rice MBA Programs Popular For Career Growth).
- What is the average starting salary of a Rice MBA? 

  In recent years, Rice had the highest salaries reported in school history. View up-to-date salary information for our [Full-Time](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba) and [Professional MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba) programs’ most recent class of graduates below: 

  - [Full-Time MBA Career Highlights](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/career-highlights)
  - [Professional MBA Career Highlights](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba/career-highlights)

  [Check out this blog that talks more about Rice MBA career outcomes](https://business.rice.edu/admissions-blog/top-employers-industries-and-salaries).
- Where do graduates work post-MBA?

  When you graduate from Rice Business, you join a supportive, worldwide network of alumni. While many are based in the southwest and the west coast, our graduates span 50+ countries and every major industry, including consulting, technology, finance, investment banking, energy, manufacturing and healthcare. Employers who recruit at Rice Business include Google, Amazon, EY, Goldman Sachs and ExxonMobil, among [many others](https://business.rice.edu/companies-who-recruit).  

  To learn more about career highlights for our [Full-Time](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba) and [Professional MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba) programs, view the pages below: 

  - [Full-Time MBA Career Highlights](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/career-highlights)
  - [Professional MBA Career Highlights](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba/career-highlights)

  [Check out this blog that talks more about Rice MBA career outcomes](https://business.rice.edu/admissions-blog/top-employers-industries-and-salaries).
- What are the top industries students go into after graduating from the Rice MBA program?

  The top industries for our [Full-Time MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/mba-program-options/full-time-mba) students are consulting, finance, investment banking, energy, technology, manufacturing and healthcare. Our students pursue many different types of roles within these industries and join industries outside of these. We invite you to visit the [Career Development Office](https://business.rice.edu/CDO) to learn more or [check out this blog that talks more about Rice MBA career outcomes](https://business.rice.edu/admissions-blog/top-employers-industries-and-salaries).

### The Application: Frequently Asked Questions

- When are the application deadlines?

  Please check the [Admissions Guide section](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/guide) of our site for the most up-to-date deadline information.
- What must be submitted to complete a Rice MBA application?

  Below is a high-level overview of what is generally needed for our application. You can [follow this link](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/guide) to view our detailed application guide. 

  - Completed online application
  - Required essays
  - Professional resume
  - Unofficial copies of test scores
  - Letters of recommendation
  - Unofficial copies of your transcripts
  - Application fee paid
- What do you look for in the MBA application?

  Rice Business is selective about who we admit because we want to foster rewarding and meaningful connections for our students. But that doesn’t mean we’re looking for a long list of accomplishments. We’re looking for diverse perspectives, authentic voices and innovative thinkers. 

  We want the application process to be as smooth as possible. Our [admissions guide](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/guide) will help you put your best foot forward. If you want to learn more about the application process, [attend an admissions event](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/admission-events), connect with our [recruiting and admissions team](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/meet-team), or reach out to a [current student.](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/student-ambassadors) We’re here to help you.
- Which of the admissions criteria are most important?

  Our application process is holistic, meaning that the Admissions Committee does not assign weights or percentages to the various application components. Rather, we evaluate metrics (GPA and standardized test scores) in conjunction with the more qualitative elements such as work experience, admissions interviews and community involvement, to determine a candidate’s overall fit with the program.
- Can I transfer into Rice Business from another educational or MBA program?

  Course work from other programs is not transferable.
- Does Rice require the GMAT, GRE or another standardized test for the MBA?

  We require either the GMAT, GRE or the Executive Assessment for our [Full-Time MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba), [Professional MBA](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba) and the [Hybrid MBA](http://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba). 

  Full-Time MBA candidates may be eligible for a standardized test waiver. You will have to start an application before you can request a GMAT waiver. For more information, please complete the [GMAT Waiver Request Form](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/gmat-waiver). 

  Professional MBA and Hybrid MBA candidates may apply without a test score with sufficient reasoning, such as a terminal degree, a master's degree or more than 3 years of work experience. There is an opportunity to explain this in your application. If you submit without a score, the admissions committee reserves the right to request a test score after review of your application.

  For Executive MBA applicants, we do not require a test but you may submit a valid test score if you have one. \
  \
  [Please visit here for test requirements for our online MBA program](https://onlinebusiness.rice.edu/admissions/application-requirements/).
- Do you give feedback on applications?

  Due to the sheer volume of applications we receive each year, we’re unable to provide feedback on each application.
- How will I know if I am a good fit for the Executive MBA program?

  We appreciate your interest in the Rice [Executive MBA program](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/flexible-mba/executive-mba). We recommend you share your resume or LinkedIn profile to us at [ricemba@rice.edu](mailto:ricemba@rice.edu?subject=Resume%20for%20Rice%20EMBA%20program). Once we receive your resume, we’ll provide feedback to help you figure out which MBA program is a good fit for you based on your experience and background. 

  [We also encourage you also to review our Find Your MBA page here to compare our different MBA programs](https://business.rice.edu/find-your-mba).
- Do you offer application fee waivers?

  We are proud to waive the $200 application fee for:

  - United States military personnel (active duty or veteran)
  - Forté Foundation MBALaunch members
  - Consortium applicants
  - MD/MBA dual degree program applicants
  - Rice University alumni
  - Prospective students referred to us by alumni through the [Build the Class](https://business.rice.edu/alumni/volunteer/build-class) program
  - Prospective students who attend an [admissions event](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/admission-events)

## Program-Specific Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

Check our program FAQs to get the info you need to start your application and join Rice Business. No matter your program, you’ll learn from the same world-class faculty and earn the same top-ranked MBA.

- [Full-Time MBA FAQs](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/full-time-mba/full-time-mba-frequently-asked-questions)
- [Professional MBA FAQs](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/professional-mba/professional-mba-frequently-asked-questions)
- [Executive MBA FAQs](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/executive-mba/executive-mba-frequently-asked-questions)
- [Hybrid MBA FAQs](https://business.rice.edu/rice-mba/hybrid-mba)
- [Online MBA FAQs](https://onlinebusiness.rice.edu/admissions/faq/)

## Keep Exploring

[Class Profiles](https://business.rice.edu/mba-admissions/class-profiles)

### Ready for the Next Step?

[Request More Information](https://business.rice.edu/request-information)