Cornell MBA Introduction
Cornell University's MBA program is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and distinguished faculty, earning it a prominent reputation in the academic world. With a network of accomplished alumni across various industries, graduates of the program are equipped with a unique blend of business acumen and interpersonal skills, positioning them for success in any field they choose. The program places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, offering courses that combine analytical thinking with practical applications to cultivate a versatile skill set.
Through immersive experiences, students develop leadership abilities, foster innovation, and gain a deep understanding of financial principles. Whether seeking to refine management skills or broaden career opportunities, the Cornell MBA program provides an ideal platform for individuals looking to excel in the dynamic realm of business.
Cornell MBA Class Profile
The Cornell MBA class profile includes approximately 43% international students. The class size at Cornell MBA program is 303. The class has 61% male students and 39% female pupils. The average age of students is 29 and the come from a variety of backgrounds. The class has a diverse range of Students, which adds to the class's diversity.
Cornell MBA Acceptance Rate
A candidate's chances to get into The Cornell University or any other top-tier business school largely depend on the quality and diversity of the applicant pool. The admissions committee follows a holistic review process that considers several factors, including academic achievements, work experience, leadership potential, extracurricular activities and how well the candidate's values align with Cornell's culture. Each applicant is evaluated thoroughly to ensure they meet the school's high standards for excellence.
With a mere acceptance rate, the Cornell MBA program class profile is incredibly selective, primarily due to its commitment to cultivating a diverse classroom environment and providing exceptional education. This program boasts a team of outstanding educators and carries a substantial price tag of $79,910. However, graduates enjoy an average salary of $155,140, making it a worthwhile investment for those who are able to gain admission.
the Cornell MBA acceptance Rate - 10.1%
Program and Curriculum Cornell MBA
Cornell MBA course duration and curriculum have Core and Elective courses, which are as follows:
Core Courses
Leading Teams | Learn how to lead, manage and motivate teams to achieve common goals. |
Microeconomics for Management | Learn how to analyze markets and make strategic decisions based on economic principles. |
Marketing Management | Explore the fundamentals of marketing which include product development, pricing, promotion and distribution. |
Financial Accounting | Develop an understanding of financial statements and their use in decision making. |
Thinking skills | Develop critical thinking skills to analyze and solve complex business problems. |
Electives
Entrepreneurship and Innovation | This course focuses on the key concepts and frameworks for starting and scaling a new business venture. |
Digital Marketing | This course provides a deep dive into digital marketing channels, tactics and strategies for businesses. |
Real Estate Finance and Investments | This course covers the principles of real estate finance and investment, which include deal analysis, valuation and risk assessment. |
Negotiations | This course focuses on negotiation strategies and tactics, with an emphasis on preparing for and executing successful negotiations in a variety of settings. |
Global Business Immersion | This course offers a hands-on immersive experience in a global business environment providing students with the opportunity to apply classroom concepts to real world challenges. |
Clubs and Associations
Residential MBA Clubs | Residential MBA Clubs at Cornell University are extracurricular organizations that allow MBA students to explore their interests and network with other students. Access Johnson is a group that you can join |
Cohort | Cohort groups are smaller teams that are formed at the beginning of the program and provide a supportive and collaborative environment for students to work and learn together. Cohort A falls under this category. |
Other student groups | Other student groups offer a range of opportunities for students to get involved in various fields of interest, from finance and entrepreneurship to sports and social activism. For example, BR Consulting (BRC) is one such student group. |
Extra Activities
- Annual Johnson Women in Business (JWiB) event: The JWiB event is an annual gathering that provides women interested in pursuing an MBA with valuable insights and resources to support their aspirations. The event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Johnson MBA program, student experience, and connect with alumni, faculty, staff, and students.
- Johnson Leadership Expedition: The Johnson Leadership Expedition is an immersive experience that challenges MBA students to develop their leadership skills in a dynamic and unpredictable environment. Participants are taken out of their comfort zones and placed in unfamiliar settings where they must make decisions with incomplete information and ambiguous outcomes.
- Apart from these students also get a chance to engage in a variety of competitions and apply their classroom knowledge to real-world business problems and compete against other top business schools.
Scholarships
- Park Leadership Fellowships: The Park Leadership Fellowship is a prestigious, full-tuition scholarship awarded to up to 25 U.S. citizens each year. In addition to covering the cost of tuition, the fellowship also includes a stipend for living expenses, as well as opportunities for leadership development and mentorship. To be considered for this fellowship, applicants must demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
- Consortium for Graduate Study in Management Fellowship: The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management is a national organization that works to increase diversity and representation in business education and leadership. Cornell is one of the member schools, and eligible candidates can be considered for a full-tuition, merit-based fellowship through the Consortium. African American, Hispanic American, and Native American applicants are particularly encouraged to apply.
- Forté Fellows Program: The Forté Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing women in business. Cornell participates in the Forté Fellows Program, which offers merit-based scholarships to MBA candidates who support the foundation's mission. Both men and women are eligible for consideration, and no separate application is required.
Eligibility and Requirements for Getting into Cornell MBA
The Cornell MBA eligibility & requirements are as follows:
Eligibility
- At-least 1 year of work experience highly preferred
- English Proficiency Test
100 Internet-based TOEFL (with a minimum score of 25 in each section)
7.0 band score IELTS (with a minimum score of 7.0 in the speaking and writing modules) - GMAT/GRE (GMAT average is 710 and middle 80% is 660 - 760)
Application Fees
- The application fee for the direct Cornell MBA Fees for application is $200 USD and also application fee are non-refundable.
Application Documents
- Completed online application form
- Resume
- List of activities
- Goals Statement and one required essay (a second essay is optional)
- Academic records and transcripts for all post-secondary coursework and degrees*
- GMAT or GRE score report (test waiver optional)*
- TOEFL or IELTS score report (for applicants whose first language is not English)*
- One letter of professional recommendation (a second letter is optional)
GPA | Cornell University's Johnson School of Management does not have a minimum GPA requirement for admission to its residential MBA program. However, the average GPA for admitted students is 3.3 on a 4.0 scale. Therefore, it is recommended that applicants strive to maintain a competitive GPA throughout their academic career. |
GMAT | The Johnson School of Management at Cornell University does not have a minimum Cornell MBA GMAT score requirement for admission to its residential MBA program. However, the average GMAT score for the 2024 class is 710 and the middle 80% of applicants submit GMAT scores between 660 and 760. Therefore, it is advisable for applicants to aim for a competitive GMAT score to increase their chances of admission. |
GRE | Like the GMAT, there is no minimum GRE score requirement for the Johnson School of Management's residential MBA program at Cornell University. However, GRE equivalencies are comparable to GMAT scores. Therefore, applicants should aim for a competitive GRE score to be considered for admission. |
Average Work Experience | While full-time work experience is not required for admission to the residential MBA program at the Johnson School of Management at Cornell University, students typically have completed two to five years of full-time work experience prior to enrolling. However, each application is considered on a case-by-case basis, and candidates with less work experience may still be considered if they have exceptional academic credentials or demonstrate unique qualities that align with the school's values. |
English language proficiency test scores | Yes, for applicants whose native language is not English, the Johnson School of Management at Cornell University requires a minimum score of 100 on the Internet-based TOEFL (with a minimum score of 25 in each section) or a 7.0 band score on the IELTS (with a minimum score of 7.0 in the speaking and writing modules). The TOEFL or IELTS must be taken within two years of the start of the applicant's intended matriculation date. |
Cornell MBA Deadlines
As one of the most prestigious business schools in the world, the admissions process at Johnson Cornell is highly competitive and rigorous. However, the rewards of successfully completing the program are immense, with graduates going on to have successful careers in a variety of industries. From application requirements and essay tips to interview advice and student experiences, it's also covered in this section.
Johnsons Cornell MBA Admission Process
Application steps for Cornell MBA is carried out in steps which are as follows:
- Online application: Prospective students must submit an online application through the school's website. This form asks for personal data, academic history, employment history, and essays. Additionally, applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee.
- Standardized Tests: To establish their academic competency, applicants must provide their official GMAT or GRE results. In case english is not native knowledge, then applicants need to submit their official TOEFL or IELTS scores as well.
- Transcripts: Applicants are required to produce official transcripts from their universities, even if no degree was obtained there.
- Letters of Recommendation: Candidates are required to submit two letters of recommendation from someone who can speak about their academic and professional qualifications.
- Interview: Candidates who are accepted for further consideration may be asked to take part in an interview with a member of the admissions committee, either in person or through video conference.
- Additional Materials: Depending on their experience and credentials, applicants may be needed to submit extra resources, such as a CV, a video essay or a writing sample.
When do the admissions start?
The application cycle for the Johnson Cornell MBA deadlines typically begins in early August and runs through the first week of April for the following year's cohort. The exact dates may vary slightly from year to year, and applicants are encouraged to check the school's website for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines and requirements. Here are the dates by which you need to submit your applications.
Rounds | Deadlines |
Round 1 | 20 September 2023 |
Round 2 | 10 January 2024 |
Round 3 | 10 April 2024 |
Cornell MBA Employment And Placement
The Cornell University MBA fees at the Cornell MBA program at the S.C. Johnson Graduate School of Management is known for producing graduates who are well-prepared to enter the job market. Here are three key subheadings that you need to know about the employment and placement statistics for Cornell MBA graduates:
Average Starting Salary | The MBA salary for the Two-Year MBA class of 2022 averaged at $155,048, marking a noticeable increase compared to the previous year's graduates. Graduates holding non-US work authorization earned slightly more than the Cornell MBA salary average, with a figure of $155,427, while those with US work authorization earned slightly less, recording an average of $154,853. It's essential to recognize that Cornell University salary figures can vary depending on factors such as job function, location, and industry. |
Placement Statistics | The Cornell MBA employment and placement of the 276 Two-Year MBA graduates in the class of 2022, 259 were seeking full-time employment. Within three months of graduation, 96 percent of the class had obtained a job. Graduates with US work authorization received a slightly higher percentage of offers at 97 percent, while non-US work authorization graduates received a slightly lower percentage of offers at 94 percent. The school's placement statistics demonstrate the success of its graduates in securing employment soon after graduation. |
Employment Report | The S.C. Johnson Graduate School of Management publishes an annual employment report, which provides detailed information on the employment outcomes of its MBA graduates. The report includes data on starting salaries, job functions, industries, and locations. According to the school's 2021 employment report, the most popular industries for its MBA graduates were consulting (35%), finance (27%), and technology (15%). Graduates also went on to work in industries such as consumer products, healthcare, and real estate, among others. The report is a valuable resource for prospective students and employers alike who are interested in the career outcomes of Cornell MBA graduates. |
Top Sectors Hiring Cornell MBA Graduates
Cornell University's SC Johnson Graduate School of Management provides students with a comprehensive business education that prepares them for a diverse range of career opportunities. The school's employment report for the class of 2021 reveals that Cornell MBA graduates are highly sought after by companies across a variety of industries. Here are the top sectors hiring Cornell MBA graduates with decent Cornell University MBA salary are:
Companies Recruiting from Cornell MBA
The Cornell MBA program is renowned for its academic excellence, world-class faculty, and a diverse cohort of students from various backgrounds. Graduates from Cornell's Johnson Graduate School of Management are highly sought after by a wide range of companies across diverse industries. This is because the program equips its students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experiences necessary to excel in the competitive world of business. In this article, we will delve into some of the prominent companies that actively recruit MBA graduates from Cornell University and why they value these candidates.
Here's a list of companies and firms hiring for the Cornell University's SC Johnson Graduate School of Management:
Consulting | Finance | Marketing |
Bain and Company | Bank of America | American Express |
Boston Consulting Group (BCG) | BlackRock | L'Oréal |
Deloitte | Credit Suisse | Nestlé |
Cornell MBA Alumni Info
As a recent graduate or member of the Cornell MBA, the S C Johnson College of Business provides many ways to stay engaged with Cornell MBA alumni and the university. With the significant network of alumni of Cornell MBA, you can explore vast programming and resources.
Some Famous Alumni
- Mark Bertolini, MBA ’89, former president and CEO, Aetna
- Mark Bissell, MBA ’82, CEO, Bissell Homecare, Inc.
- Jim Bridenstine, MBA ’09, the 13th administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and former U.S. Representative from Oklahoma’s 1st District
- Michael Chen, MBA ’85, general partner and CEO, Chen & Associates, vice chairman of the board at Grace Farms Foundation, and chairman of CEO Farms. Former president of strategic initiatives group at NBC News
- Anne Chow ’88, MBA ’90, CEO, AT&T Business
Application Essay for Cornell MBA
As a part of your application, to get admission into Cornell MBA application, you are required to submit one Goals statement and one essay. You can also submit an additional Optional Cornell MBA essay in order to gain an edge over other applications or if you are an applicant.
Essay 1
At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (350 words maximum)
Optional Essay
You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum).
If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Application Guide for additional information about reapplying (350 words maximum).
Tips for essays
Cornell MBA essays is a vital step in your application process. These essays provide you with a unique opportunity to communicate your aspirations and experiences to the admissions committee, allowing them to understand your potential as a student. To help you succeed in this endeavor, we've compiled essential tips for writing your Cornell MBA application essays.
- Authenticity is Key: Be yourself when writing your essay. The admissions committee values genuine and honest self-expression.
- Illustrate with Examples: Rather than merely stating your qualities and experiences, provide specific examples. This helps the reader better understand your journey.
- Align with Cornell's Values: Familiarize yourself with Cornell's core values and mission. Ensure your essay reflects how you resonate with these principles.
- Stay Within Word Limit: Adhere to the specified word limit. Each word in your essay should contribute meaningfully.
- Get Feedback: Seek feedback from trusted individuals before submitting your essay. Their insights can help refine your writing.
Letter of Recommendation for Cornell MBA
To be considered for admission to the program, applicants must submit a single recommendation letter. However, they may also provide up to two recommendations for consideration by the committee.
To obtain the most accurate information about your professional capabilities, it is advisable to solicit recommendations from people with specialized knowledge on leadership and intellectual capacities.
These may include a current supervisor, colleague, client, or former supervisor.
Interview Questions for Cornell MBA
Here is an example of types of Cornell MBA interview questions :
SET 1
Q: Why did you choose to apply to Cornell's MBA program?
Q: How have your previous experiences prepared you for an MBA?
Q: Can you discuss a time when you had to lead a team through a challenging situation?
Q: What are your short and long-term career goals?
Q: How do you plan to contribute to the Cornell MBA community?
Q: What do you think sets you apart from other candidates?
Q: Can you describe a time when you had to take a calculated risk in your professional or personal life?
Q: What motivates you to pursue a career in business?
Q: Can you discuss a time when you had to overcome a significant obstacle?
Q: How do you prioritize competing demands on your time and attention?
SET 2
Q: What led you to pursue an MBA at this point in your career?
Q: How have you demonstrated leadership in your previous roles?
Q: Can you discuss a time when you had to work effectively as part of a team?
Q: What do you hope to gain from your time at Cornell?
Q: How do you plan to apply the skills and knowledge you gain from the MBA program?
Q: Can you describe a time when you had to adapt to a new and unfamiliar environment?
Q: What are some of the challenges facing businesses today, and how do you think you can address them?
Q: How do you approach problem-solving?
Q: Can you discuss a time when you had to communicate complex ideas or information effectively?
Q: What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work, and how do they inform your perspective on business and leadership?
Tips for interview questions
The path to earning a coveted spot in the Cornell MBA program is a rigorous one, and it culminates with a crucial interview. This is your moment to shine, to showcase your potential, and to convince the admissions committee that you're a perfect fit. In this article, we'll provide invaluable tips to help you prepare for your Cornell MBA interview question, ensuring you leave a lasting impression.
- Know Your Application Inside Out: Before the interview, revisit your application thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with your essays, résumé, and recommendation letters. Expect questions based on your application, as the interview often serves to delve deeper into your experiences and aspirations.
- Research the Program: Demonstrate your genuine interest in Cornell by researching the MBA program extensively. Understand the curriculum, faculty, clubs, and unique offerings. Tailor your responses to how Cornell aligns with your career goals.
- Develop Your Personal Story: Craft a compelling personal narrative that explains your journey, motivations, and why the Cornell MBA program is integral to your future success. Your story should be authentic and memorable.
- Practice Behavioral Questions: Be ready to answer behavioral questions that explore your past actions and experiences. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, highlighting your problem-solving and leadership skills.
- Ask Thoughtful Questions: Remember, the interview is a two-way conversation. Prepare thoughtful questions about the program, campus life, or any specific concerns you may have. This shows your genuine interest and engagement.
- Simulate Mock Interviews: Practice with a trusted friend, mentor, or professional interview coach. Mock interviews can help you refine your answers and build confidence.
What Makes Cornell MBA Unique
Is Cornell MBA worth it? Cornell MBA stands out as a unique and prestigious program for several reasons:
- Diverse Community: Cornell embraces diversity and fosters a rich learning environment with students from various backgrounds, experiences, and cultures. This diversity enhances classroom discussions, collaboration, and the overall learning experience.
- Ivy League Excellence: As part of the prestigious Ivy League, Cornell University maintains a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and world-class faculty. The MBA program benefits from this legacy, offering a rigorous and intellectually stimulating education.
- Flexible Curriculum: Cornell's MBA program offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their education to their career goals and interests. Students can choose from a wide range of electives, concentrations, and dual-degree options, enabling them to create a unique educational path.
- Immersion Learning: The program emphasizes experiential learning through projects, internships, and consulting opportunities. This hands-on approach provides students with real-world business challenges, preparing them for leadership roles in the corporate world.
- Global Perspective: Cornell's MBA program has a strong focus on global business, encouraging students to think internationally and providing opportunities for global immersion experiences, study trips, and partnerships with international companies.
- Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: As part of Cornell University, students have access to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. The university encourages innovation and provides resources for aspiring entrepreneurs to launch their ventures.
- Network and Alumni Community: Cornell has a vast and influential alumni network worldwide, offering unparalleled networking opportunities and potential career connections.
- Johnson Cornell Tech MBA: Cornell also offers a unique Tech MBA program in collaboration with the Cornell Tech campus in New York City. This program focuses on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, catering to students interested in the tech industry.
Overall, the combination of academic excellence, diverse community, flexible curriculum, and strong emphasis on experiential learning makes Cornell MBA a distinctive and highly sought-after program for aspiring business leaders.
Conclusion
The MBA program at Cornell provides a world-class education to aspiring business professionals. With its highly esteemed faculty, innovative curriculum, and unrivaled networking opportunities, the Cornell MBA (one of the best MBA colleges in USA) is an ideal choice for those looking to take their career to the next level, the program also offers students a variety of resources, such as access to top employers and personalized career coaching, to ensure they are fully prepared for their future. Prepare your application with MiM-Essay to strengthen your chances and get into your dream school.