Table of Contents

Introduction

The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University is one of the premier business schools in the U.S., known for its strong culture of collaboration, leadership development, and global outlook. The Full-Time MBA program typically spans around 20 months, includes a summer internship, and emphasizes experiential learning, team projects, and cross-disciplinary exposure.

To ensure your application is considered effectively, knowing the Kellogg MBA Deadlines is crucial. Applying early can help you with interview scheduling, financial aid opportunities, and visa processing (for international students).

🎓 Program Length: 20 months (with summer internship) | 🌍 Location: Evanston / Chicago, Illinois, USA   | 💼 Application Rounds: 3 | 🧠 Decision Dates: December, March, May

Kellogg MBA Deadlines 2025–2026 (Round-wise Table)

🎯 Round 📅 Application Deadline ✅ Decision Notification
Round 1 September 10, 2025 December 10, 2025
Round 2 January 7, 2026 March 25, 2026
Round 3 April 1, 2026 May 13, 2026

⚡ Pro tip: Applying in Round 1 or 2 is advisable—these rounds often provide better access to scholarships, more flexibility for interviews, and smoother visa processing (for international applicants).

Which Round Should You Apply To?

Kellogg MBA Deadlines

The ideal round depends on how ready your application components are, your financial aid goals, and whether you're an international applicant needing visa time.

Round 1 (September 10, 2025): For those who have everything ready—essay, recommendations, test scores—and want early certainty.

Round 2 (January 7, 2026): The most popular round. Allows more time to polish your profile or retake standardized tests.

Round 3 (April 1, 2026): Typically, a last chance. Lower scholarship pool, but still worth applying if your profile is strong.

For international candidates, early rounds are recommended to ensure adequate time for visa processing.

Tips to Stay on Track with Kellogg MBA Deadlines

Here are strategies to help you manage the Kellogg MBA application timeline:

  • ✅ Start early: Brainstorm essays and gather transcripts at least 5–6 months in advance.
  • 🧠 Schedule GMAT/GRE early: Aim to finish testing well before your target round to allow for retakes.
  • ✍️ Iterate essays & resume: Seek feedback from mentors, peers, or coaches.
  • ⏰ Track deadlines: Use calendar reminders for submitting, following up, and interview stages.
  • 🔔 Check Kellogg’s admissions site regularly: To catch any updates or policy changes.

What Happens After You Submit Your Application?

Once you submit your application, here’s roughly what to expect:

  • 1. Acknowledgment & Portal Access: You’ll receive confirmation and credentials to monitor your application status.
  • 2. Review Process: The admissions team evaluates your transcripts, essays, test scores, letters, and video essays.
  • 3. Interview Invitation: Shortlisted applicants are invited to interviews (often alumni or staff). Kellogg has a tradition of interviewing a large portion of applicants.
  • 4. Decision Release: Decisions are published on the dates listed in each round’s table above.
  • 5. Post-Decision Steps: If accepted, you’ll confirm enrollment, submit deposit (date given in your offer letter), begin visa (if applicable), housing, etc.

Conclusion

Applying to the Kellogg Full-Time MBA demands planning, clarity in your narrative, and timely completion of all components. By leveraging the deadlines above, aiming for earlier rounds, and steadily refining your profile, you increase your chances—not just of acceptance, but of securing financial aid and smoother logistics.