UCLA MBA Scholarships: Your Guide to Financial Aid

Pursuing an MBA at UCLA Anderson School of Management is a significant investment in your future. Recognized as one of the top business schools globally, UCLA Anderson offers a wide range of scholarships to help students reduce the financial burden of their MBA education. From merit-based fellowships to specific scholarships aimed at fostering diversity and leadership, these financial aid opportunities ensure that talented candidates can focus on their academic and professional growth.

Whether you’re an international student or a U.S. citizen, understanding the available scholarships and how to maximize your chances can make a huge difference in managing your educational costs.

Why Scholarships Matter for MBA Students

The cost of an MBA program at top-tier institutions has seen a steady rise over the years. The Estimated budget for a full-time UCLA MBA program in 2025-2026, including tuition, living expenses, books, and other costs, exceeds $125,000, this financial burden can be overwhelming for many students, making scholarships a crucial lifeline.

Scholarships do more than just ease financial stress they also provide recognition for academic and leadership excellence. For many students, securing a scholarship is not only about affordability but also about validating their hard work and dedication. Scholarships also create opportunities for students who may not have the financial means to pursue their education at prestigious institutions, ensuring that the most talented students, regardless of their financial background, can access top-tier education.

Most UCLA Anderson students use a mix of fellowships and loans to cover their educational costs. Incoming students are automatically considered for merit-based and donor fellowships during the admission process, with no regard to race, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity. Additionally, second-year students can apply for positions as graduate teaching assistants (TAs) or research assistants (RAs) to supplement their funding. Further financial support is available through the UCLA Graduate Division, offering additional options for covering expenses.

Types of Scholarships Available at UCLA Anderson

UCLA Anderson offers a wide range of scholarships to both incoming and current students. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement.

Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievements and leadership qualities. These scholarships are typically granted at the time of admission, with no separate application required. The UCLA Anderson Fellowship Committee evaluates students’ applications and selects recipients based on their overall academic performance, leadership roles, and potential to contribute to the MBA community.

Donor Fellowships

Generously funded by UCLA alumni, corporations, and individual donors, Donor Fellowships are another form of financial aid available to students. These fellowships are awarded based on specific criteria set by the donors, which can include professional goals, intended career paths, financial need, or contributions to the community. Donor fellowships provide essential financial support while recognizing students who exemplify the values of the donor organizations​

Second-Year Fellowships

For students who perform exceptionally well during their first year, UCLA Anderson offers second-year fellowships. These scholarships are based on a student’s academic performance, involvement in the Anderson community, and leadership initiatives. Recipients of these fellowships often demonstrate exceptional dedication to both their studies and the broader UCLA Anderson ecosystem.

Scholarships for Indian Students

Indian students represent a growing and significant part of UCLA Anderson’s diverse international student body. With a range of scholarship options available, Indian students have several opportunities to finance their MBA at UCLA Anderson. Let’s explore the key scholarships and financial aid programs that cater specifically to Indian students:

Consortium Fellowships

Indian students who are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion are encouraged to apply for The Consortium Fellowship. The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management is a collaboration between leading business schools and corporations aimed at enhancing diversity in business leadership. UCLA Anderson is a proud member of this initiative, and through this fellowship, Indian students can potentially receive full tuition coverage for the duration of their MBA program. The fellowship selection is based on demonstrated leadership, commitment to community service, and diversity initiatives​

While the Consortium Fellowship is highly competitive, it offers Indian students a chance to gain access to a strong professional network and mentorship opportunities. It also encourages future business leaders to engage in diversity and equity programs, both during and after their MBA journey.

External Scholarships

Indian students looking to pursue their MBA at UCLA Anderson can also take advantage of external scholarships that offer significant financial aid. Some of the prominent external scholarships for Indian students include:

• J.N. Tata Endowment for Higher Education: One of the oldest and most prestigious scholarships for Indian students, the J.N. Tata Endowment offers financial assistance to students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad, including MBA programs. Selected candidates may receive loan scholarships at competitive interest rates, with the possibility of receiving partial grants based on their academic performance​
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation: This foundation provides scholarships to outstanding Indian students to study abroad, including at institutions like UCLA Anderson. The scholarships are awarded to candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic and professional achievements, as well as leadership potential. Inlaks offers full or partial funding to cover tuition, living expenses, and other associated costs for MBA students​
• Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation: Another key scholarship for Indian students, the Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation provides interest-free loan scholarships to students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad. MBA students at UCLA Anderson can apply for this scholarship, which covers tuition and other academic expenses. The foundation selects candidates based on their academic performance, leadership qualities, and future potential​

Applying for these external scholarships requires additional effort, but they provide substantial financial support for Indian students who wish to pursue an MBA at UCLA Anderson.

Private Loan Options

In addition to scholarships, Indian students can explore private loan options to finance their MBA. Many international students, including those from India, rely on private loans, which offer flexible repayment terms and competitive interest rates. Private loans are an attractive option for students who may not qualify for federal loans or scholarships.

Some key points to consider about private loans:

• Co-Signer Requirement: For Indian students, many private loan providers may require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to co-sign the loan. However, some lenders do not require a co-signer, making it easier for international students to secure funding​
• Flexible Repayment Plans: Private loans offer various repayment options, including deferred payment plans where students begin repaying the loan after graduation. Students can also choose income-based repayment plans, ensuring that the repayment terms are aligned with their post-graduation income​

By combining UCLA MBA scholarships, external scholarships, and private loans, Indian students can create a robust financial plan to support their MBA journey, ensuring that finances don’t hinder their academic and career ambitions.

How to Maximize UCLA Anderson MBA Scholarship Chances

Securing a scholarship at UCLA Anderson is a highly competitive process, and applicants need to present a well-rounded profile that goes beyond just academic achievements. A strong UCLA Anderson MBA GMAT score can significantly enhance your application, as it demonstrates your academic capabilities and readiness for the program. Here are several key strategies that can further improve your chances of being awarded a scholarship:

1. Demonstrate Academic Excellence

Academic performance is a major factor when applying for merit-based scholarships at UCLA Anderson. These scholarships are awarded based on the strength of your application and academic achievements. Therefore, maintaining a high GPA and excelling in standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE is essential. UCLA Anderson places a strong emphasis on applicants who show consistent academic excellence throughout their academic careers.

• Key Action: Highlight any academic awards, high GPAs, and strong GMAT/GRE scores. Make sure to mention any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your expertise in your field.
• Important Note: The higher your academic performance, the more competitive your scholarship application becomes. UCLA Anderson automatically considers applicants for scholarships based on their admissions applications, so excelling in academics increases your chances from the outset​ UCLA Anderson School of Management.

2. Showcase Leadership and Community Involvement

Beyond academics, leadership potential, and community engagement are highly valued by UCLA Anderson. The school seeks students who have a proven track record of leadership, both in their professional careers and in extracurricular activities. Whether it’s leading teams at work, initiating projects, or contributing to your community through volunteer efforts, these experiences make your application stand out.

• Key Action: Highlight leadership roles you’ve held at work, in school organizations, or in community groups. Emphasize any projects where you took the initiative, led a team, or made a significant impact.

Example

Volunteering for community initiatives, leading professional groups, or contributing to diversity and inclusion efforts can demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact. These activities align well with UCLA Anderson’s goals of fostering leadership and social responsibility​ at UCLA Anderson School of Management.

• Important Note: UCLA Anderson places a high value on applicants who are not only academically strong but also contribute to the community and are capable of driving change through leadership​

3. Apply Early

Timing can be a critical factor in securing UCLA MBA scholarships. Some scholarships are offered on a rolling basis, while others have early deadlines. Submitting your MBA application early gives you an advantage because it shows your enthusiasm and ensures your eligibility for a wider range of financial aid options.

• Key Action: Aim to submit your MBA application in the earliest possible rounds. Applying early gives you a greater chance of being considered for merit-based scholarships, as many awards are distributed during the first rounds of admission​at UCLA Anderson School of Management.
• Important Note: Many merit-based scholarships do not require a separate application, and students are automatically considered during the admissions process. However, applying early increases your chances of receiving these scholarships before the allocated funds are exhausted.

4. Explore External Scholarships

In addition to UCLA Anderson’s internal scholarships, it’s beneficial to apply for external scholarships. Several foundations and organizations offer scholarships to MBA students, particularly international students, to help them pursue their studies abroad. Many of these external scholarships are highly competitive, but they can provide substantial financial aid.

Key External Scholarships to Consider:

• J.N. Tata Endowment: Provides scholarships for Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad. This includes MBA programs, and the scholarship offers both loan and partial grant options based on academic performance​UCLA Anderson School of Management
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation: Offers full or partial scholarships to Indian students who exhibit exceptional talent and leadership potential, including those pursuing an MBA at top global institutions like UCLA Anderson
• Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation: Provides interest-free loan scholarships to Indian students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad, including MBA programs. This scholarship focuses on academic excellence and leadership potential​ at UCLA Anderson School of Management
  .
  Research and apply for external scholarships early, as their deadlines may vary. These scholarships can significantly reduce your financial burden and supplement the internal financial aid provided by UCLA Anderson.

5. Tailor Your Application

While UCLA Anderson automatically considers applicants for most scholarships based on their MBA applications, it’s important to tailor your application to highlight qualities that scholarship committees look for. This includes not only academic achievements but also a clear demonstration of leadership, community engagement, and long-term career goals that align with the values of the scholarship programs.

• Key Action: In your personal essays and recommendation letters, focus on showcasing your leadership experiences, career aspirations, and commitment to making a meaningful impact in your community. Be specific about how an MBA from UCLA Anderson will help you achieve your professional goals.
• Example: If you’re applying for a specific fellowship like the Forté Fellowship, which supports women leaders, emphasize your leadership journey, your professional goals, and how you plan to contribute to the advancement of women in business ​at UCLA Anderson School of Management.

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Conclusion

UCLA MBA scholarships provide students with the financial support necessary to pursue a world-class education. As one of the top MBA colleges in USA, UCLA offers various funding options, from merit-based fellowships to specific scholarships like Forté and ROMBA, designed to alleviate the cost of an MBA. By applying early, demonstrating leadership, and exploring all available financial aid options, students can unlock their potential at UCLA Anderson without the stress of overwhelming financial burdens.