About Duke
Duke’s Fuqua MBA program is consistently ranked as one of the top business schools in the country. Many people consider Duke for its experiential learning and global opportunities as well as its inclusive student body. The school believes in having a collaborative, immersive, and diverse culture that focuses on developing skills for long-term success. With over 16 different concentrations and 100+ electives to choose from, Fuqua gives its students the ability to choose opportunities that suit their career goals. The school’s alumni network has produced big names in the business like Melinda Gates (co-founder of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation), Tim Cook (CEO of Apple, Inc.), and Brian Derksen (deputy CEO of Deloitte). So what does it take to get accepted to this competitive program?
What is the Duke Fuqua Program Looking For?
The Fuqua MBA admissions committee looks for potential students who exemplify leadership, a strong desire to contribute to society, and high ethical standards. The school talks about the “decency quotient” which basically means they are looking for decent human beings instead of profit-maximizing, money-hungry individuals. While other schools tend to focus more on test scores and analytics, Duke focuses on getting quality candidates that are not only intelligent but caring and empathetic as well.
Be ready to answer the question, “What can you contribute to the class?”
Duke selects students for its MBA program that will fit the school’s culture. Their students have a genuine desire to help others achieve their potential, in turn making them great leaders. The school has close ties with employers who share these values for post-MBA recruiting.
Duke (Fuqua) MBA Admission Requirements
According to www.clearadmit.com, the Fuqua MBA Admission Rate is 22%. The most recent class had only 408 students enrolled and, on average, the school receives around 1,850 applications. Take a look at the most current statistics to see what it takes to have a competitive application:
Students come from many different industries including Financial Services, Consulting, Health Services, Analytics, and Nonprofit/Education. There are over 44 countries represented and 46% of the most recent class is female.
With such a competitive admissions environment, we strongly recommend considering using our professional MBA application consulting services.
Duke MBA Application
Students are evaluated on their Duke Fuqua business school application as a whole. Let’s take a look at some important parts of the application:
1. GMAT/GRE Scores
Fuqua accepts GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) scores and they do not have a preference as to which test you should take. Again, the typical GMAT score for Fuqua falls between 660 and 740. While these statistics are important in determining analytical aptitude and readiness for the program, there is a wide range of acceptable scores.
2. Video Statement
Duke has several essay questions on their MBA application. The first is a short answer essay asking “What are your post-MBA goals?”
The other two essay questions are as follows:
- 25 Random things about yourself (these should be life experiences, fun facts, hobbies, etc)
- 3 ways you will contribute at Fuqua
There is also an optional essay if you would like to explain anything to the admissions committee or talk about something that was not addressed elsewhere in the application.
3. Interview
All applicants are eligible to interview during the Open Interview Period. If you do not interview during this open time period, you will only be asked to interview if the admissions team deems your application to be competitive. Interviews are conducted by members of the MBA admissions committee, alumni, or a current second-year student. The interview is a time not only for the admissions team to learn about you but for you to learn about the school as well.
The interviewer will be looking for the following:
- Leadership potential
- Career progression
- Passions/goals
- Contributions you could make to the class
Letter of Recommendation
You are required to submit one letter of recommendation. If you wish, you may submit an additional letter of recommendation as well as any endorsements from Fuqua students and alums. When selecting your recommenders, the school asks that one recommendation reflect your performance in your current professional setting. You need to be sure your recommenders know you well and can attest to your work ethic and accomplishments.
The MBA experience at Duke is one filled with collaboration and respect. Team Fuqua, as it is affectionately known, is the school’s term for camaraderie amongst students. It is a way of thinking and the ability to draw out strengths in others to move a team forward. The school prides itself on cultivating a culture of engagement, providing opportunities for personal growth. While the class profile changes from year to year, the Duke MBA admissions committee looks to find a diverse student body which can push excellence in themselves as well as their classmates.
The Fuqua MBA application process can be overwhelming. When you are applying to such a competitive school, it is imperative that your application stand out and you are able to showcase your talent and leadership capability.
Solomon admissions consultants can help! See our acceptance rates here:
Check Out the Top MBA Acceptance Rates
For more information about the Duke Business School application process, reach out to us via any of the contact options below.