ABOUT FULL-TIME MBA
Introduction to Admissions
Earning an MBA from the Merage School is more than a career step—it’s a strategic investment in your future. Join a thriving community at one of the world’s leading research universities while enjoying life in the safest large city in the United States. Our Full-Time MBA program equips early to mid-career professionals with the tools, network, and credibility to unlock new leadership opportunities in a rapidly evolving global economy.
International Students
Global Opportunities
Master in-demand skills and benefit from living in the heart of Southern California’s Tech Coast. The Full-Time MBA program’s STEM designation allows qualifying international graduates to apply for an optional practical training (OPT) visa extension. Launch your dreams right here.
Why Choose Us
Benefits of the Full-Time MBA
Learn From a Globally Recognized Faculty and Industry Experts
Pursue Exclusive Internship Opportunities at Major Companies
Access Career Resources and the Merage School Alumni Network
One-Third of Full-Time MBA Students are International
It’s been a great experience so far. It’s not a move I regret taking. The small class size allows you to interact with your professor and career service office one-on-one. You can also build genuine connections with your classmates.
Eniola Adaramola MBA ‘26
WHAT YOU NEED
Application Requirements
Admission to the Paul Merage School of Business is granted to individuals with a strong academic background holding an undergraduate degree from a recognized institution. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic performance and leadership potential, as demonstrated through their submitted application materials.
Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended to earn an undergraduate degree (with English translation if applicable)
Two recommendations
Two essays (one video and one written). Applicants may submit a third optional essay.
Résumé
Official TOEFL or IELTS score (International students, if applicable)
$150 non-refundable application fee. We offer fee waivers for Military and Veterans.
Interview by invitation only
GMAT/GMAT Focus or GRE Testing
While test scores provide an additional, relevant data point for the admissions committee to consider, a test score is not required. It is up to the applicant to decide if they want to apply with or without test scores. Please note that for applicants without a quantitative background, a strong test score can strengthen their candidacy. For an idea of the typical test score range of admitted students, see our latest class profile.
If you choose to submit a test score:
There is no advantage to taking one exam over the other. If you take an exam multiple times, we will take the highest total score that you obtained on that exam. The Admissions Committee does not average exam scores. While there is no minimum GMAT or GRE score to apply, we do expect that applicants will have an overall competitive profile. Test scores are valid for up to five years from your test date.
Official GRE Score: Exam results should be sent to UC Irvine institution code: 4859. For more information on the GRE, visit: ets.org/gre
Official GMAT/GMAT Focus Score: Exam results should be sent to UC Irvine institution code: 0DP-7R-16. For more information on the GMAT, visit: mba.com
If you choose NOT to submit a test score:
You will need to demonstrate how your academic and professional experiences have properly prepared you for the rigors of the FTMBA program. You must submit an essay that provides evidence of your MBA readiness to support your case of applying without a test score. We will evaluate full-time professional work experience and a strong record of academic performance as an undergraduate or master’s student, looking closely at your past accomplishments, including but not limited to:
- An advanced degree (Graduate or professional degree)
- Professional certifications with a quantitative focus (CPA, CFA, or other certification)
- Strong performance in previous analytical or quantitative coursework or employment
- U.S military personnel
Applicants should consider a number of factors before submitting a GMAT/GRE waiver request including their overall candidate profile. Test scores are often a beneficial data point considered by the Admissions Committee when determining merit-based scholarships. There are some employers who may request a GMAT/GRE score as part of their MBA hiring screening process. This is particularly true in industries such as consulting or finance. Candidates are encouraged to consider all factors before submitting a GMAT/GRE test waiver request.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Empower Your Career
100%
All interested MBA students typically secure summer internships.
91%
Percentage of graduates who secure employment within six months.
117%
Average salary increase from pre-MBA to three years post-graduation.
WHAT IT TAKES
Diverse Student Body
The Admissions Committee seeks to create a dynamic and diverse class with students who will make a unique contribution to the Full-Time MBA experience. Your colleagues will be a source of inspiration and learning opportunities. Students enrolled in the program represent a broad spectrum of academic, professional and personal backgrounds. We invite you to join our exceptional community.
GO FURTHER, FASTER
Dual Degree Programs
Students who are already enrolled in the UC Irvine School of Law or School of Medicine may also apply to the Full-Time MBA program. Participants in the JD/MBA and MD/MBA programs are required to complete a minimum of 76 MBA units (4 quarters) in addition to the coursework of their respective disciplines. Contact us to learn how tuition fees differ for dual-degree students.
ABOUT THE JD/MBA PROGRAM
ABOUT THE MD/MBA PROGRAM
APPLY ON TIME
Deadlines
Applications are submitted online and reviewed on a rolling basis, with the round deadlines provided as a guideline. It is your responsibility to ensure that all components of your application are complete by the deadline for timely review. Incomplete applications will automatically be considered in the next round.
Once your completed application is submitted, you can expect a decision within two months. All applicants are automatically considered for scholarships. Submitting your application early generally improves your chances of receiving a scholarship if you qualify.
International students must submit all materials, including letters of recommendation, by their applicable deadline to ensure timely visa processing.
Application Deadlines
Round 1
October 15
Round 2
January 15
Round 3
March 1 (Recommended deadline for international students studying outside of the U.S.)
Round 4
May 1
Expected Decision Release Dates
Round 1
December 12
Round 2
March 13
Round 3
May 1
Round 4
June 5
CONNECT WITH US
Have a Question?
Our advisors are here to guide you through the process. Connect with us today and discover how UC Irvine’s Full-Time MBA program can be the catalyst for an impactful career.
Want to hear more about scholarships, programs, and updates?
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