When you’re aiming for one of the world’s top MBA programs, your first question might be, “What are my chances?” If Wharton is on your list, you’re not alone. The Wharton MBA acceptance rate is a key concern for many applicants. As part of the University of Pennsylvania, the Wharton School of Business is renowned for its challenging academics, strong alumni network, and the vast opportunities it offers. But what does it take to get in?
The Wharton School of Business acceptance rate is around 20%, meaning about 20 out of every 100 applicants are accepted. While this number might seem intimidating, it’s important to remember that acceptance rates are just statistics. What really matters is how you present yourself—your experiences, leadership skills, and how you tell your unique story.
Wharton isn’t just any business school; it’s one of the best. Ranked No. 1 (tie) out of 124 in Best Business Schools by U.S. News & World Report, Wharton has consistently excelled across various measures. With an overall score of 100 and impressive employment rates—83.9% of graduates employed at graduation and 94.2% three months after—Wharton clearly stands out.
The good news? Getting into Wharton is possible. Thousands have done it before, and with the right preparation, so can you. In the next sections, we’ll explore what you need to know about Wharton’s acceptance rate and how to improve your chances of joining this prestigious program.
Quick Stats: Wharton Business School MBA
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
- Average GMAT: 728
- Average GPA: 3.6
- Average Years of Work Experience: 5
Breaking Down the Wharton MBA Acceptance Rate
With a sizable MBA class of 874 students for the Class of 2025, Wharton offers a robust program with diverse opportunities. Despite its prestigious status, the admission process is somewhat less competitive compared to Harvard Business School (HBS) or Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), with an acceptance rate of 25% for the Class of 2025.
Wharton’s MBA program has long been celebrated for its strength in finance, but today it attracts a wide array of professionals. For the Class of 2025, consulting leads as the most common background at 27%, followed by private equity and venture capital (PE/VC) at 14%, and technology at 12%. Interestingly, those from non-profit or government sectors slightly outnumber those from investment banking, with a representation of 10% versus 9%. This variety underscores Wharton’s commitment to fostering a diverse and dynamic student body.
[See the comprehensive breakdown in the tables later in this blog for an easy reference.]
What Wharton Looks For in Applicants
Wharton values applicants with solid work experience, strong quantitative skills, and a demonstrated upward career trajectory. The school seeks individuals who have not only excelled in their roles but have also shown rapid career progression and significant contributions in their fields. Ideal candidates are those who have stood out in their organizations and are expected to thrive in Wharton’s vibrant, multifaceted community. This is what they look for:
- Leadership Potential
- Proven track record of leadership in professional or personal life
- Ability to inspire and lead others
- Strong Work Experience
- At least 2-3 years of professional experience
- Diverse backgrounds and experiences are valued
- Intellectual Curiosity
- Passion for learning and taking on new challenges
- Demonstrated intellectual curiosity in past experiences
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Effective team player
- Collaborative problem-solving skills
- Communicative Skills
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities
- Adaptability
- Ability to adapt to new situations and cope with change
- Entrepreneurial Mindset
- Willingness to take risks and create new opportunities
- Global Perspective
- International experience and comfort with different cultures
- Interest in global business issues
- Ethical Awareness
- Sense of social and environmental responsibility
- Understanding of business’s role in society
- Strong Academic Background
- Good GPA and GMAT/GRE scores
Wharton MBA Class Profile 2025
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania has assembled yet another diverse and highly accomplished MBA class for 2025. Here’s a look at the key statistics that highlight the makeup of this prestigious group.
Enrollment Overview
| Wharton MBA Class of 2025 | Data |
| Applications Received | 6,194 |
| Enrolled Students | 874 |
| Women | 50% |
| International Students | 31% |
| Countries Represented | 70 |
| LGBTQ+ Representation | 11% |
| First-Generation Students | 11% |
U.S. Race & Ethnicity Distribution
| U.S. Race & Ethnicity | Federal Guidelines | Multi-Dimensional |
| Black/African American | 9% | 10% |
| Hispanic/Latinx | 7% | 7% |
| Native American | 0% | 2% |
| Asian American | 21% | 23% |
| White | 27% | 32% |
| Multi-Race | 4% | N/A |
Academic Excellence Overview
| Academic Background & Test Scores | Data |
| Average GMAT Score | 728 |
| Average GRE Scores | 162 Verbal, 162 Quant |
| Average GPA | 3.6 |
Undergraduate Backgrounds
| Data | Value |
| Humanities | 40% |
| STEM | 33% |
| Business | 27% |
Professional Experience Overview
| Data | Value |
| Average Work Experience | 5 years |
| Consulting | 27% |
| Venture Capital/Private Equity | 14% |
| Technology | 12% |
| Nonprofit/Government | 10% |
| Investment Banking | 9% |
| Financial Services | 7% |
| Health Care | 5% |
| Investment Management | 3% |
| CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) | 2% |
| Real Estate | 2% |
| Retail | 1% |
| Energy | 1% |
| Media/Entertainment | 1% |
Interdisciplinary & Dual Degree Programs
| Interdisciplinary & Dual Degree Programs | Number of Students |
| Carey JD/MBA | 16 |
| Lauder MBA/MA | 70 |
| Health Care Management MBA | 73 |
| Moelis Advance Access (Deferred Admission) | 57 |
Wharton MBA: Your Top Questions Answered
Is a Wharton MBA hard to get into?
Getting into Wharton’s MBA program is challenging but not impossible. With an acceptance rate of about 25%, the competition is fierce, yet it’s not as exclusive as some other top schools. Successful candidates typically have a GMAT score above 700, but Wharton does consider applicants with lower scores if their overall profile is strong. If you present a well-rounded application with solid professional achievements and a compelling personal narrative, you could stand a good chance of being admitted.
What GPA do you need for a Wharton MBA?
For a Wharton MBA, the average GPA of admitted students is around 3.6. While there isn’t a strict GPA cutoff, having a strong academic record helps. If your GPA is below this average but you have other exceptional qualifications, such as impressive work experience or high test scores, you could still be a competitive applicant.
Can I get into Wharton MBA with a 3.3 GPA?
To maximize your chances of getting into Wharton’s MBA program, it’s ideal to have a strong academic record, including a GPA of 3.65 or higher. While a 3.3 GPA is below the average, a high GMAT score of 750+ or a GRE score of 328+ can significantly strengthen your application. Emphasizing other aspects of your profile, such as impressive work experience and strong leadership skills, can also help offset a lower GPA.
How much does an MBA at Wharton cost?
Pursuing an MBA at the Wharton School involves significant financial investment. For the academic year 2023-2024, here is a detailed breakdown of the costs for the Wharton MBA program:
First-Year Costs:
- Tuition and Fees (including Pre-Term): $87,370
- Room and Board: $26,028
- Books, Supplies, Miscellaneous: $6,868
- Health Insurance: $4,210
- Total: $124,476
Second-Year Costs:
- Tuition and Fees: $85,370
- Room and Board: $26,028
- Books, Supplies, Miscellaneous: $6,868
- Health Insurance: $4,210
- Total: $122,476
Overall, the cost of the Wharton MBA program can be substantial, but it’s important to consider potential financial aid and scholarships that may help offset these expenses.
Tips to Get into Wharton by MBA House
Getting into Wharton is competitive, but with careful planning and preparation, you can enhance your chances. Here’s a step-by-step guide to strengthen your application:
- Assess Your Baseline Scores
- Check your GPA, GMAT/GRE scores, and work experience against Wharton’s averages:
- Average GPA: 3.6
- Average GMAT: 733
- Average GRE Quant & Verbal: 162 each
- Average Work Experience: 5 years
- Check your GPA, GMAT/GRE scores, and work experience against Wharton’s averages:
- Do Your Research
- Understand Wharton’s admissions philosophy (“Read to Admit”)
- Visit the Wharton MBA website, review profiles of current students and alumni
- Attend information sessions or webinars
- Talk to current students and alumni
- Research faculty, clubs, student groups, and career services
- Create Impeccable Essays
- Essay 1: How will the Wharton MBA help achieve your professional goals? (500 words)
- Essay 2: How will you contribute to the Wharton community? (400 words)
- Reapplicant Essay: How have you grown since your previous application? (250 words)
- Optional Essay: Share any additional information or address any weaknesses (500 words)
- Be specific, authentic, and tailor your essays to Wharton
- Proofread and stick to word limits
- Create a Strong Resume and Secure Strong Recommendations
- Resume Tips:
- Single page
- Highlight leadership and accomplishments
- Follow Wharton’s formatting guidelines
- Recommendation Tips:
- Obtain two recommendations from people who know your work well
- Address Wharton’s prompts in detail
- Resume Tips:
- Prepare for the Wharton Team-Based Discussion Interview
- Before the Interview:
- Prepare a complete pitch
- Practice teamwork and group discussion skills
- Ensure good Zoom setup (headphones, lighting, background)
- During the Interview:
- Stay on topic and time your pitch
- Engage actively with the team
- Prepare for the personal interview segment
- Before the Interview:
Final Thoughts
These tips are just the start of your journey to Wharton; a dream school for ambitious individuals seeking unparalleled business education. The Class of 2025 exemplifies the diversity and excellence that defines Wharton, while insights from the Class of 2023 highlight the program’s profound impact on career trajectories.
At MBA House, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate every step with confidence. Our all-inclusive service ensures you receive unlimited support, from answering your questions to refining your essays and preparing for interviews. We’re committed to your success and provide everything you need to excel in your application process.
Ready to take the next step? As Walt Disney said, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” Visit our website or contact us at [email protected].
Let’s make your Wharton dream a reality together!
