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Jason Sissel '07
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Endure to Cure

Kellogg Executive MBA Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Executive MBA Program Frequently Asked Questions

Information Sessions
- Why should I attend an information session rather than an interview as my first exposure to the program?
- Where can I sign up for an upcoming information session?
Admissions Requirements
- What if I don’t have the required 8 years of work experience?
- Do I need to take the GMAT?
- Is it possible to apply without currently being employed?
- Is it possible to be admitted without a university degree?
- Admissions Decisions
  - What does the committee consider when reviewing applications?
  - When will I be notified of the admissions decision?
  - Can I get my application reviewed early if I am waiting to hear from another school?
  - If my application is rejected, may I reapply or discuss my decision in person?
  - Can I defer admission?
- Enrollment
  - How much is the confirmation of enrollment deposit?
  - Is there an orientation before classes begin?
  - Does the Kellogg EMBA accept credits from other institutions?
  - What are the main differences between a full-time MBA program and the Executive MBA?
  - What are the main differences between a part-time MBA program and the Executive MBA?
  - How long does the program take?
  - What degree will I earn?
- Interviewing
  - Is an interview required?
  - When can I interview and what can I expect in an interview?
  - How do I get to the Executive MBA campuses in Evanston and Miami for my interview?
  - Why should I attend an information session rather than an interview as my first exposure to the program?
- Financial Aid and Sponsorship
  - Is there an application fee?
  - How much is the confirmation of enrollment deposit?
  - Do I need a laptop computer and what is the cost?
  - Do I have to be financially sponsored to be accepted to the program?
  - What should be the content of the company sponsorship letter?
  - How much is tuition?
  - If I decide to withdraw from the program will the tuition be refunded?
  - When is tuition due?
  - If I am not fully financially sponsored by my employer, what financial aid options do I have?
  - Do you provide financial aid for international students?
- International Students
  - Is there additional material that I need to include since I did not graduate from an English speaking university?
  - My transcripts are international and difficult to obtain, do you need official copies?
  - If I am an international student and am accepted, does Northwestern University have an International office?
  - What is the minimum TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score required for an international applicant?
  - Do you provide financial aid for international students?
- About the Program
  - How long does the program take?
  - What degree will I earn?
  - How many credits do I take and how many of those are electives?
  - Are there electives and where can I see a sample listing of courses?
  - Can I major in a particular subject?
  - When do we receive our course materials and books?
  - Does the Kellogg Executive MBA program use case studies?
  - How are the students divided into study groups?
  - How many hours can I expect to spend studying each week?
  - In addition to traveling to Kellogg, is there other travel?
  - What is the Allen Center like?
  - What is the Miami campus like?
  - Is this a distance learning program?
- Other
  - I am having trouble logging in to the online application, do you have any suggestions?
  - What is an EMP class?
  - Do you have an alumni network?
  - Do you offer career management services?
  - Do I need a laptop computer and what is the cost?
  Information Sessions
  Why should I attend an information session rather than an interview as my first exposure to the program?
  The sessions are a great way to meet our directors and become better acquainted with the program. In general, current students (and occasionally faculty) attend and are available for questions at the reception that follows the presentation. Speaking with current students at an information session is definitely one of the best ways to better understand the ins and outs of the program. Information sessions are a crucial part of the decision-making process in submitting an application – visiting the campus, learning about the different Kellogg programs, and talking with our students and directors. You can register for a session online at: http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/Programs/EMBA/TakeAction/InformationSession.aspx.
  
  Where can I sign up for an upcoming information session?
  Please register online at:
  http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/Programs/EMBA/TakeAction/InformationSession.aspx
  
  Admissions
  
  Admission Requirements
  
  What if I don’t have the required 8 years of work experience?
  The applicant pool is competitive, so 8 or more years of solid work experience is highly advised before applying to the program. Most of our students have between 12 – 15 years of work experience. In the full-time and part-time programs the average work experience is 4 – 5 years. In order to get a better idea of which program is right for you, we recommend that you attend an information session for each program and/or review the requirements for each program.
  
  Do I need to take the GMAT?
  Applicants who do not have the U.S. equivalence of a Bachelors degree are required to take the GMAT. After review of the application in committee, the admission committee may advise applicants to take a GMAT to strengthen their application.
  
  Is it possible to apply without currently being employed?
  No, the program is designed for those who are employed full-time.
  
  Is it possible to be admitted without a university degree?
  Nearly all of our students have a university degree, but those who do not are required to take the GMAT examination.
  
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  Application Process
  
  What are the required materials that need to accompany the application?
  All candidates for admission to the Executive MBA program must visit
  http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/Programs/EMBA.aspx to apply. A complete application for admission consists of the application itself, two letters of recommendation, honor code pledge, official transcripts (including transcript evaluation for international transcripts), a completed interview and a letter of sponsorship from the appropriate officer in the applicant’s organization.
  
  Will you review my resume or partial application before I apply via phone or email?
  We do not schedule private phone conversations, resume reviews, or meetings to discuss your candidacy for the program. As a part of the application process, you are required to have an interview with one of our directors. The only way we really can make sure we are getting the full picture of you as an applicant and vice versa is by going through the full application process– paying close attention to the fact that you need to feel that the program is the best fit for you and you are competitive for admission. Attending an information session is highly advisable before applying.
  
  What are the application deadlines?
  Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and admissions decisions are made within 30 days of receipt of the completed application. Please keep in mind that there are limited seats available and early application is advisable.
  
  Is the online application the only way to apply?
  Yes, we only accept applications online. Please remember to complete and submit your position data, resume, and essays.
  
  Is there an application fee?
  Our application fee is $150.
  
  What should be the content of the company sponsorship letter?
  The letter of organizational support/sponsorship letter demonstrates the organization understands its commitment to time requirements and monetary support. The levels of support vary for each organization, so the admissions committee evaluates applications on a case-by-case- basis. The level and amount of sponsorship should reflect the level of investment the organization is making in the candidate’s career development. Applicants must submit a signed letter from their sponsor on company letterhead to the Executive MBA Programs office.
  
  If I own my own company or am the highest operating officer, how do I go about the sponsorship letter?
  The content of the organizational support/sponsorship letter demonstrates the organization understands its commitment to time requirements and monetary support and is still required for students who own their own company. It should be signed by the highest operating officer. If this is the applicant, it should be signed by the applicant. As the highest operating officer in an organization, it may be appropriate for the board of directors to write the sponsorship letter.
  
  Who should write the letters of recommendation?
  The program requires two letters of recommendation from supervisors and/or peer colleagues who know the applicant well, preferably from someone within the applicant’s current organization. Extra recommendations may be submitted at the applicant’s discretion. The applicant will input his/her recommender’s name and email address into the application and recommenders will be sent an email on how to complete the recommendation. They will be able to send in hard copies of the recommendation form to our office or upload the recommendation directly into our system.
  
  Can I apply to other Kellogg MBA programs at the same time?
  No, an applicant can only apply to one MBA program at a time. The Kellogg School of Management offers several degree and non-degree program options for professionals in various stages of their career. In addition to the full-time MBA program, Kellogg offers a Part-time MBA, Executive MBA, International Executive MBA, Doctoral programs (PhD) and non-degree Executive Education programs. Kellogg does not offer distance-learning programs. For more information on any of these programs, click here.
  
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  Admissions Decisions
  
  What does the committee consider when reviewing applications?
  The Executive MBA admissions committee considers numerous factors, including work experience, academic history, recommendations, company sponsorship, personal interview and the body of the application itself. Most important, however is work experience, including a candidate’s work history and current role and responsibilities in his or her organization. All candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of work experience.
  
  When will I be notified of the admissions decision?
  We have a rolling admissions policy. About 30 days after the Executive MBA office has received the completed application and all supporting materials, you will receive, by mail, a decision regarding acceptance to the program. Due to the competitive nature of the program, early application is encouraged.
  
  Can I get my application reviewed early if I am waiting to hear from another school?
  By requesting an early decision, we attempt to get an answer to you as soon as possible. Please keep in mind that many applicants are in similar situations as yours and have requested early decisions as well. If you would like an early decision, we require you fax us the letters from other schools to which you received acceptance.
  
  If my application is rejected, may I reapply or discuss my decision in person?
  Applicants will be required to have a scheduled phone conversation with the Dean or Director of the Kellogg Executive MBA Program before reapplying. After this phone call, if reapplication is recommended and time of reapplication is discussed, you will be sent a reapplication packet. We are not able to offer in-person meetings to review admission decisions.
  
  Can I defer admission?
  Yes, you may defer your offer of admission, but only up to one year. However, your $5,000 deposit is non-transferrable and non-refundable.
  
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  Enrollment
  
  How much is the confirmation of enrollment deposit?
  The deposit is $5,000 and is non-transferrable and non-refundable.
  
  Is there an orientation before classes begin?
  For our Evanston campus, orientation is scheduled on a weekend before classes begin. For our Miami campus, orientation is scheduled during the first live-in week.
  
  Does the Kellogg EMBA accept credits from other institutions?
  Our program has a lock step format, meaning all of our students take the same classes in a specific order. The program is designed such that you work closely with the same study group for a full two years and grow together as a team. Because of the structure of the classes and the nature of the work you complete, we do not accept any transfer credits and credits rarely transfer to other institutions.
  
  What are the main differences between a full-time MBA program and the Executive MBA?
  The full-time program is for students that have between 4-5 years work experience, while the Executive MBA Program students have between 12-15 years work experience. Our program is designed for mid-career professionals, who have already mastered their functional expertise. Our program offers them an opportunity to take a two-year general management course progression, which helps them continue to move into senior management roles within their respective organizations. The full-time program is specifically designed for people who are looking to change industries, acquire more business acumen or step into management positions. In the full-time program students pick a designated major or area of study, whereas in the Executive Program, students study all areas of general management.
  
  What are the main differences between a part-time MBA program and the Executive MBA?
  The part-time program is for students that have between 4-5 years work experience, while the Executive MBA Program students have between 12-15 years work experience. Our program is designed for mid-career professionals, who have already mastered their functional expertise. Our program offers them an opportunity to take a two-year general management course progression, which helps them continue to move into senior management roles within their respective organizations. The part-time program is specifically designed for people who are looking to change industries, acquire more business acumen or step into management positions at their companies while still remaining employed full-time. In the part-time program students pick a designated major or area of study, whereas in the Executive Program, students study all areas of general management. http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/Programs/PartTimeMBA.aspx
  
  How long does the program take?
  Candidates graduate two years after entering the program and have a summer break each academic year.
  
  What degree will I earn?
  Kellogg confers an MBA degree.
  
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  Interviewing
  
  Is an interview required?
  Yes, all candidates must complete an in-person interview with one of the program’s directors before the application is considered complete. Interviews are an important part of the admissions process, as they add a personal dimension to each application. We do not conduct phone interviews.
  
  When can I interview and what can I expect in an interview?
  Interviews are scheduled Monday - Friday during business hours. To schedule your interview, please call our Evanston office at 847-467-EMBA (3622) or our Miami office at 305-442-7780. We highly encourage applicants to interview at the campus for the program to which they are applying. The interview lasts about an hour and dress is business casual. Interviews add a personal component to the application – please plan to bring a resume and talk about your professional history and personal and professional motivations for pursuing an Executive MBA.
  
  How do I get to the Executive MBA campuses in Evanston and Miami for my interview?
  Directions can be found here.
  
  Why should I attend an information session rather than an interview as my first exposure to the program?
  The sessions are a great way to meet our directors and become better acquainted with the program. In general, current students (and occasionally faculty) attend and are available for questions at the reception that follows presentation. Speaking with current students at an information session is definitely one of the best ways to better understand the ins and outs of the program. Information sessions are a crucial part of the decision-making process in submitting an application – visiting the campus, learning about the different Kellogg programs, and talking with our students and directors. You can register for a session online here.
  
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  Financial Aid and Sponsorship
  
  Is there an application fee?
  Our application fee is $150.
  
  How much is the confirmation of enrollment deposit?
  The deposit is $5,000 and is non-transferrable and non-refundable.
  
  Do I need a laptop computer and what is the cost?
  To ensure seamless integration with the Northwestern University network and among all Executive MBA students, a one-time fee of roughly $1,300 will be added to the student’s first-year tuition invoice to cover the cost of a high-end, custom configured laptop computer.
  
  Do I have to be financially sponsored to be accepted to the program?
  You do not need to be financially sponsored by your company in order to be eligible for the program. However, your company must sponsor you for the time away from work. A sponsorship letter is required so that we know your company is behind your decision to pursue an Executive MBA. The program is vigorous and demands a lot of your time, thus support from your employer in terms of time and understanding is essential to your success.
  
  What should be the content of the company sponsorship letter?
  The letter of organizational support/sponsorship letter demonstrates the organization understands its commitment to time requirements and monetary support. The levels of support vary for each organization, so the admissions committee evaluates applications on a case-by-case basis. The level and amount of sponsorship should reflect the level of investment the organization is making in the candidate’s career development. Applicants must submit a signed letter from their sponsor on company letterhead to the Executive MBA Program office.
  
  How much is tuition?
  Tuition prices are announced in the Spring of each year. Current tuition prices can be found here. Tuition includes housing and meals during live-in weeks, weekly lunches and all books and supplies. Tuition also covers housing and most meals for class weekends. GIM trips and global elective travel expenses are additional costs and must be covered by the student or sponsoring company.
  
  If I decide to withdraw from the program will the tuition be refunded?
  If a participant leaves the program for any reason after he or she has been accepted and enrolled, no tuition refund will be issued.
  
  When is tuition due?
  Tuition is billed in three installments prior to each quarter in which you are enrolled. There is no summer quarter.
  
  If I am not fully financially sponsored by my employer, what financial aid options do I have?
  Financial Aid is available to qualified admitted students in the form of student loans. We are authorized to certify federal student loans (Stafford and Grad PLUS) as well as loans through private lending institutions. The interest rates and borrow benefits vary between lenders, therefore students are encouraged to carefully research loan options. Northwestern University’s preferred lender list can help students begin the lender research process. This resource is available via the Web here.
  
  Do you provide financial aid for international students?
  Northwestern University does have loan options available specifically for international students. The loans are processed through the NU International Loan Program which is a University loan that provides two options. The first option requires a credit-worthy U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident co-signer. There is no origination fee and a lower interest rate. The second option has no citizenship/residency requirement for the student or co-signer. However, a family member (parent, guardian or relative other than a spouse) must co-sign. This option charges a 4% fee and a half-percent-higher interest rate than the previous option. The loan limits come close to 100%, but may not cover all costs. The following link provides specific information on the terms of the NU loans: http://www.northwestern.edu/sfs/student_loans/loans_services/nu_general.html
  
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  International Students
  
  Is there additional material that I need to include since I did not graduate from an English speaking university?
  If your original degree program was not taught in English, you are required to take the TOEFL. The Executive MBA Program requires official transcripts from all universities and colleges attended in the United States and abroad. This is required for all colleges and universities attended, whether or not credit was earned, the program was completed, or the credit appears as transfer credit on another transcript. Please note that official transcripts are defined as original documents issued by the institution (not photocopies) which bear the actual signature of the Registrar and the seal of the issuing institution.
  
  Applicants with foreign/ international transcripts must request a course-by-course credit evaluation of their transcripts. We prefer either ECE (www.ece.org) or WES (www.wes.org), but list of all university approved agencies can be found at http://www.naces.org/members.htm. Failure to submit the evaluation may result in a late review of your application or denial of admission due to insufficient academic credentials.
  
  My transcripts are international and difficult to obtain, do you need official copies?
  Yes, this is non-negotiable. Kellogg requires official transcripts from all universities and colleges attended in the United States and abroad. Please note that official transcripts are defined as original documents issued by the institution (not photocopies) which bear the actual signature of the Registrar and the seal of the issuing institution. If your transcripts are from an international university, they need to be officially translated and evaluated. The course-by-course evaluation must then be submitted to Kellogg directly from the translating agency. For approved agencies, please visit http://www.naces.org/members.htm.
  
  If I am an international student and am accepted, does Northwestern University have an International office?
  Yes, please visit http://www.northwestern.edu/international/
  
  What is the minimum TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score required for an international applicant?
  We do not have a minimum score requirement, though the average is 277 for the computerized test. We review various indicators of English ability, including scores, essays and interview performance. We do not accept a TOEFL taken online with a score lower than 100. TOEFL scores expire after two years.
  
  Do you provide financial aid for international students?
  Northwestern University does have loan options available specifically for international students enrolled in the programs in Evanston and Miami. The loans are processed through the NU International Loan Program which is a University loan that provides two options. The first option requires a credit-worthy U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident co-signer. There is no origination fee and a lower interest rate. The second option has no citizenship/residency requirement for the student or co-signer. However, a family member (parent, guardian or relative other than a spouse) must co-sign. This option charges a 4% fee and a half-percent-higher interest rate than the previous option.The loan limits come close to 100%, but may not cover all costs. The following link provides specific information on the terms of the NU loans: http://www.northwestern.edu/sfs/student_loans/loans_services/nu_general.html
  
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  About the program
  
  How long does the program take?
  Candidates graduate two years after entering the program and have a summer break each academic year.
  
  What degree will I earn?
  Kellogg confers an MBA degree.
  
  How many credits do I take and how many of those are electives?
  As a student in the Kellogg School Executive MBA Program, you will take a total of 28 units of credit within a general management curriculum across multiple functional areas and disciplines. Four units of credit are taken as electives. The elective courses are taught in the winter and spring quarters of your second year. You may combine Domestic Electives, Global Electives, and a self-created Independent Study. A typical Executive MBA student will enroll in four units of electives.
  
  Are there electives and where can I see a sample listing of courses?
  Yes, please visit http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/Programs/EMBA/Courses_Curriculum.aspx for a sample listing of electives and sample course curriculum.
  
  Can I major in a particular subject?
  The concentration in the Executive MBA program at Kellogg is general management. The curriculum will cut across the major disciplines of business management and during the second year students will have several elective options available that will round out their general management focus.
  
  When do we receive our course materials and books?
  Materials are distributed during orientation and/or live-in week.
  
  Does the Kellogg Executive MBA program use case studies?
  Business cases are one of a wide variety of teaching tools utilized by faculty at the Kellogg School of Management to enhance the learning experience of students. Students have the opportunity to apply theoretical learning, situation analysis, and decision-making skills in a safe classroom environment - yet it is intense practice for success in a challenging business environment.
  
  How are the students divided into study groups?
  We hand pick teams of 5-7 people based on expertise, level of management experience, industry and educational back ground. The teams are well-balanced so that you learn to grow together and rely on each other throughout your various projects, tests and exams during the program.
  
  How many hours can I expect to spend studying each week?
  Our students spend an average of 25-30 hours of work outside of class weekends studying.
  
  In addition to traveling to Kellogg, is there other travel?
  The Evanston based Executive MBA students have all core classes on the Evanston Campus. The Miami based Executive MBA students have most core classes on the Miami Campus and travel to Evanston in January of their second year for an International live-in week and to begin their winter quarter studies. For International (Global) Electives, each student will take a minimum of four electives, some of which are offered on the campuses of our partner institutions. These Global Electives are two-course pairings that capitalize on either regionally specific coursework or subject related strengths of the partner institution faculty. While these Global Electives are not required, students are encouraged to broaden their cultural and academic perspectives by selecting from these or selecting the Global Initiatives in Management course. Please note that there are additional fees for the international travel component of the global electives.
  
  What is the Allen Center like?
  The James L. Allen Center is the home of Kellogg School Executive Education. The Center is completely self-contained with classrooms, study group rooms, 150 bedrooms, dining rooms, lounge areas, snack rooms, laundry service and an exercise room. The goal is to create a special environment for learning that anticipates all educational and logistical needs in a seamless fashion, thereby minimizing distractions from the learning experience. http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/execed/allen_center/index.htm
  
  What is the Miami Campus like?
  The Miami Campus is a fully-functional, self-contained facility, closely modeled after the James L. Allen Center in Evanston. The classroom and study rooms are equipped with the latest technologies, and were designed to meet the high standards of the Kellogg executive education experience. The campus is conveniently located in downtown Coral Gables, within short walking distance of several fine restaurants, and within minutes of the Miami International Airport. It is next door to the Hyatt-Regency, where students reside on class weekends.
  
  Is this a distance learning program?
  No. The program is designed such that you work closely with the same study group for most of your two years and grow together as a team. Given Kellogg’s emphasis on teamwork, it follows that study groups are an essential part of the EMBA experience. Many class projects are assigned to these cross-functional teams, rather than to individual students. Because of the structure of the classes and the nature of the work you complete, we do not offer distance learning.
  
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  Other
  
  I am having trouble logging in to the online application, do you have any suggestions?
  Please check to make sure your computer has the following requirements:
  - Your computer must have Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 SP1 or later, Netscape Navigator 7.1 or later, or Microsoft Internet Explorer 5 for Mac.
  - Set your browser to enable cookies and scripting.
  - For best results, set your screen resolution to 1024x768. Your minimum screen resolution must be 800x600.
  - Verify that your browser is configured to use “English (United States) [en-us]”, and that no other language setting is listed before it (Tools->Internet options->Languages).
  What is an EMP class?
  Executive Masters Program (EMP) refers to the cohort of the class to which students enter . Currently we are recruiting for EMP 81, 82, 83, and 84.
  
  Do you have an alumni network?
  Yes, the entire Kellogg alumni community consists of roughly 50,000 fellow alumni and 80 active alumni clubs on six continents.
  
  Do you offer career management services?
  Because of the demographic of an Executive MBA student, the program does not have an emphasis on career placement and job recruiting. While many students experience growth and changes in their careers throughout the program, many are focused on advancing in their current companies. For more information, please visit http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/Programs/EMBA/Why_Kellogg_MBA/Career_Resources.aspx
  
  Do I need a laptop computer and what is the cost?
  To ensure seamless integration with the Northwestern University network and among all Executive MBA students, a one-time fee of roughly $1,300 will be added to the student’s first-year tuition invoice to cover the cost of a high-end, custom configured laptop computer.
  - Application Process
- Admissions