What do I need to do to learn more about this new program?

• Sign up for our part-time MBA mailing list and you will receive periodic updates and new information about the program.
• Attend our next evening information sessions on July 19 in Champaign. Not sure about what's involved in taking the GMAT exam? Attend our GMAT 101 info session on July 12 in Champaign. Register here for either or both events. 
• Download our brochure.

Who attends the Part-time Evening MBA?
The successful part-time evening MBA student will be a professional who is motivated by a sincere desire to learn and to advance their career.  The admissions committee will consider a variety of factors when selecting class members--professional performance, academic records, professional recommendations, and previously demonstrated ability to accomplish graduate-level business course work.  Most students will enter the program with two or more years of professional and/or managerial experience.  An undergraduate degree is required, though it need not be a business degree.  While test scores, grade point averages and other objective criteria are all considered, an applicant's background, work experience, career goals, desire to succeed, and numerous other factors will also be considered when admission decisions are made.
What's different about the Part-time Evening MBA curriculum?
The courses offered are similar to those taught in traditional MBA programs--accounting, finance, statistics, management, marketing and information systems--but the schedule is uniquely structured so students learn a maximum amount of course material in a challenging but manageable period of time.
What's the length of the program?
Students begin the program in January and complete their final class session in June two and one-half years later.  There is a two-month break in July and August each year to allow students some personal time.  Each January a new cohort will begin the program.
What impact will a Part-time Evening MBA have on my career?
Professionally, an MBA provides the skills needed to accept and handle additional management responsibility. An MBA degree reflects an advanced level of knowledge and skill in a wide range of contemporary management topics. It also implies a well-developed understanding of strategic thinking and planning. For the entrepreneur, the knowledge gained while earning an MBA can make the difference between success and failure in a highly competitive environment.
Can I afford the Part-time Evening MBA program?
An MBA is an investment in both career and future success.  Considering the high-quality faculty, facilities, and support staff dedicated to the program, the costs are modest in comparison to the benefits.  Prospective students are encouraged to contact their employers to determine if tuition assistance is available. Students who are not supported by their companies often qualify for loans and financial aid.  MBA tuition is determined by the number of credits taken in a given semester and is paid on a semester basis.  A $750 non-refundable enrollment deposit is required at the time of admission.  This will be applied to the first semester’s tuition at the time of matriculation. 
Is financial aid available?
Yes, MBA students interested in financial aid in the form of federal loans should complete the free FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on-line application as soon as possible http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. A scholarship program for military veterans has just been announced.
How many courses are there?
There are 18 courses, each which is four credits, for a total of 72 credit hours for the program.
When is the application deadline?
On-line admission applications will be accepted beginning September 1, 2005.  Applicants are encouraged to apply early to allow time to make the necessary arrangements at work and at home.  The last date to apply for January 2006 admission is November 1, 2005.
What are the application qualifications?
Applicants must be working full-time and possess a minimum of one year of full-time professional work experience; they must also have earned a US-equivalent four-year bachelor’s degree.  The GMAT and completion of the on-line application are also required.
How much of a time commitment is involved?
The program is designed with the working professional in mind.  Success in professional life demands a substantial and regular commitment of time, and the same can be said for the Part-time Evening MBA.  Courses and assignments are both challenging and rewarding.  Each team member should allot at least 15-20 hours per week for a combination of classroom work, computer and research efforts, and course assignments. Although the burden is eased by the support of other students, the program does require a high level of motivation and commitment.
Do I need to take the GMAT?
Yes, all applicants must take the GMAT within five years of matriculation.  http://www.mba.com/mba
Is corporate/employer sponsorship required?
No.  While many students probably will receive some type of employer assistance, students may pay tuition independently.
Does the Part-time MBA qualify for tuition waiver for University of Illinois employees?
The Evening MBA is a self-supporting program and tuition waivers are not granted for this program (see Code of Policies and Regulations Applying to All Students Rule 51.E).  Two Evening MBA Scholarships are available on a competitive basis for UIUC employees wishing to enroll.  Interested applicants should contact the Provost’s Office.
Are international students eligible to apply?
Yes, if they have an H-1B visa and they continue to work full time.  It is not legally possible to provide an F-1 student visa to part-time international students.
I have taken some graduate courses. Can I transfer them to your program?
Credits from courses taken previously are not transferable.  The program’s lock-step curriculum has been designed to insure that your cohort is mutually supportive and networking is maximized.  The interaction among the peers in each study group is as valuable to their team members’ educations as the content of the courses themselves.

Is a laptop computer required?
Although it is not mandatory, students are strongly encouraged to purchase a laptop computer with wireless networking capabilities that meets the College of Business preferred specifications.