MBA Application Prerequisites & Requirements

Degree / Coursework:
Prior to the program start date, an applicant must have completed a baccalaureate (Bachelor’s) degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association. The MBA program is open to students of all undergraduate majors and disciplines. No specific undergraduate coursework is required to apply.

GPA:
A minimum undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 (based on a 4.0 U.S.A. scale) is required to be admitted. Particular emphasis is placed on the last 90 quarter units (60 semester units). Admission is competitive and most successful applicants will have a GPA above 3.0.

Work Experience:
Professional experience is strongly preferred. Applicants whose resume does not clearly document one or more years of full-time work experience should explicitly quantify short-term (e.g., internships), part-time and significant voluntary experience in an addendum to your resume.

English Proficiency:
Evidence of English proficiency is required for international applicants. More information can be found HERE on the Graduate Admissions website.

Statement of Purpose (Personal Statement):
Your statement of purpose should be 500-750 words, and should include answers to the following questions:

  • Why do you want to get an MBA from Cal Poly?
  • How have your experiences prepared you to (a) reach your goals as an MBA student and (b) to be a constructive member of your MBA cohort?

Resume:
Include education, professional experience, volunteer work, etc.

Letters of Recommendation:
You will provide email addresses for two (2) supervisors or professors. Recommenders will be able to upload their confidential letters through Cal State Apply.

Test Scores:
GRE or GMAT scores are optional for Fall 2025 admissions. They are strongly encouraged for applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0.

Undergraduate Transcript(s)*:
Official transcripts are required from the degree granting institution and they must be sent directly from the institution. Additional information on how to send transcripts can be found HERE on the Graduate Admissions website.

*Official transcripts are not needed from students who received their undergraduate degree from Cal Poly SLO.