Executive MBA Frequently Asked Questions
Find out what to expect from your academic experience in the Executive MBA program.
Academics
How is the EMBA program different from McDonough’s Full-time or Flex MBA programs?
The EMBA program is designed for mid- to senior-level managers across diverse industries, and recommended minimum of 8 years of professional experience, while the MBA is designed for professionals earlier in their careers. Georgetown McDonough delivers the EMBA curriculum in an alternating weekend format, with one in-person class weekend and one synchronous online Saturday session, which allows students to maintain their current employment and a manageable work-life balance.
What is the duration of the EMBA program?
The Executive MBA program spans 21 consecutive months, beginning in August each year on an alternating weekend format that includes three five-day residencies and two week-long international experiences.
What is the pacing of classes?
Students attend classes in-person on the Georgetown University campus one weekend each month (Friday through Sunday) and also participate in a synchronous online session on the Saturday in between. All students also complete three five-day residencies on campus and two week-long international experiences, including the Global Capstone Project.
What is the size of a typical EMBA cohort?
A typical EMBA cohort ranges from 50 – 60 students.
How are the courses taught?
Individual faculty members deliver course content using different approaches, including case studies, lectures, experiential learning, simulations, and group projects. Teamwork is emphasized throughout the program. It creates a rich learning environment in which students are exposed to various industry perspectives and learn from their classmates’ experiences.
Do I need to supply my own course materials?
No. The program provides students with all course materials in advance of each course.
How many hours per week should I expect to work on course preparation outside the classroom?
Depending on your work experience and familiarity with the subject matter, the amount of preparation time will vary. Students report spending an average of 12 to 15 hours per week on coursework outside of the classroom.
Are any EMBA courses completed online?
Yes. Courses will be delivered online one Saturday per month in a synchronous format, meaning that the professor and students will meet together as a group in an online classroom environment.
Can I have a concentration or major?
EMBA students may not identify a concentration or a major but have opportunities to tailor their study based on industry and interest based on options available through the program’s electives, a global capstone residency, and research.
Admissions
What are the qualifications for admission to the program?
Applicants should possess a recommended minimum of eight years of work experience and demonstrate potential for leadership. We seek mid- to senior-level professionals who endeavor to enrich the business environment and who represent a variety of nationalities, backgrounds, and industries. International experience is preferred but not required.
What degree do I earn upon completion of the program?
Students in the EMBA program receive a Master of Business Administration.
Is the EMBA program accredited?
The EMBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Are GMAT, Executive Assessment (EA), or GRE scores required for admission to the EMBA program?
No. Neither GMAT, EA, nor GRE scores are required for admission. The Admissions Committee does reserve the right to request a score to better evaluate an applicant’s quantitative skills.
Must students be employed full time?
We expect students to hold full-time employment throughout the program. As members of an executive learning community, students bring real-world experience into the classroom and are able to immediately apply academic concepts gained through our curriculum in their workplaces. However, the Admissions Committee is willing to review and consider applicants who currently do not hold full-time positions.
Do I have to be sponsored by my employer?
Although some students are partially or fully financially sponsored by their employers, financial sponsorship is not a requirement.
May I apply for deferral if admitted?
Students who are admitted to the program may apply for a deferral for up to one academic year. Deferrals are granted on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions Committee once the admitted student submits a formal written request.
When is a TOEFL score required?
A TOEFL score is required for students who are non-native English speakers, for students who have not completed a bachelor degree in a university where English is the primary language of instruction, or for students who have not worked in an English-speaking country or organization for at least three years. Most applicants who take the TOEFL will take the internet-based test (iBT). A minimum score of 100 is required. As an alternative to the TOEFL, we accept International English Language Testing System (IELTS) results. We require a minimum score of 7.5 out of 10 on the academic module and accept only academic module results.
How is tuition billed?
Tuition is billed on a per-credit rate. The EMBA program spans five semesters and has five payment periods.
What does tuition cover?
Course materials, meals, hotel accommodations for specified off-campus residencies, and parking are included.
What process should I follow if my employer has agreed to provide full or partial financial sponsorship for my degree?
Candidates who are receiving full or partial financial sponsorship from their employers should report this information on their application forms. In addition, applicants may set up third-party billing on their student accounts so their company sponsors can be billed directly for full or partial tuition payments.
Does Admissions provide scholarships for degree program students?
Georgetown McDonough offers scholarships for Executive MBA program students based on merit. To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must include a scholarship essay with their applications. Applicants are notified of scholarship awards upon admission to the program.
Is financial aid available for degree program students?
Financial aid is available from several federal student loan and employment programs, often referred to as “Title IV” assistance. These programs include the Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loan and Perkins Loan programs, and the Federal Work-Study program. Eligibility for these programs is dependent on demonstrated financial need. The financial aid process begins after an applicant has been accepted to the program. Once accepted, each applicant will be referred to a financial aid representative. For more information, please contact the Office of Student Financial Services.
What educational benefits are available for veterans?
A range of educational benefits are available to service members, veterans, and their families. Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business is a proud member of the Yellow Ribbon Program. The Yellow Ribbon Program allows Georgetown to expand its financial commitment to veterans by extending education benefits above and beyond those provided by the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Eligibility for the benefit is determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information or to learn about your eligibility and the structure of the benefits at Georgetown, please contact veteranservices@georgetown.edu.