Admission Requirements

What You Need to Apply

Please view our class profile to understand what the current class looks like. When you are ready to apply, you will complete the entire process online.

The documents outlined below are required components of the application. A file is not complete until all documents have been submitted by the student and processed by the university.

Submit the online application and application fee.

Once you have created an account, you will be able to access the application form. You do not need to complete the form in one sitting.

Upload required materials into the application.

  1. Transcript(s) with university-level coursework
    1. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for consideration of admission.*
  2. Standardized test scores (optional)
    1. Standardized test scores are not required. If a student chooses to submit scores, the GMAT exam is preferred.
    2. Self-reported test scores must be accompanied with an unofficial student score report submitted in the application or an official score report sent directly to the university.*
  3. One-page resume
    1. An updated copy of your resume outlining educational and professional experience is required. For current undergraduate students, please also list internships, community involvement and leadership, if applicable.
  4. Cover letter
    1. Use this opportunity to write a well-crafted, brief review of your background, why you plan to pursue an MBA at the College and your career goals post-graduation. There is no word limit.
  5. Reference list
    1. Three professional and/or academic references must be provided including their full name and contact information. References may be contacted by the program during the admissions process.
    2. While not required, a recommendation letter can be submitted directly from the recommender to the program by emailing mba@cofc.edu with the applicant's name in the subject line.

Submit all required materials as early as possible to allow time for documents to be received and processed by the deadline.

*If admitted, you will be required to provide all official transcripts and test scores directly from the university or test agency.

Received documents are not returnable or transferable.

 

When to Apply


The MBA program’s admission cycle has three deadlines. Qualified students will be invited to interview with the director of admissions and other members of the MBA program staff. Students are encouraged to apply when their application is strongest. Only completed applications with all required documents will be considered for interviews.

Round Application Deadline Decision By
Priority/Round 1 October 1 December 1
Round 2 February 1 March 1
Round 3 March 1 Rolling

For a student to be considered for merit-based aid and graduate assistantships, the application must be submitted by the Round 2, February 1 deadline. Round 3 applicants are reviewed on a rolling admissions basis based on space availability.

What We Look For


We accept candidates with diverse undergraduate degrees including business, humanities, social sciences, the arts and engineering. The program looks for talented, motivated individuals who will succeed academically. Our MBA cohort members are expected to contribute to a dynamic classroom with team-based learning and participate fully in the program. While professional work experience is encouraged, it is not a requirement for admission.
  • Transcripts

    College of Charleston requires all students to have earned a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution at the time of matriculation of the applied start term. A competitive GPA with an A/B average is expected. Official transcripts will be required if admitted.

  • GMAT or GRE

    Students submitting a GMAT are eligible for additional scholarship enhancements based on the score earned.

    Learn More
  • Resume

    Please submit a business resume that includes your employment and educational history in reverse chronological order (most recent first). For your work experience, include titles, dates and whether you worked part-time or full-time. Your educational record should indicate dates of attendance and degree(s) earned. Other information appropriate to a business resume is encouraged, especially as it quantifies your experience and puts your achievements into context.

  • Cover Letter

    The cover letter is not dead, although a quick Google search may share otherwise. Use this opportunity to write a well-crafted, brief review of your academic and professional background, why you plan to pursue an MBA at the College and your career goals post-graduation. There is no word limit.

  • Interviews

    Interviews are by invitation only. After we receive and review applications, select candidates will be invited to schedule an interview. All interviews are scheduled virtually through Zoom.