How to apply

How to apply FAQs

• When should I apply?

  We operate a rolling admissions process, with applications reviewed in the order in which we receive them. The admissions process usually takes up to eight weeks: the sooner you submit your application, the sooner you will receive your final decision. 

  We strongly recommend that you apply as early as possible to provide yourself with plenty of time to finalise arrangements with your organisation and colleagues and, if necessary, to arrange relocation to London with your family. 

  Once the class is full, we operate a wait-list system with priority given according to the order in which applications are received. Many wait-listed candidates are successful in securing a place on the programme. We will do everything we can to help you with the application process. 

  For further information, contact: sloan@london.edu

• How much is the application fee?

  The application fee for the LBS Sloan Masters is £160.

  You pay online after submitting your application. Your application will remain incomplete until we receive the fee.

  Graduates of London Business School and the University of London do not have to pay the fee.

• Should I consider the Executive Assessment (EA)?

  The Executive Assessment has been developed by a consortium of business schools as a diagnostic of proficiency in key areas specifically for executive calibre candidates. It is shorter than the GMAT test, and designed to be taken with modest preparation.

  You can read more about scheduling, content and preparation by going to: Executive Assessment. Remember you can fast-track your application by applying with the minimum application form, CV, essays and one reference.

• Is GMAT/GRE/EA compulsory?

  Tests are used as part of multiple criteria to assess an applicant since they provide useful information about quantitative and verbal reasoning abilities.

  They also offer a useful benchmark to judge applicants across degree subject, academic institution and nationality.

  London Business School Sloan GMAT reporting code: Z11-J7-18.

  Candidates may submit their applications pre-GMAT as part of the fast-track process (application form, essays, 1 reference).

• What is the minimum score required?

  We do not set a minimum test score, but pay attention to performance, educational background and skills and responsibilities in your career and current position.

  A high score does not guarantee admission; equally, a below-average score does not automatically discount your candidacy.

• How do I prepare for tests?

  Make use of the many preparation and study aids available. It's important that you prepare early. We recommend practice sessions with a preparation textbook or software, and being rigorous on timing.

  If the concepts are unfamiliar, you may benefit from a tuition course. The Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC) offer a range of tools to help you prepare at http://www.mba.com/.

• When should I take the test?

  Timing is critical. Take advantage of the application fast-track option to get a stronger sense of your candidacy, then you have an agreed time to work on tests with the confidence of knowing your place is reserved.

  Candidates who are not UK/EU nationals should build in time to take the test and complete the process in time to apply for their visas to the UK. You can only take the test once in the same month. Forward planning will allow you to retake the test if you're not happy with your score.

  Every year we welcome students that have retaken their test. It is worth at least booking your test, to have a date to work towards.

  Visit http://www.mba.com/global/the-gmat-exam/ to obtain more information about available test centres and dates.

  On the day itself, try to relax, drink plenty of water and let us know how you got on.

• Can I waive the GMAT?

  In exceptional cases, the GMAT, GRE or EA can be waived. We will consider a waiver if your work experience, professional status or prior degree/training indicates a high level of analytical or quantitative ability.

  Conditions for waivers include but are not limited to the following:

  • CEOs
  • CFOs
  • Managing Directors
  • Division Heads or individuals who can prove their experience in managing major budgets or investment portfolios
  • Treasurers
  • Chief Accountants
  • CFAs or candidates with advanced training in quantitative fields of study.

  If you feel you merit a waiver we invite you to speak with an admissions officer for more information.

  Requests for waivers will be considered after you have submitted your online application. Fast-track candidates should submit their transcripts if they believe they may be suitable for a waiver.

  The Admissions Committee may require you to take the GMAT, GRE or EA at its own discretion, and may also ask that you complete an alternative test or an online course in order to meet the conditions of admission.

• Do I need to take the TOEFL/IELTS?

  In order to comply with the institutional policies related to the student visa application, you may be required to take TOEFL/IELTS or any other authorised English competency test if English is not your first language and you have not studied a degree or worked for more than two years in an English-speaking environment approved by the UKVI (please see the full criteria here).

  Please ensure that you have documentation or evidence to support your residency and employment history in the English-speaking country for the specified duration. 

• Can I waive the application fee?

  Graduates of fellow University of London colleges, Columbia University and the University of Hong Kong can apply for free.

  You must request a fee waiver when you apply, and provide a copy of your college transcript.

  Candidates recommended by LBS alumni may also be exempt from the application fee.

  Alumni wishing to recommend a candidate should email sloan@london.edu stating their relationship with the candidate and their reasons for the recommendation.

  Recommendations must be received before the application is submitted.

• Who should my references be from?

  All applicants are required to have one reference submitted on their behalf, which can be from a current or previous manager, a colleague, someone who knows you well at work, or in a professional capacity.

• Do I need to submit my academic transcripts?

  You will need to submit academic transcripts from your undergraduate and graduate educational institutions.

  If the original transcripts are not in English, please also provide certified translated copies.

• How should I submit my application?

  You should apply online and send your supporting documents, including references and academic transcripts, to the Sloan admissions team.

• Once my application is submitted, what happens next?

  You will receive an initial decision on your application within one week of submission.

  If shortlisted for an admissions interview, you will be requested to take the Kira video assessment as part of our holistic evaluation process.

  You will then be invited to attend an interview with senior admissions staff or LBS Sloan alumni.

  Following this, you should receive a final decision within one week with a deadline in which the offer must be accepted.

  The whole process generally takes four to six weeks.

• What happens if my application is not successful?

  If your application is not successful, please review the admissions criteria against your application and ensure that your experience and objectives are aligned with the admissions criteria.

  Remember that competition for places is high, and consequently we are not able to offer places to every suitable candidate.

  Please read our policy document.