Entry Requirements
The general requirements for all applicants include the completed application form and payable fees in addition to the documents listed below.
General Requirements
Application documents
- Application Form: applicants must submit a completed and signed application form.
- Photographs: six (6) passport-size photographs must be included with the application form submitted to HBS. Most of these photos are required by the local authorities and for student visas.
- Recommendations: two (2) confidential letters of recommendation from instructors or employers who are familiar with the applicant’s past performance. Certified translations must also be submitted for all letters not in English.
- Résumé or CV: a brief written account of the applicant’s strengths and accomplishments, including personal details, education, work experience, other qualifications and career expectations.
- Official sealed documents: applicants must submit transcripts, diplomas and certificates for all applicable academic work done at secondary or university-level institutions in the past three (3) years. Certified translations must also be submitted for all documents not in English.
- Motivation letter: the essay should be at least 500 words in length, telling the story of your academic development and any work experience in a first-person narrative, and explaining your reasons for applying and how you expect HBS to improve your career goals.
- Evidence of sufficient financial means: bank statement, sponsor letter, etc.
- Language proficiency: see the English language requirements below.
English
Language proficiency
Proficiency will normally be recognised if students have completed any of the following conditions: attendance for at least three recent full years of study in an institution where the sole language of instruction is English; or obtaining Standard level or higher in the International Baccalaureate (IB).
If none of these conditions apply, proof of proficiency in English must be provided by achieving the appropriate score on one of the following tests.
- IELTS
- Overall 5.5, no element below 4.5
- TOEFL iBT
- Overall 72–94
- TOEFL elements
- Reading 18 · Listening 17 · Speaking 20 · Writing 17
- Translations
- Certified English translations for all records not in English
The FAQ page also lists an earlier proficiency route of at least 550 in TOEFL or at least 6.0 in IELTS. Where published figures differ, confirm the current requirement with the Admissions Office before submitting your application.
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