Exception Policy for M.B.A. Performance-Based Admissions Requirements

Stuart School of Business is dedicated to advancing students’ careers worldwide in technology-oriented private and public sector industries through a combination of rigorous research and relevant education, as reflected in Stuart’s mission statement.

Generally, Illinois Institute of Technology and Stuart require an applicant to an M.B.A. program to have earned at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college in the United States, or a comparable degree from a recognized institution of learning abroad. 

However, on very select occasions, Stuart may admit a student to an M.B.A. program who does not meet this minimum requirement, but has demonstrated extraordinary work experience, intellect, and/or other educational credentials complemented by significant work experience.

Exception Policy:

There are three categories for a potential exception:

  • Extraordinary background exemplified by 10-plus years of business-relevant experience
  • Extraordinary intellect exemplified by demonstrable achievements
  • Significant other educational credentials complemented by related work experience

Should an applicant believe that their record aligns with at least one of the above three categories, they may submit an application to Illinois Tech’s performance-based admissions process for consideration.  

An applicant considered under this exception policy will undergo the same rigorous application review as any student. Additionally, the applicant must provide a statement detailing how their specific circumstances align with the categories summarized above to warrant an exemption to the standard bachelor’s degree requirement, and possibly undergo an interview.

If admitted following this review, the student will take a set of three predetermined performance-based admissions courses, and upon successful completion (with a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.0, including a grade of B or higher in at least two of the three courses), they will be automatically admitted to the M.B.A. program as a degree-seeking student for the subsequent term.

The credits that an applicant earns in the three performance-based admissions courses will be applied toward their program of study and count toward their degree. All admitted applicants will have the full program and course experience, as well as access to academic advising and support.