We are now accepting applications for August 2026.

Admissions

Who We Look For

Curious thinkers. Bold problem-solvers. Collaborative leaders.

Our MSBA students bring more than strong résumés. They bring curiosity, drive and a desire to turn data into action.

We look for candidates who have:

  • A solid foundation in critical thinking, analysis and computing
  • Leadership potential in at least one key area, such as quantitative analysis, business experience, computing or organizational effectiveness
  • A passion for analytics demonstrated through academics, work or volunteer experience

The Admissions Committee considers your academic readiness, professional experience and personal qualities. There is no fixed formula. We review every application holistically.

Many backgrounds. One shared goal.

Our students come from a wide range of fields, including accounting, economics, liberal arts, business and more. What connects them is a shared commitment to making an impact through data.

We intentionally build a diverse class of thinkers and doers who challenge and inspire one another. If you're ready to contribute your perspective and learn from others, you're in the right place.

Admissions Requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree equivalent to a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree—16 total years of education. Alternatively a three-year undergraduate degree with a one-year postgraduate diploma or other graduate degreeTo determine if your degree program meets our requirements, review the expected level of study for international students.
  • Successful completion of coursework in these primary areas: computing, mathematics, statistics. For a detailed list of prerequisites click here. 
  • English language requirement fulfilled (where applicable)

Application Process

Applying begins with our secure online application. Once you create an account, you may enter, update, and save your information at any time. Please click "submit" once you are done. Your application must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the day of the deadline. We confirm receipt of applications and supplemental materials via email.

Please note, due to required manual processing, it may take one to seven days before the application portal reflects the status of your application materials. 

Statement of Application Integrity

Application Fee

A $125 application fee is required and payable by credit card within the online application.

Application fee waivers are available to active duty U.S. military, veterans, attendees of a UC Davis MSBA admissions event and on a case-by-case basis. Please visit our calendar for an opportunity to connect.

Current Résumé

To review the progression and milestones of your career, we ask that you upload a current resume through the online application. We prefer chronological resumes no longer than 2 pages, in PDF format. Your résumé should include a list of outside activities, awards and honors.

Essays (one required, one optional)

We’re looking for honest, thoughtful responses that help us get to know you; there truly is no one “right” answer.

Transcripts

You may submit unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate programs you have attended or are currently attending in pursuit of a degree with your application.

Official transcripts are required upon admission into the program. Transcripts must arrive in a sealed envelope as issued by the school. If the institution provides official electronic transcripts, they can be emailed directly from the institution to: gsm-msba-applicant@ucdavis.edu.

If your institution offers e-transcript services through Parchment, you may release your official transcript directly to our institution. Visit Transcript and Test Score Codes and Account Names for information. 

Recommendations

Your recommendations can be professional or academic or a combination of both.

GRE or GMAT Score Report

  • GMAT/GRE testing is optional for the UC Davis MBA programs. Please note that not having a standardized test score will NOT affect your application adversely. However, this will mean that your coursework taken would then form the sole basis for assessing your academic readiness for the program.
  • We currently reimburse up to $800 for prep materials for enrolled students. Learn more about test prep reimbursement.
  • We accept scores from the original 10th and 11th edition GMAT exam.
  • Test scores should be valid through September 1 of the year you plan to start your program. 

Visit Transcript and Test Score Codes and Account Names for codes. 

English Language Proficiency Requirement (if applicable)

The UC Davis Graduate School of Management’s requirements may differ from what is listed on the UC Davis Graduate Studies website given the specific needs of the curriculum. Where different policies exist, please adhere to the UC Davis Graduate School of Management’s requirements. 

Visit Transcript and Test Score Codes and Account Names for information. 

Virtual Interview (by invitation only)

After an initial application review, candidates may receive an invitation to a live virtual Zoom interview with the Admissions Committee. This is a positive indicator of our interest in you but does not guarantee admission.

Application Tips