About UCLA Anderson
At UCLA Anderson, MBA candidates learn within a powerhouse university of more than 40,000 students, located in one of the most diverse and creative cities in the U.S. Home to Snap, Hulu, Disney and every company on Silicon Beach, LA’s reputation as a creative city in media and entertainment are unparalleled, but LA’s strengths extend to sectors such as consulting, finance, healthcare and consumer products.
More than sunshine and beaches, it’s a serious business culture: the third largest GDP in the world, the largest manufacturing economy in the western U.S., and a major location for every consulting and banking firm. This nexus of industry, creativity and business-creation offers noteworthy access to company visits, guest speakers, mentors and internships.
In this dynamic environment, UCLA Anderson defines its community by three core qualities: share success, think fearlessly and drive change. Anderson pioneered the nation’s first field study program , more than 50 years ago—the Applied Management Research Program—and establishing the Easton Technology Management Center. That history of innovation is reflected in Anderson’s motto, “Think in the Next,” which speaks to its affinity for bold thinkers who are unafraid to chart new pathways and effect change.
Anderson has a nine-course core curriculum that includes the option to add a specialization for a deeper dive into a target industry or function. The second year of study is entirely by individual design, allowing students to choose from an array of electives. Students also complete an Applied Management Research project (AMR), a two-quarter capstone experience that synthesizes classroom learning and applies it in a real-world business setting.
Strengths And Specializations
Entrepreneurship, finance, technology, marketing, healthcare management, sustainability, real estate, communications, entertainment
Incoming Class
Number of applicants – 2,471
MBA Class size – 330
Annual tuition – $149,248
Post-MBA Careers
Sectors
Technology 34.1%; Consulting 23.8%; Financial Services 12%; Entertainment/Media 9.5%; Starting own business 5.3%
Avg. Base Salary – $146,727
Salary Increase – 122%
Employment in 3 months – 93.9%
UCLA Anderson Rankings
Admissions
Avg. Work Experience – 6
Avg. GMAT – 711
International Students – 37%
Female Students – 35%
Deadlines for 2023-2024:
R1 Oct 5, 2023
R2 Jan. 4, 2024
R3 April 12, 2024
Essays
Essay #1 (NEW in 2023-2024): For the 2023-2024 application year, we have one essay question that is required for first-time applicants and optional for re-applicants:
UCLA Anderson seeks to develop transformative leaders who think fearlessly, drive change, and share success. We believe the ability to persevere is an essential component of effective leadership. Please share an example from your personal or professional life where you demonstrated perseverance to accomplish a significant goal or milestone. (250 words)
OPTIONAL Essay: Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the Admissions Committee should be aware? (250 words)
Fortuna Tips & Advice
Read Fortuna’s Essay Tips & Strategy for UCLA Anderson
Request a copy of our team’s Insider Tips Report for Applying to UCLA Anderson.
View our MBA Admissions Essay Masterclass on UCLA Anderson, Berkeley Haas, Duke Fuqua & Yale SOM.