Duke Fuqua MBA 2025-26

What does a Duke Fuqua Master of Business Administration (MBA) offer? Here's look into the program, its application requirements, rankings, class profile, tuition, scholarships, and placements.

Duration and Format

• Duration: 22 Months

• STEM Designated

• Curriculum: 17 Concentrations

• Clubs: 60+

• STEM: Yes

• Format: In-person

• Preference: Full Time

Duke Fuqua Application Deadlines 2025-26

If you're contemplating a Duke Fuqua MBA, knowing the application deadlines is crucial for planning your admissions journey:

• Early Action: September 4, 2024

• Round 1: October 1, 2024

• Round 2: January 9, 2025

• Round 3: Feb 20, 2025

• Round 4: April 3, 2025

GOALisB MBA admission consultants are here to guide you through every step of the process. Our experienced team will help you craft a standout application that showcases your unique strengths and aligns with your target schools.

Duke Fuqua's GMAT/GRE Waiver Policy: A Comprehensive Guide for MBA Applicants

Duke University's Fuqua School of Business has introduced a GMAT/GRE test waiver option for its Full-Time MBA program, reflecting a growing trend among top business schools to offer more flexible admissions processes. This policy aims to attract a diverse pool of talented applicants who can demonstrate their readiness for MBA studies through means other than standardized test scores.

Key Features of Fuqua's Test Waiver Policy:

1. Eligibility:

   • Available for Full-Time MBA applicants

   • Open to both domestic and international candidates

2. Criteria for Waiver Consideration:

   • Strong academic performance in quantitative coursework

   • Significant quantitative work experience

   • Advanced degrees in quantitative fields

   • Professional certifications demonstrating quantitative proficiency

3. Application Process:

   • Candidates must submit a test waiver request form

   • The form is available within the MBA application portal

   • Waiver requests are reviewed separately from the full application

Detailed Waiver Request Process:

1. Timing:

   • Submit the waiver request before completing your MBA application

   • Recommended to submit at least 2 weeks before your intended application deadline

2. Required Information:

   • Academic history, including all degrees and GPAs

   • Quantitative coursework details

   • Professional experience, highlighting quantitative responsibilities

   • Any relevant certifications or additional qualifications

3. Evaluation:

   • Each request is reviewed holistically by the admissions committee

   • Decisions are typically communicated within 5-7 business days

4. Outcome:

   • If approved, you can submit your application without test scores

   • If denied, you'll need to take the GMAT or GRE to complete your application

Factors Considered in Waiver Decisions:

1. Academic Background:

   • Undergraduate and graduate GPAs

   • Rigor of quantitative coursework (e.g., statistics, calculus, economics)

   • Quality of academic institutions attended

2. Professional Experience:

   • Years of full-time work experience

   • Roles involving data analysis, financial modeling, or other quantitative tasks

   • Career progression and leadership experiences

3. Certifications and Additional Qualifications:

   • Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CFA, CPA, Actuary)

   • Completion of quantitative-focused non-degree programs or courses

Important Considerations for Applicants:

1. Holistic Evaluation:

   • A waiver approval doesn't guarantee admission

   • Your entire application will still be evaluated comprehensively

2. Competitive Nature:

   • Meeting the basic criteria doesn't ensure waiver approval

   • The strength of your overall profile is crucial

3. International Applicants:

   • May still need to submit English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)

   • Work experience from global companies may be viewed favorably

4. Career Goals:

   • Consider how the absence of a GMAT/GRE score might impact post-MBA job prospects

   • Some employers, particularly in consulting and finance, may request test scores

5. Scholarship Implications:

   • While test scores aren't the only factor, they can play a role in merit-based scholarship decisions

   • Evaluate how a waiver might affect your scholarship opportunities

Advice for Potential Applicants:

1. Self-Assessment:

   • Honestly evaluate your quantitative skills and how well you can demonstrate them without test scores

   • Consider taking practice GMAT/GRE tests to gauge your potential performance

2. Strengthen Your Profile:

   • If applying with a waiver, ensure other parts of your application are exceptionally strong

   • Consider taking additional quantitative courses to bolster your academic profile

3. Prepare a Compelling Case:

   • In your waiver request, clearly articulate how your background demonstrates MBA readiness

   • Provide specific examples of quantitative achievements in academic and professional settings

   
   

Duke Fuqua's GMAT/GRE waiver policy offers a valuable opportunity for candidates with strong quantitative backgrounds to showcase their MBA readiness through means other than standardized tests. This flexibility aligns with Fuqua's commitment to building a diverse and talented MBA cohort.

However, the decision to apply for a waiver should be made carefully. Applicants must weigh the potential benefits against the possible impacts on their overall application strength, scholarship opportunities, and post-MBA career prospects.

Remember, the goal is to present the strongest possible application. For some candidates, this may mean applying with a test waiver, while for others, a strong GMAT or GRE score could significantly enhance their profile. Ultimately, Fuqua's policy allows candidates to choose the path that best represents their qualifications and potential for success in the MBA program.

Duke Fuqua MBA Program

About the Program and Application Requirements

The Duke Fuqua MBA program has specific application requirements:

• Transcripts in English Language

• Question and Essays: One short answer and two longer essays

• Resume

• One Letter of Recommendation

• GMAT, GRE, and Executive Assessment (EA) scores

• Interview

• Application fee: $225 USD

Interviews are conducted in English and last for 30 to 45 minutes, with a business casual dress code. Your résumé is shared with interviewers, but no other application information.

GMAT/EA Code:

• GMAT/EA code: Q13-N5-32

• GRE code: 5156

Duke Fuqua MBA Ranking:

Let's compare and analyze the FT MBA ranking data for Duke Fuqua MBA for the years 2022 and 2023 to identify changes and trends.

Salary and Career Progress:

• In 2022, Duke Fuqua had a salary percentage increase of 120, and it improved significantly in 2023 with a 130% salary percentage increase. This indicates that graduates experienced higher salary growth within three years of completing their MBA.

• Career progress rank also saw an improvement. In 2022, Duke Fuqua was ranked 42, but in 2023, it significantly improved to 34. This suggests that graduates are achieving better career outcomes and progressing in their professional lives.

Rankings:

• In 2022, Duke Fuqua's overall FT MBA ranking was 19. However, in 2023, it made a remarkable jump, securing the 11th position. This signifies a substantial improvement in the school's overall performance and reputation.

• In terms of FT research rank, Duke Fuqua was ranked 23 in 2022, but it significantly improved to the 10th position in 2023. This indicates an increased focus on research and academic excellence.

Salary and Value for Money:

• The average salary today for Duke Fuqua MBA graduates increased from US$183,588 in 2022 to US$195,308 in 2023. This suggests an improvement in the earning potential for graduates, making it an attractive proposition for prospective students.

• While the school's value for money rank was 92 in 2022, it improved to 91 in 2023. This indicates that students perceive the program as more valuable relative to its cost.

Gender Diversity:

• In 2022, Duke Fuqua had 25% female faculty and 48% female students. In 2023, there was a slight decrease in female faculty percentage to 22, but female students remained at 48%. The school continues to maintain a diverse student body, contributing to a more inclusive learning environment.

International Engagement:

• Duke Fuqua's international course experience rank improved from 67 in 2022 to 45 in 2023, indicating an enhanced global exposure for students.

• International faculty percentage increased from 40% in 2022 to 43% in 2023, reflecting greater international involvement in teaching.

• International students increased from 47% in 2022 to 53% in 2023, further enhancing the international diversity of the student body.

Environmental and Social Responsibility:

• Duke Fuqua made significant strides in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects. The carbon footprint rank improved from 69 in 2022 to 4 in 2023, signifying the school's commitment to sustainability and responsible practices.

• The ESG and net-zero teaching rank, which was not present in the 2022 data, was 73 in 2023, indicating a focus on teaching sustainable business practices.

In summary, the FT MBA ranking data for Duke Fuqua MBA shows significant improvements in salary growth, career progress, and international engagement in 2023 compared to 2022. The school's focus on research, environmental responsibility, and commitment to gender diversity remains strong. The jump in the overall ranking to 11 in 2023 indicates that Duke Fuqua continues to be an attractive choice for MBA studies.

Duke Fuqua MBA Class Profile (Class of 2025)

1. Range of GPA: 3.10 - 3.89 (mid 80%)

2. GMAT Range : 670 - 760 (mid 80%)

3. GRE Range: 306 - 330 (mid 80%)

4. EA score Range: 146 - 161 (mid 80%)

5. Average work experience: 6.1 years

6. Range of work experience: 3.75 - 9.25 years ( mid 80%)

7. Class Size: 385

8. Women: 45%

9. International Citizens: 47%

Duke Fuqua MBA Class Profile (Class of 2024)

Discover the diverse and accomplished student body at Duke Fuqua:

1. Class Size: 399

2. Women: 48%

3. Underrepresented Minorities: 25%

4. International Citizens: 39%

5. Average Work Experience: 6.0 Years

6. GMAT Range: 680-760

7. Average Age: 29 Years

Industries and Undergraduate Majors

Industries Represented:

• Financial Services: 18%

• Consulting: 14%

• Technology: 11%

• Health: 9%

• Government: 8%

• Non-profit/Education: 8%

• Consumer Goods: 6%

• Energy: 5%

• Media: 5%

• Other: 17%

Undergraduate Majors:

• Engineering/Natural Science: 33%

• Business/Accounting: 28%

• Economics: 18%

• Liberal Arts: 22%

Tuition, Scholarships, and Courses

Understand the financial aspects of your Fuqua MBA journey:

• Tuition: $71,750

• Estimated Total Cost of Attendance: $100,269

• Estimated Medical Insurance & Other Fees: 7,547

• Estimated Educational Supplies: 668

• Estimated Living Expenses: 20,304

Scholarships at Duke Fuqua:

​There are several scholarships available for students at Duke Fuqua. Some of them are:​

1. Merit-based scholarships

2. International Student Loan Program

3. Peace Corps Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program

4. Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship (CASE) Social Sector Scholarship: Other CASE support for Interns: Varies based on internship

5. Rex and Ellen Adams Loan Assistance Program:

Duke Fuqua MBA Placements

1. Daytime MBA 2022 Graduates

2. Total MBAs seeking employment: 348

3. Company-sponsored, already employed: 16

4. Starting a business: 1

5. Postponing search or not seeking: 6

6. Unique employers hired at least one Class of 2022 graduate: 133

7. Timing of first job offers

By Graduation:

Total Job Offers (N=348): 92%

Permanent Work Authorization (N=257): 93%

Non-Permanent Work Authorization (N=91): 89%

By Three Months Post-Graduation:

Total Job Offers (N=348): 98%

Permanent Work Authorization (N=257): 98%

Non-Permanent Work Authorization (N=91): 97%

Timing of Job Acceptance:

By Graduation:

Total Job Acceptances (N=348): 97%

Permanent Work Authorization (N=257): 97%

Non-Permanent Work Authorization (N=91): 97%

By Three Months Post-Graduation:

Total Job Acceptances (N=348): 97%

Permanent Work Authorization (N=257): 97%

Non-Permanent Work Authorization (N=91): 97%

Employment by Industry (N=326 Graduates Reporting)

Consulting: 36%

Technology: 23%

Financial services: 16%

Health care: 11%

Consumer packaged goods: 4%

Consulting (N=121 Graduates Reporting)

1. Strategic/general: 94%

2. Insights & planning: 2%

3. M & A: 2%

4. Human capital: 1%

5. Marketing: 1%

Technology (N=78)

1. Internet services/ecommerce: 28%

2. Software: 26%

3. General: 24%

4. Equipped/Hardware/Networking: 14%

5. Other: 6%

6. Telecom: 1%

Financial services (N=53)

1. Investment banking/brokerage: 66%

2. Other: 17%

3. Investment Management: 6%

4. Private Equity/Venture Capital: 6%

5. Asset Management: 4%

6. Insurance: 2%

Health Care (N=38)

1. Biotechnology/Pharma: 26%

2. Providers/Payers: 24%

3. Pharmaceutical – General: 18%

4. Other: 16%

5. General: 8%

6. Medical Device: 5%

7. Healthcare IT/Informatics: 3%

Top major cities U.S. job locations (2022)

1. New York

2. Atlanta

3. Seattle

4. Dallas/Washington DC

5. San Francisco

6. Austin

7. Chicago

8. Boston

9. Charlotte

Job locations - Major U.S. Regions and Cities (2022)

1. Northeast: 29%

2. West: 25%

3. South: 17%

4. Southwest: 14%

5. Mid-Atlantic: 9%

6. Midwest: 6%

Employment by function (N=335 Graduates)

1. 83% of the 133 unique employers are headquartered in the US.

2. Consulting: 40%

3. Finance: 24%

4. General management: 15%

5. Marketing/sales: 14%

6. Operations/logistics: 2%

Consulting (N=133 Graduates Reporting)

1. Strategic/general/management: 89%

2. Internal: 6%

3. Operations/process: 2%

4. Human Capital: 1%

5. Implementation: 1%

Finance (N=79)

1. Investment banking: 46%

2. Corporate: 28%

3. Private equity/venture capital: 8%

4. General: 5%

5. Investment management: 4%

6. Portfolio management/buy side: 3%

7. Impact Investing: 3%

8. Real Estate: 1%

General management (N=50)

1. Product management: 28%

2. Leadership development program: 26%

3. Business Development: 12%

4. Project Management: 10%

5. General: 8%

6. Internal Consulting/Analytics: 6%

7. Internal Consulting/Corporate Strategy: 6%

8. Data Analytics – General Management: 2%

Marketing/Sales (N=47)

1. Brand/product management: 62%

2. General: 17%

3. Sales: 9%

4. Product Development/Innovation: 6%

5. Business Analytics/Business Intelligence: 2%

6. Buying/Merchandising: 2%

7. Other: 2%

Compensation Details

Median annual salary by industry (N=320 Graduates Reporting)

1. Consulting: $175,000

2. Financial services: $175,000

3. Technology: $141,000

4. Retail: $135,000

5. Health care: $130,000

6. Consumer packaged goods: $120,000

7. Non-profit: $115,000

8. Transportation/Logistic: $115,000

Median Annual Salary by Function (N=320 Graduates Reporting)

1. Consulting: $175,000

2. Finance: $152,500

3. Information Technology: $145,000

4. General management: $135,000

5. Marketing/sales: $133,000

6. Operations/Logistics: $130,150

Median Annual Salary by Geographic Region: (N=315 Graduates Reporting)

1. North America: $160,110

2. Latin America: $85,204

Major Employers by Industry:

Consulting (3+ Non-Sponsored Hires)

1. Accenture: 10

2. Bain & Company: 12

3. Boston Consulting Group: 42

4. Deloitte: 22

5. EY—Parthenon: 4

6. McKinsey: 16

7. PwC: 3

8. ZS Associates: 3

Technology (3+ Non-Sponsored Hires)

1. Amazon: 18

2. Apple: 4

3. Cisco: 5

4. Dell: 9

5. Google: 11

6. Microsoft: 11

Financial services (3+ Non-Sponsored Hires)

1. Bank of America: 10

2. Barclays: 3

3. Citi: 3

4. Morgan Stanley: 3

5. Wells Fargo: 3

Health care (3+ Non-Sponsored Hires)

1. Davita: 4

2. Johnson & Johnson: 3

Consumer Packaged Goods (3+ Non-Sponsored Hires)

The Kraft-Heinz Co.: 4

What is Duke Fuqua MBA known for?

The Fuqua School of Business at Duke University is known for several key aspects:

• Leadership Development: Fuqua places a strong emphasis on developing leadership skills in its students. The curriculum, team-based learning, and leadership programs like the Fuqua/Coach K Center on Leadership & Ethics (COLE) contribute to this reputation.

• Global Perspective: With a strong focus on global business, Duke Fuqua offers various international experiences, including global academic opportunities and international business immersions. The diverse student body ensures exposure to different cultural perspectives.

• Ranking: Duke Fuqua consistently ranks among the top business schools in the United States. According to the 2021 U.S. News & World Report rankings, it is ranked 10th among all full-time MBA programs. Its strong reputation among industry professionals makes it a respected choice for MBA studies.

In summary, the Fuqua School of Business is renowned for its holistic approach to education, preparing students not only with strong academic foundations but also with the leadership, global, and entrepreneurial skills needed for success in today's dynamic business world.

What is a good GMAT score for Duke MBA?

While Duke Fuqua does not specify a minimum GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) score for admission, achieving a competitive score can significantly enhance your application. The median GMAT score for incoming students in the full-time MBA program is 720.

Does Duke MBA require GMAT?

Yes, Duke Fuqua's MBA programs do require applicants to submit GMAT scores as part of the admissions process.

Is Fuqua a good MBA?

When contemplating your MBA prospects, Fuqua shines as a distinguished and esteemed choice, renowned for equipping students for triumphant careers across diverse sectors.

Don't leave your MBA dreams to chance. Maximize your chances of success with GOALisB. Your future in business education starts here. Contact us today and let's embark on this exciting journey together!