By Shruti P, MBA Admissions Consultant – GOALisB. Featured in Forbes, Poets & Quants, Hindustan Times. With over a decade of experience in MBA admissions, I have helped MBA applicants secure admits to top schools like Oxford, INSEAD, Cambridge, Wharton, ISB, IIMs, and other top business schools. Need expert guidance? Connect with me on LinkedIn or visit GOALisB.
In a world where names like Harvard, Wharton, and INSEAD dominate MBA conversations, some programs quietly build a legacy—delivering exceptional ROI, industry alignment, and global exposure. The University of Washington’s Michael G. Foster School of Business is one such program. With its base in Seattle, a global tech hub, Foster MBA offers more than what rankings can convey at first glance.
Let’s dig into the Foster MBA program, class profile, employment outcomes and what the 2025 Financial Times Global MBA Rankings really reveal, and how Foster stacks up, including against a powerhouse like the Indian School of Business , ISB.
In this blog we will cover:
Foster MBA Program Overview
Duration: Two Years
Format: Full-time
Core Courses: 46 credits
Elective Courses: 44 credits
Internships offered
Washington Foster MBA Application Deadline 2025
Round 1: October 1, 2024
Round 2: January 7, 2025
Round 3: March 12, 2025
Get in touch with an MBA Admission Consultant at GOALisB for application assistance to the Foster MBA.
Foster MBA Class Profile - Class of 2025
Category | Details |
Class Size | 111 |
Median Undergraduate GPA | 3.3 |
Median GMAT Score | 710 |
GMAT Mid 80% Range | 660–740 |
Median GRE Quant | 164 |
GRE Quant Mid 80% Range | 155–170 |
Median GRE Verbal | 158 |
GRE Verbal Mid 80% Range | 155–163 |
Average Age | 29 |
Average Work Experience | 6 years (Range: 4–9 years) |
Foster Full-Time MBA Diversity & Background
Diversity Indicator | Percentage |
Women | 53% |
Men | 47% |
U.S. Students of Color | 53% |
U.S. Underrepresented Students of Color | 24% |
First-Gen College Students | 19% |
LGBTQIA2S+ | 9% |
U.S. Military Veterans | 18% |
Foster Full-Time MBA Geographic Distribution
Region | Percentage |
Washington State | 21% |
Other U.S. States | 23% |
International | 56% |
Countries Represented: Argentina, Austria, Bangladesh, Canada, China, Colombia, Germany, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Pakistan, Peru, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Türkiye, USA, Venezuela, Vietnam
Foster MBA Washington Application Requirements
Online Application
Essays – 2 Required & 2 Optional
Updated Resume
Two Letters of Recommendation
Official GMAT or GRE Score Report or completed “Test Optional Summary of Qualifications”
Academic Transcripts (Candidate must have 4 years bachelor degree or equivalent)
Proof of English Language Proficiency
Video Interview
Non-Refundable Application Fee of $85
Test Scores Reporting Code
GMAT:459-75-20
GRE:4854
TOEFL: 4854
IELTS: 365
More deadlines for the Fall 2025 intake for MIT Sloan MBA, UVA Darden MBA, Yale MBA and Tuck MBA are also available.
Foster School of Business: Embracing Flexibility with Test-Optional MBA Admissions for 2025
The University of Washington's Foster School of Business has taken a progressive step in MBA admissions for the 2025 intake, offering a test-optional path that recognizes diverse forms of candidate potential. This approach reflects Foster's commitment to holistic admissions and acknowledges that standardized tests are just one way to demonstrate readiness for MBA studies. Getting a GMAT Waiver is a good option to apply to MBA programs.
Key Features of Foster's Test-Optional Policy:
Applicability:
Available for Autumn 2025 admission
Applies to the Full-Time MBA program
Test Acceptance:
Still accepts GMAT (both 10th Edition and Focus Edition) and GRE scores
No preference between GMAT and GRE
"Test Optional" Path:
Candidates can choose not to submit test scores
Requires completion of a "Test Optional Summary of Qualifications"
Application Process for Test-Optional Candidates:
In the application, select the "Test Optional" path
Complete the "Test Optional Summary of Qualifications" section
Provide a 150-word response detailing analytical and quantitative preparedness
Eligibility Criteria for Test-Optional Applicants:
Education:
Four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited university
Minimum 3.0 GPA in the most recent degree
Quantitative Aptitude:
Strong quantitative/analytical ability demonstrated through education or work experience
Preference for STEM or business-related degrees
Professional Experience:
Four or more years of professional work experience showing quantitative/analytical aptitude
Certifications:
Professional certifications in quantitative fields (e.g., CPA, CFA) are considered favorably
Foster's Holistic Approach:
The admissions committee emphasizes that meeting the above criteria doesn't guarantee admission. They consider multiple factors in their comprehensive review process, including:
Academic performance
Quality and quantity of work experience
Leadership potential
Interpersonal and communication skills
Fit with Foster's collaborative culture
Considerations for Foster MBA Applicants:
Potential Benefits of Submitting Scores:
May strengthen applications for candidates with lower GPAs
Can enhance scholarship opportunities
Some employers, particularly in finance and consulting, may request test scores in their hiring processes
International Applicants:
Strongly encouraged to submit valid standardized test scores due to the competitive nature of the international applicant pool
Career Goals:
Consider how test scores might impact post-MBA career opportunities in your target industry
Application Advice:
Self-Assessment:
Objectively evaluate your academic and professional background
Consider how well you can demonstrate quantitative skills without a test score
Prepare a Strong Narrative:
Use the 150-word response to clearly articulate your quantitative and analytical readiness
Highlight relevant coursework, professional experiences, and achievements
Balanced Application:
Ensure other parts of your application (essays, recommendations, resume) are exceptionally strong if opting for the test-optional path
Foster's test-optional policy for the 2025 MBA intake represents a significant shift in admissions philosophy. It opens doors for qualified candidates who may face barriers to standardized testing or whose strengths are better reflected through other aspects of their application. However, applicants should carefully consider their individual circumstances when deciding whether to submit test scores. The policy's flexibility allows candidates to present their best case for admission, aligning with Foster's commitment to building a diverse and talented MBA cohort.
Remember, while this policy offers more options, the admissions process remains highly competitive. Prospective students should focus on presenting a comprehensive application that clearly demonstrates their readiness for the rigorous MBA curriculum at Foster, regardless of whether they choose to submit test scores.
Foster MBA Employment Outcomes (Class of 2023)
Category | Details |
Employment Rate – Offers Received (3 months) | 94% |
Employment Rate – Offers Accepted (3 months) | 89% |
Employment Rate – Offers Accepted (6 months) | 92% |
Signing Bonus Received | 71% |
Foster Full-Time MBA Salary Statistics
Category | Amount / Range |
Average Starting Salary | $151,322 |
Mid 80% Salary Range | $120,000 – $185,000 |
WA State Resident Avg. Salary | $40,008 (Tuition) + $11,238 (Fees) = $51,246 |
Non-Resident/International Cost | $57,846 (Tuition) + $4,800–$20,000 (Fees) |
Foster Full-Time MBA Employment Location
Region | Percentage |
Washington State | 80% |
Other U.S. States | 20% |
Foster Full-Time MBA Internship Location
Region | Percentage |
Washington State | 74% |
Other U.S. States | 26% |
Foster Full-Time MBA Job Functions
Function | % of Graduates | Average Salary |
Consulting | 29.7% | $169,442 |
Finance/Accounting | 21.8% | $133,603 |
Marketing/Sales | 22.8% | $157,117 |
General Management | 9.9% | $146,559 |
Operations/Logistics | 11.9% | $130,900 |
Other | 4% | $150,700 |
Foster MBA Industries
Industry | % of Graduates | Average Salary |
Technology | 38.2% | $152,106 |
Consulting | 28.4% | $171,210 |
Finance Services | 4.9% | $147,500 |
Consumer Packaged Goods | 4.9% | $135,000 |
Manufacturing | 4% | $138,583 |
Energy | 4% | $111,667 |
Other | 15.7% | $130,962 |
What is the University of Washington: Michael G. Foster School of Business MBA ranking?
The Washington: Michael G. Foster MBA FT rank on various parameters is as follows.
Foster MBA FT Ranking 2025 Highlights:
Metric | Value |
FT Global MBA Rank 2025 | 34 |
FT Global MBA Rank 2024 | 30 |
FT Global MBA Rank 2023 | 34 |
3-Year Average Rank | 32 |
Weighted Salary (USD) | $195,893 |
Salary Increase (%) | 152% |
Aims Achieved (%) | 91% |
Employed at 3 Months (%) | 89% |
Value for Money Rank | 39 |
Career Progress Rank | 98 |
Careers Service Rank | 32 |
International Course Experience Rank | 9 |
FT Research Rank | 93 |
Faculty with Doctorates (%) | 69% |
International Mobility Rank | 47 |
International Students (%) | 35% |
Sector Diversity Rank | 6 |
Female Faculty (%) | 32% |
International Board (%) | 22% |
Female Students (%) | 22% |
Women on Board (%) | 34% |
International Faculty (%) | 34% |
FT MBA Ranking - Rank in 2023: 32
The below data is for the Ranking year 2022
School Name: University of Washington: Michael G. Foster School of Business
Rank in 2022: 30
Rank in 2021: 28
Rank in 2020: 47
Salary percentage increase: 120
FT research rank: 20
Three-year average rank: 35
Location, by primary campus: US
Salary today (US$): 156,715
Careers service rank: 22
Employed at three months (%): 97 (100)
Female faculty (%): 34
Female students (%): 40
International course experience rank: 84
Extra languages: 0
Environmental, social and governance rank: 50
Overall Satisfaction: 9.45
Weighted salary (US$): 156,715
Value for money rank: 52
Aims achieved (%): 91
Alumni recommend rank: 48
Women on board (%): 23
International faculty (%): 31
International students (%): 40
International board (%): 8
International mobility rank: 67
Faculty with doctorates (%): 92
Career progress rank: 91
Check the cost of an MBA in USA and understand the ROI of the MBA.
Foster Washington MBA Class Profile 2025
Class Size: 111
Women: 47%
Average Work Experience: 6 Years
Average Age: 29 yrs
International: 56%
Middle 80% GMAT: 660-740
Middle 80% GRE - Q-155-170, V-155-163
Median GPA - 3.3
Washington Foster MBA Class Profile Class of 2024
Class Size: 96
Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.35
Median GMAT: 710
Mid 80th Range: 660-740
Median GRE Verbal: 160
Mid 80th Range GRE Verbal: 151-164
Median GRE Quant: 160
Mid 80th Range GRE Quant: 155-166
Average Age: 29 Years
Student of Color: 40%
Average Work Experience: 6 Years
Men: 58%
Women: 42%
International: 43%
Undergraduate Majors Represented
Humanities: 17%
Social Sciences: 8%
Business: 18%
Engineering: 28%
Computer Science: 9%
Economics: 10%
Math & Science: 10%
Class of 2023
Class Size: 126
Median Undergraduate GPA: 3.47
Median GMAT: 710
Mid 80th Range: 660-740
Median GRE Verbal: 160
Mid 80th Range GRE Verbal: 154-168
Median GRE Quant: 160
Mid 80th Range GRE Quant: 154-166
Average Age: 29 Years
Students of Color: 36%
Average Work Experience: 6 Years
Men: 60%
Women: 40%
International: 40%
Undergraduate Majors Represented
Humanities: 17%
Social Science: 6%
Business: 17%
Engineering: 33%
Computer Science: 6%
Economics: 9%
Math & Science: 12%
Foster MBA Fees: The total Program Cost Non-resident of US for the Foster MBA is $115,662.
Washington Foster MBA Financing Options
Foster Scholarships
Outside Scholarships
Federal Loans
Private Loans
Second Year MBA Work
Foster MBA vs ISB – FT Global MBA Rankings 2025
Metric | Foster MBA (University of Washington) | ISB (Indian School of Business) |
FT Global MBA Rank 2025 | 34 | 27 |
FT Global MBA Rank 2024 | 30 | 39 |
FT Global MBA Rank 2023 | 34 | 39 |
3-Year Average Rank | 32 | 32 |
Weighted Salary (USD) | $195,893 | $185,885 |
Salary Increase (%) | 152% | 247% |
Aims Achieved (%) | 91% | 95% |
Employed at 3 Months (%) | 89% | 97% |
Value for Money Rank | 39 | 59 |
Career Progress Rank | 98 | 33 |
Careers Service Rank | 32 | 33 |
International Course Experience Rank | 9 | 64 |
International Students (%) | 35% | 17% |
Faculty with Doctorates (%) | 69% | 86% |
International Faculty (%) | 34% | 47% |
International Board (%) | 22% | 10% |
Female Students (%) | 22% | 29% |
Women on Board (%) | 34% | 15% |
FT Research Rank | 93 | 86 |
Sector Diversity Rank | 6 | 29 |
Key Takeaways:
ISB leads in: Salary Increase (%), Aims Achieved, Career Progress, and Employability.
Foster leads in: Global Exposure (International Students, Faculty, Course Experience), and Sector Diversity.
ISB is rising: Jumped 12 places from 2024 to 2025, now ahead of Foster in overall rank.
Foster MBA Employment Report
Class of 2022
Washington Foster MBA Placements
MBA 2022 Graduate Employment Profile
Offer accepted within 3 months after graduation: 99%
Offer accepted at graduation: 91%
Average salary: $147,340
Median salary: $144,500
Mid 80th range: $120,000 – $175,000
Receiving signing bonus: 84%
Average signing bonus: $40,657
Employment by Functions
Consulting: 33%
Finance / Accounting: 15%
General Management: 9%
Marketing / Sales: 36%
Operations / Logistics: 7%
Average Base Salary by Functions
Consulting: $165,017
Finance / Accounting: $133,585
General Management: $138,800
Marketing / Sales: $141,063
Operations / Logistics: $137,552
Employment by Industry
Consulting: 31%
Financial Services: 3%
Healthcare: 6%
Manufacturing: 5%
Technology: 48%
Other: 7%
Average Base Salary by Industry
Consulting: $165,017
Financial Services: $153,333
Healthcare: $117,800
Manufacturing: $118,000
Technology: $140,354
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About the Author:
Shruti P is a leading MBA admissions consultant at GOALisB, a top-tier consulting firm specializing in MBA and Executive MBA applications. With over a decade of experience, she has successfully guided 5,000+ applicants to admissions at Oxford, INSEAD, Cambridge, Wharton, ISB, IIMs, and other top business schools.
Her insights on business education, MBA admissions, and career transitions have been featured in Forbes, Poets & Quants, Hindustan Times, and The Week, solidifying her expertise in the field:
Poets & Quants: How to Use an MBA for a Career Switch
Poets & Quants Consultant Profile: Shruti Parashar on Poets & Quants
Hindustan Times: ISB and Beyond - GOALisB's Personalized Guidance
As a mentor at ISB and XLRI, Shruti has helped MBA admits navigate post MBA careers.
Need expert MBA application guidance? Book a free consultation today.
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