top of page

USC Marshall MBA

Join us as we explore the USC Marshall School of Business located in Los Angeles, renowned for its comprehensive two-year, full-time program, boasting an extensive alumni network of over 93,000.



USC Marshall MBA

USC Marshall Two Year MBA Program


Program Highlights

  • Location: Los Angeles

  • Duration: Two years

  • Format: Full-time

  • Alumni: Over 93,000

  • First Year Core Courses: Spanning over 5 terms

  • Acceptance Rate: 23%

USC Marshall MBA Application Deadlines

When applying to an MBA program, it's essential to be aware of the application deadlines. USC Marshall offers several application rounds. Here are the deadlines for the 2023-2024 academic year:


USC Marshall MBA Application Deadline for the 2025 intake

Round

Deadline

Round 1

October 1, 2024

Round 2

January 10, 2025

Round 3

April 15, 2025


USC Marshall MBA Admission Requirements

To ensure your enrollment in the USC Marshall MBA program, it is essential to satisfy particular admission criteria. Let's delve into the specific prerequisites:


Admission Requirements

  • Online Application

  • Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

  • Academic Transcripts

  • GMAT or GRE Scores

  • Two MBA Essays

  • Professional Resume

  • TOEFL/IELTS (If Applicable)

  • No Application Fee

  • No Letter of Recommendation Required

Test Scores Reporting Code

  • GMAT: 389-9C-23

  • GRE: 4852

  • TOEFL: 4852

USC Marshall MBA Ranking

The USC Marshall MBA program boasts a solid reputation. Here's a glimpse of its rankings:

MBA Program Rankings (2023 - FT MBA Ranking 2023: 21


Comparison of FT 2022 vs FT 2023 ranking achieved by USC Marshall:


The FT (Financial Times) MBA ranking for the University of Southern California (USC) Marshall School of Business saw some notable changes between 2022 and 2023. Let's analyze the key differences:

  1. Overall Ranking: In 2022, USC Marshall was ranked 25th globally in the FT MBA ranking. However, in 2023, it made significant progress by securing the 21st position. This represents a positive trend and indicates an improvement in the overall MBA program quality.

  2. Salary: One of the most significant improvements is in terms of salary. The average salary today for USC Marshall MBA graduates in 2023 is $181,546, which is a considerable increase from $177,903 in 2022. This demonstrates the program's effectiveness in delivering a strong return on investment for its students.

  3. Career Progress Rank: In 2023, USC Marshall had a career progress rank of 65, whereas in 2022, it had a rank of 59. This indicates that while the overall ranking improved, there might be some areas related to career progress where it could further enhance the performance.

  4. Diversity and Inclusion: USC Marshall made positive strides in terms of gender diversity. The representation of women among faculty increased from 33% in 2022 to 34% in 2023. Similarly, female student enrollment rose from 36% in 2022 to 46% in 2023. These positive changes highlight the school's dedication to advancing gender diversity within its academic community.

  5. Internationalization: USC Marshall also saw an increase in international student enrollment, rising from 45% in 2022 to 49% in 2023. This suggests that the school is becoming even more attractive to students from around the world.

  6. ESG and Net Zero Teaching Rank: In terms of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) education, the school maintained a strong position in both years with a rank of 60 in 2023 and 76 in 2022. This shows a consistent commitment to sustainability and ethics in business education.

  7. Alumni Network: USC Marshall's alumni network rank improved from 58 in 2022 to 11 in 2023. A robust alumni network can be highly beneficial for current students and recent graduates in terms of networking and career opportunities.

  8. Value for Money: While the school maintained a high rank for value for money (85 in 2023 and 83 in 2022), it's important to note that the increase in salary and career progress might contribute to an even better perception of value for money in the coming years.

Overall, the USC Marshall MBA program has made significant advancements in key areas such as salary, gender diversity, internationalization, and alumni network strength. These improvements suggest that the program is continuously evolving to offer students a more comprehensive and rewarding educational experience. While there is always room for further development, the positive trends are encouraging for prospective MBA candidates considering USC Marshall MBA.


USC Marshall MBA Class Profile


The USC Marshall MBA program values diversity and brings together a unique group of individuals. Here's the class profile for the Class of 2024:

Class of 2024 Profile

Demographics

  • Class Size: 190 Students

  • Students of Color: 20%

  • International: 41%

  • Female: 35%

  • LGBTQ+ (Self-Identified): 9%

  • U.S. Military (of Domestic Pool): 12%

Academic Scores

  • Average GMAT: 722

  • Middle 80% GMAT Range: 700 – 770

  • Average GRE: 323 (160V | 163Q)

  • Middle 80% GRE Range: 308 – 333

  • Average GPA: 3.5

  • Middle 80% GPA Range: 3.09 - 3.87

  • Average Work Experience: 5.5 years

  • Average Age: 29 Years

Pre-MBA Industries

  • Financial Services: 19%

  • Technology: 14%

  • Healthcare: 13%

  • Consulting: 10%

  • Manufacturing: 6%

  • Consulting: 6%

  • Government/Military: 5%

  • Media/Entertainment: 4%

  • Consumer Package Goods: 4%

  • Non-Profit: 4%

  • Retail: 3%

  • Hospitality: 2%

  • Transportation & Logistics: 1%

  • Other: 7%

Undergraduate Majors

  • Business/Commerce: 26%

  • Engineering/Computer Science: 25%

  • Economics: 14%

  • Sciences: 12%

  • Social Sciences: 10%

  • Humanities: 6%

  • Law: 2%

  • Other: 3%

USC Marshall MBA Fees

Pursuing an MBA comes with costs and financial considerations. Let's delve into the tuition fees and scholarship opportunities at USC Marshall:


First Year Total Cost for MBA Program: $109,261

Second Year Total Cost for MBA Program: $95,139

FAQs

Is USC Marshall a good MBA?

The Marshall School of Business at USC has earned a solid reputation, consistently receiving positive evaluations for its MBA program from various organizations. It secured the 22nd spot in the 2021 edition of U.S. News & World Report's Best Business Schools rankings and achieved a global ranking of 39 in The Financial Times' 2020 assessment. Nevertheless, when determining the suitability of a particular MBA program, individuals should ultimately consider their unique personal and professional objectives. One year MBA programs in US are also an option that can be considered by applicants.


​What is USC Marshall MBA known for?

  1. USC Marshall School of Business is renowned for nurturing leadership skills and placing a unique focus on entrepreneurship and innovation.

  2. The university hosts a specialized Center for Entrepreneurship, providing valuable support and resources to students and graduates pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.

  3. USC Marshall's MBA program is distinguished for its comprehensive real estate and finance curricula.

  4. The program emphasizes international business and boasts a vast network of successful alumni. The institution is also celebrated for its diverse student body and its strategic location in Los Angeles, granting students unmatched access to a multitude of businesses and industries.

​Is it hard to get into USC MBA?

As USC Marshall is a prestigious institution with limited MBA program slots, gaining admission can be quite challenging. Typically, the program maintains a strict average acceptance rate which makes it hard to get into the class of 199. Recently the USC Marshall MBA program received 3166 applications and 23% were accepted to the program. This makes it a tough program to enter.


To enhance their prospects of acceptance, applicants should possess a strong academic track record, relevant professional experience, and a well-crafted application that effectively highlights their unique qualities and accomplishments. Additionally, securing a high GMAT or GRE score and securing robust letters of recommendation can further bolster the likelihood of admission.

​Does USC Marshall require GMAT?

Yes, USC Marshall School of Business mandates that applicants complete the GMAT or GRE as a component of the application procedure. These test scores serve as one of the metrics for assessing an applicant's credentials and their capacity for thriving in the MBA program. It's noteworthy to highlight that for the Fall 2024 enrollment period, USC Marshall introduced GMAT/GRE waivers for specific candidates who meet particular criteria or possess qualifying qualifications and experiences.


However for the 2024 intake there are currently GMAT or GRE test waivers being offered by USC Marshall for the two year full time MBA program. There are other programs which do offer the GMAT waiver for the 2024 MBA intake.


Are you ready to unlock your path to a successful MBA journey? GOALisB is here to guide you every step of the way. From personalized MBA admission consulting to expertly crafted MBA essays and interview preparation, we've got you covered.


Don't miss this opportunity to shape your future and gain admission to the MBA program of your dreams. Reach out to us today to start your journey toward a brighter and more promising career. Your future begins with GOALisB – where your ambitions meet our expertise. Get started now!


USC Marshall One Year MBA


The USC Marshall IBEAR (International Business Education and Research) program is a unique, accelerated one-year MBA designed for mid-career professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of international business and advance or pivot their careers. Here’s a comprehensive analysis of its structure, key benefits, and target audience:


Program Overview

The IBEAR MBA is a full-time, intensive program completed in 12 months, making it ideal for professionals who want an expedited MBA experience. It requires participants to complete 56 credits across six 8-week terms, encompassing core courses, electives, and a capstone project. With a typical class of about 55 participants from over a dozen countries, the program emphasizes diversity and global networking, bringing together professionals with significant experience.

Curriculum Highlights

  • Core and Elective Courses: The curriculum is designed to balance core management skills with flexible electives. Participants complete 17 credits of required courses, 21 credits of core functional courses (some waivable through challenge exams), and 18 credits of electives. This mix enables students to tailor their studies according to their career goals, whether in functional business areas or industry-specific topics.

  • STEM Designation: For international students, the STEM certification allows for a potential OPT extension, granting an additional 24 months to work in the U.S. post-graduation. This designation enhances employability by aligning with the growing demand for quantitative and analytical skills in business.


Experiential Learning and Capstone Project

A defining feature of the IBEAR MBA is the International Business Consulting Project (IBCP). This four-month capstone requires teams to work with real clients—ranging from Fortune 1000 companies to startups—on key business issues such as market entry, growth strategies, and supply chain management. The project offers hands-on experience, requiring rigorous analysis and client interaction, and is guided by faculty with global consulting expertise.

In addition, the program includes:

  • International and Domestic Experiential Learning Programs: These modules provide exposure to business practices and leaders both within the U.S. and internationally, enriching students’ understanding of diverse markets and business strategies.

  • Executive Leadership & Professional Development Workshops: These workshops, often held on- and off-campus, include retreats and are tailored to boost leadership skills and complement academic learning.


Student Profile and Admissions

The program targets mid-career professionals, with participants typically around 36 years old and possessing an average of 12 years of experience. Admission criteria include a minimum of six years of full-time work experience, with selection factors like academic history, test scores, recommendation letters, and essays. The IBEAR class profile is diverse, and around one-third of participants are sponsored by their employers or family businesses.


Networking and Career Services

IBEAR offers an extensive global alumni network, with over 2,100 alumni worldwide who actively support current students through mentorship, recruitment, and networking events. The program’s career services team provides personalized coaching, especially beneficial for mid-career professionals seeking career advancement or transitions. Career support includes industry-focused guidance, resume reviews, and networking opportunities.


USC Marshall iBear Scholarships

The IBEAR MBA offers specific scholarships, like the TAMBA and SAMBA scholarships for Indonesian candidates, which cover full tuition and living expenses. Additional scholarship opportunities are available for candidates demonstrating exceptional potential, especially during early admissions rounds.


The USC Marshall IBEAR MBA program is ideal for mid-career professionals seeking a rapid, globally-focused MBA that combines intense academic rigor with hands-on consulting experience. With its strong emphasis on flexibility, real-world application, and international exposure, the IBEAR MBA equips professionals with both strategic insight and practical skills. This program is particularly suitable for candidates looking to shift to international roles or advance their careers in global business settings.



Complete MBA Resource Guide: Explore Global Opportunities

Choosing an MBA program can be complex, especially with numerous international options. This guide provides you with categorized resources for popular MBA destinations and essential insights to aid in your application journey.


General MBA Admissions Resources

Kickstart your research with these foundational resources on MBA admissions abroad:


MBA Programs in Australia

Australia’s MBA programs are internationally renowned, offering students a rich learning environment and post-study work opportunities:


MBA Programs in Canada

Canada is a leading choice for international students due to its quality education, safe environment, and supportive post-graduation work policies. Explore these top Canadian MBA programs:

For an overview and general insights:


MBA Programs in Europe

European MBA programs provide a culturally immersive and globally connected learning environment. Here’s a selection of top programs across the region:

Additional insights for applicants:

MBA Programs in Germany

Germany’s MBA programs appeal to those interested in tech, engineering, and manufacturing. Key resources for Germany:

MBA Programs in Singapore

Singapore is a strategic choice for MBAs focusing on Asia-Pacific business opportunities. Find out more here:


Compare regions:


MBA Programs in the United States

The U.S. offers world-class MBA programs, known for their strong alumni networks and career support. Here’s a breakdown of popular U.S. programs:


Explore further with specific U.S. schools:


Essential MBA Application Resources

Beyond selecting a program, these resources can help you enhance your application:


For further specialized insights:

61 views

Recent Posts

See All

ISB MBA Fees

We are discussing about ISB MBA fees 2025-26 to provide inputs on the financial planning.

bottom of page