Frequently Asked Questions
Important Program News: Update
Over its 55-year history, the Stanford Sloan Master’s Program has evolved from being one for corporate-sponsored executives to now including a mix of self-funded individuals from a range of industries and geographies. In keeping with the Stanford Graduate School of Business spirit of innovation, we are pleased to announce some changes that will go into effect for the 2012-2013 school year:
- Extended 12-month school year (now starting in July)
- More differentiated core course offerings
- New courses that acknowledge the significant, managerial experience of the Fellows that will be delivered to them exclusively
- More flexibility to take advantage of a greater range of elective courses
How does the Sloan Master's program compare to the MBA program?
Stanford MBA Program |
Stanford Sloan Master's Program |
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What is the application deadline?
Applications are closed for the Sloan Class of 2013 (commencing July 2012). The application deadline for the Sloan Class of 2014 (commencing July 2013) is November 1, 2012, with rolling admissions after that until the class is filled.
What is the cost of the program?
Tuition for the 2012-2013 academic year is $108,000. In addition, living and incidental expenses for Sloan participants and their families may range from $50,000 - $100,000 depending on circumstances. Additional budget information is in the Apply section.
Do you offer financial aid?
Financial aid is available in the form of loans only. The GSB provides private educational loan funds to self-funded U.S and international students, and federal educational loans to US citizens and permanent residents. All self-funded Sloan Fellows will be required to contribute a portion of their income and assets towards the cost of attendance.
Can I apply online?
Yes. All our applications are submitted online. Click here for the online application.
Who should write a letter of recommendation?
If sponsored, Sloan Fellows must have a written recommendation from the chief executive officer (or a designee) of their sponsoring organization. In addition, two other confidential written recommendations are required. These should be from individuals who have been directly responsible for evaluating your managerial performance and potential.
Do you interview candidates?
Candidates are strongly encouraged to visit a Sloan core class and to meet with the Sloan Program staff for an interview. Please call Sally Pierce at 650.723.2149 to schedule a visit to campus.
Are non-United States citizens treated any differently in the admissions process?
If English is not your primary language and/or if your university work was not conducted in English, you are required to submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). In order to maximize your learning in the Sloan Program, it is important to have strong English reading skills to keep up with the volume of required course reading plus strong expressive communication skills to participate in the dynamic classroom discussions.
Do you require the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)?
All applicants must submit results from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) with their application for admission. As soon as the GMAT is completed, an "unofficial" score will be provided. Applicants must note this score on their application for admission. An official score must also be mailed to the Sloan office by the GMAT service. Information about the GMAT is available online at www.mba.com. Tests taken prior to August 2007 are not valid, and must be retaken. The 2012 Sloan Class had a median GMAT score of 680.
Do you require the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)?
If English is not your native language, you must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Participation in class discussions is required and can significantly affect the Sloan Fellow's ability to succeed in the program. It is essential that each Fellow be fluent in both spoken and written English. TOEFL information and registration are available at online at www.ets.org/toefl.
I don't have unofficial scores for the GMAT and/or TOEFL exams because the computer-based test is not available in my area. What should I do?
If you took the paper-based test, you may leave the scores blank on your application form; however, please write in the month and year you took the exam. Be sure to have the official scores sent to us by the respective testing agency.
I am scheduled to take the GMAT or TOEFL right before the application deadline, so I won't have my official scores in time. What should I do?
You may include your unofficial scores on your application form. Official score reports should be sent separately. Note that your unofficial GMAT scores will not include the AWA (analytical writing score). You may leave the AWA score blank on your application form.
I can't get an official transcript from my university by the deadline. What should I do?
You may submit an unofficial transcript with your application package and request that your school send an official transcript to us as soon as possible.
What is the structure of the Stanford Sloan Master's Program academic year?
The year begins in the beginning of July, and ends with graduation in mid-June. The Program consists of four academic terms, each approximately 10 weeks long (Summer, Autumn, Winter, Spring). You will enroll in approximately 4 courses each term, some of which will be required core courses, others that will be of your choosing.
What teaching methods are used?
Courses throughout the entire academic program are taught using methods that vary by the individual faculty member and the material being taught. These include lectures, discussions, case studies, computer simulations, group projects, presentations by business leaders and students, and role-playing. The process is highly interactive and Fellows are expected to contribute vigorously to class discussion.
What is the policy on grades?
To be awarded the Master of Science in Management degree, Sloan participants are graded on their coursework and must maintain satisfactory academic standing. Sloan Fellows receive a final grade in each course. Grades are not posted at the GSB and information on grades will not be transmitted to any sponsoring organization without authorization of the Sloan Fellow. Details of the grading criteria are provided on entry to the Program.
How do I decide which classes to take?
Sloan core courses are required. In addition, approximately 100 elective courses are offered each year. Sloan Fellows may select elective courses under a competitive bidding system created to cope with the high demand for some specific classes. Some electives are not offered every year and course content may change from one year to the next. In addition to written descriptions, faculty describe their upcoming elective courses at lunchtime sessions presented before each quarter's registration process begins.
When do classes begin?
The academic program begins in the beginning of July.
Do I need to prepare by taking summer courses before the academic year begins?
The required core curriculum assumes no prior knowledge of business. However, the core courses do require a comfort with, and facility for, quantitative concepts as well as basic skills using a computer spreadsheet program. If you do not have a strong quantitative background and basic computer skills, you may wish to take a calculus or statistics course before you enroll and familiarize yourself with a spreadsheet program.
Are the study trips a part of the Stanford Sloan Master's Program?
There are two study trips during the program. These trips are a required part of the academic curriculum—unless special arrangements are made with the Sloan Program director. The study trips offer Sloan Fellows a unique opportunity to meet with leaders in business and government to discuss leadership challenges and strategies. Domestic study trips include the Pacific Northwest, New York City and Washington, D.C.
What percentage of the Sloan population is international?
In recent Sloan classes, over 60% of the Fellows come from outside the U.S. representing approximately 21 different nations. Many participants have lived and worked in more than one nation, and many who hold U.S. passports also have experience working internationally.
What are the educational backgrounds of Sloan Fellows?
Most of our competitive applicants have completed the equivalent of the U.S. bachelor's degree (16 years of education, including primary and secondary schooling) and many have advanced degrees.
How do I receive a visa?
Enrolling students are issued an I-20 or DS-2019 form (with which students apply for either an F-1 or a J-1 visa) through Stanford University. Detailed information will be sent upon your admission to the Stanford Sloan Program.
Can I get on-campus housing?
Stanford housing is available to Sloan Fellows; applications are due in early May. Assignments are made by lottery but typically all Sloan Fellows have been assigned Stanford housing. On-campus housing is suitable for single Fellows, couples, and couples with children.