Want an MBA that doesn’t just teach global business but throws you headfirst into it? Wharton’s Lauder Program isn’t just about international exposure—it’s an immersive, 16-month dual degree that fuses world-class business education with deep cultural and geopolitical fluency. As the first program of its kind in the United States, Lauder pairs a Wharton MBA with an International Studies MA from UPenn’s School of Arts and Sciences. Here, you won’t just study global markets—you’ll navigate them, mastering the language, strategy, and cross-border dynamics that shape the future of business.
If you seek adventure and a truly international experience when it comes to your MBA, read on to learn the top five considerations when applying to Wharton’s Lauder program!
1. Academic Preparedness
Similar to Wharton’s regular competitive MBA, Lauder’s academic stats are among the most competitive across MBA programs–whether we’re talking about GPAs or GMAT/GRE scores. Your undergraduate GPA is ancient history, and there’s not much more that can be done there. So, if it isn’t close to the averages, you may want to buckle down and put in more effort for test prep.
2. Language Proficiency
One of the main application hurdles that sets apart the Lauder program is proving fluency in a second language. If you haven’t spent any time speaking another language, it’s time to start cramming! You’ll be evaluated for language proficiency through a 20- to 30-minute conversation on the phone, culminating in a score for your fluency. There is a minimum level of proficiency required for admission, and applicants can test for multiple languages.
3. Global Perspectives and Experiences
Since Lauder is focused on international business, showcasing times when you’ve broadened or honed your global perspective will be key. Within those experiences, highlighting cross-cultural competency will help make your application stand out from the pile. Whether you grew up abroad, went on self-directed travel, worked internationally, have a best friend from another country, or studied abroad, consider your existing global history and which elements you want to highlight in your application.
4. How You Will Leverage Your Lauder Degree Through Your Career Goals and Objectives
Be sure to dig into Lauder’s mission statement and align it with your goals to display a strong fit to the admissions committee. Connect the gaps in your current skill set with specific Lauder offerings that you’ll take advantage of and contribute to. Akin to other MBA programs, it can’t be overstated that having a clear vision for your post-graduation plans is paramount. Giving the Lauder admissions committee confidence that you’ll be employed—and thriving—after graduation will increase your odds of admission.
5. Your Fit with Lauder’s Culture and Values
Navigating Wharton as a Lauder student is different from the normal Wharton experience. The Lauder students get an earlier start than the rest of the class, which naturally leads to a strong community within the larger Wharton scene. Before applying to Lauder specifically, take some time to consider whether the culture fits with your personality and goals. By demonstrating your alignment with Lauder’s interdisciplinary approach, you can more effectively connect the dots between you and Lauder for the admissions committee—and hopefully find yourself on campus in the fall!
Wharton’s Lauder program is one of a kind. The program is attractive to many aspiring MBAs, with its emphasis on global experience, adventure, and a strong community within the larger Wharton scene. Though the odds of admission are slim at 10–20%, you could be one of the lucky few. Reach out to Stratus Admissions today for a free consultation if you want to evaluate your profile for admission or discuss ways to stand out when you apply to Wharton’s Lauder program!
In Stratus Admissions’ Guide to Getting into the Wharton School, you will find information on a variety of the MBA program’s offerings, such as the Field Application Project, the Venture Initiation Project, Wharton Follies, and the MBA Pub.