Why is it beneficial to apply early?

The Flores MBA program generally decides upon financial awards early in the calendar year. If you are seeking financial aid, you are strongly urged to apply early.

Which of the admission criteria are most important?

Admission to the Flores MBA program is selective and competitive. The Admissions Committee considers each application individually, selecting well-rounded candidates who demonstrate academic achievement and professional promise. Candidates may be invited to an official interview with the Admissions Board. The following minimum admission requirements must be met:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. institution or the equivalent from a foreign institution
• A minimum grade-point average (GPA) of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) on all undergraduate work completed and graduate attempted
• An acceptable score on the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
• Acceptance by the Flores MBA Committee Admissions Board
• Previous work experience is desirable but not required

Can I find out my application status by calling the office?

You may call the Office of Graduate Admissions at 225-578-3211 between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm (CST) or visit the Graduate Admissions Web page.  You may also contact the graduate advisor in the Flores MBA program, Stepanie Cancienne Hedge at 225-578-8867.

Do I need to have a degree in business administration or in a similar major to be admitted to the Flores MBA program?

No, the undergraduate degree can be in any field. 49% of our students hold non-business undergraduate degrees, including education, engineering, journalism, geography, political science, criminal justice, kinesiology and history.

When should I apply?

Our final application deadline is May 15 (January 25 for international students). We review applications as soon as they are complete and we usually admit our first students in January. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications as soon as they have decided to apply.

Must I have all the prerequisites completed before I apply? Can I apply if I haven't taken the GMAT/TOEFL* yet?

You may apply at any time, but you cannot be admitted until test scores have been submitted to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Also, your file will not be reviewed until we have received the appropriate scores. Likewise, you may submit your references after applying. But sending all of your documents as early as possible will increase your chance of bettering other competitive candidates and being admitted. (*Only international students.)

How do I apply to take the GMAT?

You can apply for the GMAT test at the offical MBA website.

How should I prepare for the GMAT?

The official MBA website provides free test-prep software and helpful test-taking strategies.  You can also purchase the official GMAT review guides from the website, as well as at your local bookstore.  There are many other companies that produce GMAT review literature that can also be found at any bookstore.  In addition, companies such as the Princeton Review offer classroom courses and tutoring programs to better prepare you for the GMAT.  Please check with our office for possible GMAT test prep courses.

Can my GRE score replace the GMAT requirement?

No, the Flores MBA Program requires a GMAT score.

What is the GMAT/TOEFL institution code for LSU?

The GMAT program code for Full-Time MBA is 16D-L6-57, Professional MBA is 16D-L6-90 and Executive MBA is 16D-L6-86.

What is the minimum GMAT score you will accept?

We do not set a minimum acceptable score for the GMAT; however we prefer scores to be at least 600.  The class of 2009 had an average GMAT score of 640.

Is it possible to get admitted without work experience?

Yes, each year a considerable percent of applicants are admitted immediately after completing their undergraduate degree. However, other aspects of your application must be strong.

Are scholarships offered?

All accepted students are automatically considered for the scholarships awarded through the College of Business. Scholarships are awarded to the top 10-15% of the incoming class based on need and/or prior academic performance.

Do you accept credits from other institutions? From another LSU major?

No. We do not accept credits from other institutions. This also means it is not possible to start your degree at one institution and transfer to LSU. You need to start the program in the Fall semester with the incoming class.  Credits from other graduate programs at LSU are accepted on a case by case basis. Please call the office if you are in this position and would like to discuss it further.

Can I take MBA classes early?

No. You cannot take MBA classes early.

How many credits will I need complete in the full-time program?

There are 52 credit hours in the Flores Full-Time MBA program.

How much of a time commitment is the Flores Full-Time MBA program?

Think of the full-time MBA experience as a full-time job. Besides classes, you will spend a substantial amount of time outside of class working on team projects, attending events, and becoming an active member of the Flores MBA program.

What is a cohort and how do I join one?

When the program starts, full-time MBA students will be assigned to "cohorts," groups of 20-25 students. Your cohort becomes your community on campus and you take all of your required courses together.

Can I have more than one concentration?

Yes. You will have 15 hours of elective classes which you may use to get one or two specializations.

Do I have to complete a summer internship?

Internships are not required, but strongly recommended. The summer internship between your first and second years is an ideal opportunity to develop professional skills in a real business setting, earn money, and secure network contacts and mentors for career development.

I'd like to find out more. Would it be possible to meet some of your staff and current students?

Yes. We will be happy to arrange for you to attend one of our regular Information Sessions, or to come in and meet with our staff and current students. You are also welcome to come in to visit an MBA class. Please contact our office:

Flores MBA Program
E. J. Ourso College of Business
3176 Patrick F. Taylor Hall
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
Telephone: 225-578-8867
E-mail: busmba@lsu.edu

How do I get to campus?

Directions to campus can be obtained here.