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Indiana Kelley MBA Program Overview (2025)
The Indiana University Kelley School of Business, founded in 1920, is located in Bloomington, Indiana. With a rich history spanning over a century, Kelley has consistently been recognized as one of the top business schools in the United States. It is widely recognized for its collaborative learning environment, strong career outcomes, and emphasis on leadership development. The Kelley MBA program is known for its immersive curriculum, global business experiences, and extensive alumni network. It consistently ranks among the top business schools in the U.S., attracting students seeking a well-rounded education with strong corporate innovation and connections.
Indiana University Business School Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rates for Indiana University's Kelley School of Business vary depending on the program and admission pathway:
- Undergraduate Direct Admission - In recent years, the Kelley School has experienced a significant increase in applications for its undergraduate degree program. For the Class of 2028, the school received a record 27,000 applications for 2,000 available seats, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 7.5%. This marks a substantial decrease from previous years; for instance, the Class of 2023 had an acceptance rate of 34.83%.
- Full-Time MBA Program - The acceptance rate for Kelley's full-time MBA program is approximately 38%. Admitted students have an average GMAT score of 680 and typically possess around five years of work experience.
- Online MBA Program - Kelley's online MBA program has an acceptance rate of 29%. Applicants have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.4.
Read: Indiana University Kelley MBA Acceptance Rates
Indiana Kelley MBA Class Profile
- Location: Bloomington, Indiana
- Class Size: 96 students
- Average Work Experience: 6.4 years
- Average GMAT Score: 685
- Average GRE Scores: Quantitative 164; Verbal 158
- Average GPA: 3.40
- Gender Diversity: 38% women
- International Representation: 58% international students
- Minority Representation: 21%
- Average Age: 30 years
- Age Range: 23 to 47 years
- Acceptance Rate: 23%
Indiana University Kelley MBA Cost — Tuition & Fees
Full-Time MBA Program (Bloomington Campus):
- Tuition:
- Indiana Residents: $29,573 per year
- Non-Residents/International Students: $55,695 per year
- Mandatory Fees: $2,405 per year
- Estimated Additional Expenses:
- Housing and Food: $16,172
- Books and Supplies: $1,950
- Transportation: $2,958
- Miscellaneous: $4,078
- Total Estimated Annual Cost:
- Indiana Residents: $57,136
- Non-Residents/International Students: $83,258
Online MBA Program (Kelley Direct):
- Total Tuition: $94,944.42 (based on 54 credit hours)
- Additional Fees: $2,000 (covers costs for required in-person courses)
Evening MBA Program (Indianapolis Campus):
- Tuition per Credit Hour:
- Indiana Residents: $943
- Non-Residents: $1,546
- Estimated Total Tuition (54 credit hours):
- Indiana Residents: $50,922
- Non-Residents: $83,484
- Additional Fees: Approximately $515 per quarter (varies based on credit hours taken)
Indiana University Kelley Business School Employment Report
- Mean Base Salary: $135,742
- Mean Signing Bonus: $32,232
Employment by Function:
| Function | Percentage of Acceptances | Median Base Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consulting | 29.41% | $175,000 | $72,000–$205,000 |
| Finance | 18.82% | $128,000 | $95,000–$175,000 |
| General Management | 14.12% | $125,000 | $95,000–$155,000 |
| Marketing/Sales | 30.59% | $125,000 | $72,800–$167,000 |
| Operations/Logistics | 3.53% | $125,000 | $94,236–$147,000 |
| Other | 3.53% | $80,100 | $70,000–$114,000 |
Employment by Industry:
| Industry | Percentage of Acceptances | Median Base Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consulting | 24.14% | $175,000 | $98,000–$192,000 |
| Consumer Packaged Goods | 13.79% | $125,000 | $72,800–$128,000 |
| Financial Services | 8.05% | $162,500 | $130,000–$175,000 |
| Healthcare (including products) | 13.79% | $134,000 | $105,000–$155,000 |
| Manufacturing | 16.09% | $125,000 | $105,000–$155,000 |
| Technology | 13.79% | $128,500 | $80,565–$167,000 |
| Transportation and Logistics | 4.60% | $115,000 | $94,236–$118,450 |
| Other | 5.75% | $120,000 | $80,100–$121,400 |
Employment by Geographic Region:
| Region | Percentage of Acceptances | Median Base Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Atlantic | 6.49% | $142,800 | $80,100–$192,000 |
| Midwest | 55.84% | $126,000 | $72,000–$205,000 |
| Northeast | 14.29% | $148,500 | $95,000–$180,000 |
| South | 7.79% | $104,118 | $72,800–$118,450 |
| Southwest | 10.39% | $128,000 | $70,000–$175,000 |
| West | 5.19% | $156,375 | $142,800–$192,000 |
These statistics demonstrate Kelley's commitment to providing its MBA graduates with diverse and lucrative career opportunities across various sectors and regions.
Indiana Kelley Application Overview
Indiana Kelley Programs & Degrees
- Traditional, Full-Time MBA: A two-year program focusing on developing leadership and managerial skills through a comprehensive curriculum.
- Executive MBA: Designed for experienced professionals aiming to enhance their strategic thinking and leadership capabilities while continuing to work.
- Deferred MBA: Allows college seniors to secure a spot in a future Kelley MBA class, provided they gain at least two years of professional work experience prior to enrollment.
- Online MBA (Kelley Direct): This program offers flexibility for working professionals to earn an MBA online, with optional in-person experiences.
- Joint Degrees: Opportunities to combine the MBA with other graduate school programs, such as law or healthcare administration, to tailor educational experiences to specific career goals.
Indiana Kelley MBA Deadlines
The application deadlines for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle are as follows:
- Round 1: October 15, 2024
- Decision Released: December 20, 2024
- Round 2: January 5, 2025
- Decision Released: March 15, 2025
- Round 3: March 1, 2025
- Decision Released: April 30, 2025
- Final Round: April 15, 2025
- Decision Released: May 31, 2025
Note: Early application is encouraged, especially for priority consideration for merit-based financial aid.
Learn more here: Indiana Kelley MBA Application Deadlines (2024-2025)
Indiana Kelley MBA Requirements
- Application Checklist:
- GMAT/GRE Score: Applicants must submit scores from either the GMAT or GRE. Waivers are available for candidates with strong academic backgrounds or relevant professional experience.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended are required.
- Resume: A current resume detailing educational background, work experience, and any extracurricular activities.
- Essays: Responses to specific essay prompts provided in the application.
- Letter of Recommendation: One professional letter of recommendation, preferably from a current or recent supervisor.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $75 is required.
- Indiana Kelley MBA Essays:
- Essay 1: Discuss your immediate post-MBA professional goals. How will your professional experience, when combined with a Kelley MBA degree, allow you to achieve these goals? Should the short-term goals you have identified not materialize, what alternate career paths might you consider? (500 words)
- Essay 2: Please respond to one of the following short essay prompts. (300 words)
- My greatest memory is…
- I’m most afraid of…
- My greatest challenge has been…
- I’m most proud of…
- Optional Essay: Is there anything else that you think we should know as we evaluate your application? If you believe your credentials and essays represent you fairly, you shouldn’t feel obligated to answer this question. (300 words)
Read: Indiana University Kelley MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples
- Indiana Kelley MBA Interview: The interview process is conducted by invitation only after an initial review of applications. Interviews provide the admissions committee with a deeper understanding of the candidate’s fit within the program. Interview questions typically cover:
- Career aspirations and how Kelley fits into them.
- Leadership experiences and problem-solving abilities.
- Behavioral questions about teamwork and professional experiences.
- Knowledge of the Kelley MBA program and why it is the best fit for the applicant.
Read: How to Nail Your Indiana University Kelley MBA Interview: Overview, Questions, & Tips
- Indiana University Kelley MBA Letters of Recommendation: Kelley requires one letter of recommendation as part of the MBA application. The school prefers a professional recommendation from a current or recent supervisor who can evaluate an applicant’s leadership abilities, teamwork skills, and career potential. If a direct supervisor is not available, a previous manager or a senior colleague may serve as the recommender. Instead of submitting a traditional letter, recommenders will complete a structured form with short responses assessing the applicant’s qualifications.
Read: Indiana University Kelley MBA Letters of Recommendation Guide - Questions, Tips, & Examples
Indiana University Kelley MBA Curriculum & Class Structure
The Kelley School of Business MBA program is designed to equip MBA students with comprehensive business knowledge and leadership skills. The curriculum emphasizes both foundational business principles and specialized electives, ensuring that Kelley graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths.
Year 1
The first year centers around the Integrated Core (I-Core) curriculum, a rigorous program that strengthens competencies in key areas such as finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and leadership. MBA students engage in case studies, group projects, and experiential learning opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Year 2
In the second year, MBA students customize their MBA experience by selecting electives aligned with their career aspirations. Options include majors in Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Finance, Global Supply Chain Management, Information Technology Management, Marketing, and Strategic Management. This personalized approach allows Kelley students to delve deeper into their chosen fields.
How to Get Into Indiana University Kelley Business School
Demonstrate Academic Excellence
A strong academic background is essential for admission to the Kelley MBA program. A competitive GPA, preferably above 3.3, signals your ability to handle rigorous coursework. Additionally, a solid GMAT or GRE score strengthens your application. While test waivers are available, scoring well—typically above 680 on the GMAT or a strong GRE equivalent—can set you apart. If your academic record has any weaknesses, consider addressing them in an optional essay or through relevant coursework.
Showcase Professional Experience and Leadership
Kelley values applicants with substantial work experience, typically around five years, but quality matters more than quantity. Admissions look for career progression, leadership potential, and impact in your roles. Highlight significant company-based consulting projects or related projects, management experience, or instances where you demonstrated initiative and problem-solving skills. If you have limited experience, leverage a summer internship, entrepreneurial ventures, or industry certifications to demonstrate your business acumen.
Craft a Standout Application
Your application should clearly define your career goals and why Kelley is the right fit. Essays should be concise and well-structured and demonstrate your unique perspective. Use them to showcase your ambitions, personal motivations, and leadership qualities. Strong letters of recommendation from supervisors or mentors who can vouch for your professional growth and contributions will further strengthen your case. A well-prepared interview is equally important—be ready to discuss your experiences, aspirations, and why you align with Kelley's collaborative culture.
Indiana University Kelley Notable Alumni & Faculty
Alumni
- Mark Cuban: Billionaire entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks.
- E. W. Kelley: Renowned businessman and namesake of the Kelley School of Business.
- John T. Chambers: Former CEO and Chairman of Cisco Systems.
Faculty
- Timothy L. Fort: Eveleigh Professor in Business Ethics, recognized for his contributions to business ethics and peace studies.
- Alan R. Dennis: John T. Chambers Chair of Internet Systems, known for his research in information systems and recipient of the AIS LEO Award.
- Wayne L. Winston: Professor Emeritus renowned for his work in decision and information systems and author of influential texts in operations research.
Get Into Indiana University Kelley Business School With the Help of Experts
Applying to the Kelley School of Business can be a competitive and complex process, requiring a strong application that highlights your academic strengths, professional experience, and personal story. Working with an experienced MBA admissions coach can provide personalized guidance, helping you refine your essays, strengthen your resume, and prepare for interviews. Whether you need help crafting compelling application materials or strategizing your overall approach, expert coaching can significantly improve your chances of success.
Here are three of the most popular MBA admissions consultants for Indiana University Kelley Business School. Browse all available consultants here:
- Ryan V. — An experienced admissions consultant with a strong track record of helping candidates secure spots at top business schools, Ryan specializes in crafting standout essays and interview preparation.
- Hadi H. — With an insider’s perspective on the admissions process, Hadi has helped numerous applicants fine-tune their applications, maximize their strengths, and secure admission to their target MBA programs.
- Arielle A. — A seasoned coach with expertise in MBA admissions strategy, Arielle provides tailored guidance on everything from career goal articulation to strengthening letters of recommendation.
Kelley FAQs
As you explore the Indiana University Kelley School of Business MBA program, you may have some questions. Here are a few commonly asked questions to provide you with further clarity:
What is the average class size?
- The average class size at Kelley School of Business is around 90-100 students, ensuring a conducive learning environment and ample opportunities for networking.
Does Kelley offer scholarships?
- Yes, the school offers various scholarships and financial aid options to qualified candidates. It is advisable to explore the available options and submit your application early to maximize your chances of securing financial assistance.
Are international students eligible to apply?
- Absolutely! Kelley School of Business values diversity and welcomes applications from international students. The MBA program provides a platform for cross-cultural learning and networking.
What career services are available?
- Kelley School of Business boasts a robust career services department, offering extensive resources and support to help students navigate the job market. From resume workshops to mock interviews, career advisors are dedicated to helping you achieve your professional goals.
What are the most popular MBA concentrations at Kelley?
- Kelley offers a variety of MBA majors, with Business Analytics, Marketing, Finance, and Supply Chain Management being among the most popular choices for students.
Does Kelley offer experiential learning opportunities?
- Yes, Kelley provides hands-on learning experiences through global consulting projects, case competitions, industry-focused academies, and leadership development programs.
How strong is the Kelley alumni network?
- With over 130,000 alumni worldwide, Kelley’s extensive network provides valuable mentorship, career connections, and job placement opportunities across industries.
Does Kelley offer part-time or online MBA options?
- Yes, in addition to the full-time MBA, Kelley offers the Kelley Direct Online MBA and the Evening MBA program for working professionals.
What companies recruit from Kelley?
- Top employers such as Amazon, Deloitte, Microsoft, PwC, Eli Lilly, and Procter & Gamble regularly recruit Kelley MBA graduates for leadership and management roles.
How does Kelley support entrepreneurship?
- Kelley’s Johnson Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation provides mentorship, startup resources, and funding opportunities for students looking to launch their own ventures.
