Columbia Business School MBA Deadlines 2026-2027

The Columbia Business School MBA deadlines for the 2026-2027 admissions season are available in the table below.

In 2023, CBS changed from a rolling admissions process to rounds of specific deadlines. CBS deadlines for August 2027 entry fall in September, January and March. The January Entry, which is for MBA candidates who can forego the summer internship, deadlines are June 17, 2026, and August 13, 2026.

Applicants targeting the full-time MBA at Columbia Business School should note that all materials must be submitted by noon (12 p.m.) Eastern Time on the date of each deadline. Applications will not be reviewed until after each deadline.

Required Materials

A bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution is required for admission to Columbia Business School. Scanned PDF versions of transcripts from each institution should be submitted with the application, encrypted digital copies are requested if offered admission.

All applicants must provide GRE, GMAT, or EA scores. Scores are considered valid for five years after the test date. Applicants must complete two short answer questions and three essays, with the opportunity to include an optional essay of 500 words or less. First-time applications require one recommendation. Re-applicants also need to submit one new recommendation. With at least six months of work experience, the recommendation should come from a current supervisor. If the applicant has worked less than six months at their current firm, other options include a former direct supervisor, or another professional associate senior to the applicant.

The non-refundable $250 application fee should be paid via credit card through the online application system. Fee waivers are available to full-time students, active-duty US military personnel, and members of the Peace Corps, or Teach For All network partners who are currently in service. The Application fee is automatically waived for the Deferred Enrollment Program.

Applications cannot be reviewed until they are complete. Missing required materials, updated test scores, or additional materials must be received by the Admissions Office within three weeks of submission or the application will be withdrawn.

How Does the Interview Process Work?

Interviews are by invitation only and cannot be requested.

Interviews are usually conducted by alumni in or near the applicant’s geographic area. If one is not available, applicants will be invited to interview via telephone or Skype. The interviewer will not be familiar with the application details except for a professional resume if the applicant chooses to provide one. The interviewer will provide a report to the admissions office within one week following the interview.