Embarking on an MBA journey is a significant decision, and understanding the nuances of the program is crucial. In this guide, we delve into the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Program, offering a detailed exploration of the Class of 2025 profile, insights from the employment report for the Class of 2023, crucial application deadlines, the cost of attendance breakdown, and an in-depth overview of the scholarships available to prospective students. Whether you’re considering joining the Kenan-Flagler community or simply seeking comprehensive information, this guide aims to be your go-to resource.
Class Profile
The UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School’s Full-Time MBA program for the class of 2025 reflects a dynamic and diverse group of individuals who bring a wealth of experiences and perspectives to the academic environment. Let’s delve into the key statistics that define this cohort.
| Category | Data |
| Class Size | 253 |
| Average GMAT Score | 696 |
| Average GPA (from U.S. schools) | 3.42 |
| Non-Business Background | 53% |
| Female | 33% |
| Average Age | 28 |
| Average Years of Work Experience | 5 |
| U.S. Minorities* | 26% |
| Underrepresented Populations** | 13% |
| International | 34% |
| Military | 14% |
Insights into the Numbers
Class Size: With a total of 253 students, the class size is carefully curated to foster a close-knit and collaborative learning environment.
Academic Achievements: The average GMAT score of 696 and an average GPA of 3.42 from U.S. schools reflect the high academic caliber of the incoming class.
Diverse Backgrounds: A notable 53% of the students come from non-business backgrounds, indicating a rich diversity of perspectives and experiences that will contribute to a holistic learning environment.
Gender Diversity: The program places a strong emphasis on gender diversity, with 33% of the class being female, reflecting the commitment to creating an inclusive space for all.
Age and Experience: The average age of 28 and an average of 5 years of work experience showcase a mix of early and mid-career professionals, contributing to a dynamic exchange of professional insights within the cohort.
Diversity in Ethnicity: The class is inclusive, with 26% representing U.S. minorities* and 13% from underrepresented populations** by U.S. citizens. This diversity encompasses individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, fostering a global and multicultural perspective.
International Presence: A significant 34% of the class comprises international students, further enhancing the global nature of the MBA program.
Military Background: UNC Kenan-Flagler takes pride in its commitment to individuals with military experience, with 14% of the class having a military background.
UNC Kenan Flagler MBA Employment Report
The UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School’s MBA program for the Class of 2023 has once again demonstrated exceptional success in post-graduation employment, as revealed by the latest employment report. The data showcases not only competitive compensation packages but also the diverse range of industries and functions that graduates have entered.
Employment Overview
| Category | Data |
| Average Base Salary | $146,779 |
| Average Signing Bonus | $34,555 |
| Job Offers (3 months post-graduation) | 89% |
| Job Accepts (3 months post-graduation) | 89% |
Compensation Details
| Category | Mean | Median |
| Average Base Salary | $146,779 | $141,300 |
| Average Signing Bonus | $34,555 | $30,000 |
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Median Salary | % of Students |
| Financial Services | $175,000 | 28% |
| Consulting | $175,000 | 23.5% |
| Real Estate | $125,000 | 13% |
| Technology | $142,800 | 12% |
| Healthcare (Including Products & Services) | $127,500 | 8% |
| Energy | $130,000 | 6.5% |
| Consumer Packaged Goods | $127,000 | 2% |
| Transportation & Logistics Services | $122,500 | 2% |
| Retail | $120,000 | 2% |
| Other* | $125,000 | 3% |
Employment by Function
Finance:
| Function | Median Salary | % of Students |
| Investment Banking | $175,000 | 38.5% |
| Real Estate | $125,000 | 16% |
| Industry Finance | $136,000 | 12% |
| Private Equity | $135,000 | 3% |
| Capital Markets & Investment Management | $150,000 | 3% |
| Banking (non-Investment Banking) | $125,000 | 2% |
| Venture Capital | $130,000 | 1% |
| Private Wealth Management | $150,000 | 1% |
Consulting and Others:
| Function | Median Salary | % of Students |
| Consulting | $175,000 | 32% |
| Marketing/Sales | $130,000 | 9.5% |
| General Management | $130,000 | 8% |
| Operations/Logistics | $124,000 | 5% |
| Other** | $130,000 | 7% |
Observations
- Competitive Compensation: The class of 2023 boasts an impressive average base salary of $146,779, coupled with a substantial average signing bonus of $34,555, showcasing the program’s ability to prepare graduates for financially rewarding careers.
- Diverse Industry Placements: The diversity in industry placements is evident, with a significant portion of graduates entering Financial Services and Consulting. This variety reflects the program’s adaptability to changing industry trends and demands.
- Finance Dominance: Finance emerges as a dominant field, with high median salaries across various finance functions, such as Investment Banking, Real Estate, and Private Equity.
- Consulting Excellence: Consulting stands out with a median salary of $175,000, attracting a substantial portion of the class. This highlights the program’s strength in preparing students for strategic and advisory roles.
- Broad Range of Functions: Graduates also find success in functions beyond finance and consulting, with Marketing/Sales, General Management, and Operations/Logistics being notable areas of interest.
MBA Application Deadlines
| Round | Submission Deadline | GMAT/GRE Waiver Deadline | Decision Release | Deposit Deadline |
| Round 1 | October 16, 2023 | October 2, 2023 | December 11, 2023 | January 12, 2024 |
| Round 2 | January 8, 2024 | December 25, 2023 | March 11, 2024 | April 12, 2024 |
| Round 3* | March 4, 2024 | February 19, 2024 | April 22, 2024 | May 17, 2024 |
| Round 4 | April 29, 2024 | April 15, 2024 | May 20, 2024 | June 7, 2024 |
*Round 3 is the final deadline for international applicants.
The Admissions Committee requires all applicants seeking a GMAT/GRE waiver to submit requests by the test waiver deadline for each round. Late submissions may be denied or moved to the next round.
Cost of Attendance
Tuition and Fees (Per Academic Year)
| Category | North Carolina Residents | Non-North Carolina Residents |
| Tuition and Mandatory Fees | $53,552 | $71,364 |
| Additional Costs | $1,195 | $1,195 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $54,747 | $72,559 |
Note: Tuition and fees are finalized each summer before the fall semester, with expected increases of 3-10% annually.
The additional costs include a $345 orientation fee and $850 MBA Student Association dues. These fees are not included in the financial aid budget.
Financial Aid Budget (Per Academic Year)
| Category | North Carolina Residents | Non-North Carolina Residents |
| Tuition and Mandatory Fees | $53,552 | $71,364 |
| Total (with Living Expenses) | $84,010 | $101,822 |
Living Expenses (Per Academic Year)
| Category | Per Month | Per Academic Year |
| Books | N/A | $1,290 |
| Food | $674 | $6,068 |
| Health Insurance | $309 | $2,784 |
| Housing | $1,628 | $14,648 |
| Miscellaneous | $211 | $1,900 |
| Direct Loan Fee | N/A | $306 |
| Grad PLUS Loan Fee | N/A | $1,690 |
| Travel | $197 | $1,772 |
| Total Living Expenses | $3,019 | $30,458 |
It’s essential to note that these figures represent estimates and are subject to change based on university approvals and budget considerations. Prospective students are encouraged to refer to the University Cashier’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
MBA Scholarships
For those contemplating the enriching journey of UNC Kenan-Flagler’s Full-Time MBA Program, it’s a commendable step towards investing in a career that promises substantial returns. Recognizing the financial commitment involved, the school extends a helping hand through fellowship awards, a resource that nearly 50% of UNC Kenan-Flagler students benefit from.
Fellowships are granted primarily to candidates who exhibit:
- An outstanding track record in academic and professional achievements.
- Diverse life experiences.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Robust leadership potential.
The process is seamless – there’s no need for a separate application. All applicants to the Full-Time MBA program are automatically considered for fellowships during the admissions process. Successful candidates are informed of their fellowship awards at the time of admission.
Types of Fellowships
- Premier Fellowships: These are the most prestigious, offering full annual tuition and fees, a $5,000 stipend, and inclusion in a fellows-only resume guide. Noteworthy premier fellowships include the Carolyn and Harold Anderson MBA Fellowship, Bank of America MBA Fellowship, and the Tiger MBA Fellowship.
- Full Tuition Fellowships: Covering all tuition and fees, these fellowships are awarded based on academic distinction, exceptional work experience, and personal qualities. They are open to students of all citizenships and academic backgrounds.
- Partial Tuition Fellowships: Awarded annually on the basis of academic achievement and often specific career goals.
- Individual Awards: UNC Kenan-Flagler offers a variety of individual fellowships such as the Calvin Atwood Fellowship, Norman Block MBA Fellowship, and the Starling Fellowship, among others.
External Fellowships
- Consortium for Graduate Study in Management Fellowship: UNC Kenan-Flagler proudly participates in the Consortium, aimed at increasing diversity in business education and leadership.
- Forté Fellows Program: Designed to increase the number of women in business, the Forté Foundation selects Fellows based on leadership and achievement, with no separate application required.
- Reaching Out MBA (ROMBA) Fellowships: A joint effort between prominent business school programs and Reaching Out MBA, these fellowships support out LGBT+ and active ally business leaders, providing a minimum $20,000 scholarship and exclusive leadership programming.
Whether through premier, full tuition, or partial tuition fellowships, UNC Kenan-Flagler is dedicated to ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder the pursuit of a transformative MBA experience.
Final Thoughts
As we conclude this guide, we hope the information provided has equipped you with a thorough understanding of the UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Program. From the diverse and accomplished Class of 2025 to the impressive employment outcomes of the Class of 2023, critical application deadlines, an insight into the cost of attendance, and the array of scholarships available, each aspect contributes to the holistic experience offered by this esteemed institution. Make informed decisions, consider your goals, and embark on a transformative journey with confidence. The doors to a world-class MBA education at UNC Kenan-Flagler await you.
