Kellogg Full-Time MBA application is now live — here’s what’s new

What defines a future Kellogg leader isn’t their resume — it’s their vision for what comes next.

Every year, we meet MBA candidates driven by bold ideas, diverse experiences and a shared commitment to creating meaningful impact. From entrepreneurs and consultants to engineers and nonprofit leaders, Kellogg students bring different perspectives to challenge convention and grow as collaborative leaders.

Applications for the 2026–2027 Full-Time MBA programs are now open, and there’s never been a better time to invest in your next chapter. 

MBA programs that fit your life

For the second year in a row, Kellogg was ranked No.1 in Poets&Quants’ list of the best full-time MBA programs in the United States. The ranking reflects the school’s strength in academic excellence, career outcomes and community experience.

No two leadership journeys look the same. That’s why Kellogg offers multiple full-time MBA options designed to align with your career goals, learning style and professional timeline.

• Two-Year MBA: Our most immersive and flexible program is perfect for students who want to explore a variety of interests while deepening expertise and developing management skills.
• One-Year MBA: Your fastest path to a Kellogg MBA, this option builds on your business expertise and gets you back in the workplace quickly with new skills. You’ll bypass core classes and focus on electives that will help you accelerate your personal and professional goals.
• MBAi Program: Offered jointly with Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering, this program prepares students to lead at the intersection of business strategy and artificial intelligence.
• MMM Program: Consider this dual-degree option — combining an MBA with a Master of Science in Design Innovation from the Segal Design Institute at the McCormick School of Engineering — if you’re drawn to innovation, product management or design strategy.
• JD-MBA Program: This three-year program caters to students who want to become business leaders with legal expertise or pursue a law career with a solid management foundation.
• MD-MBA Program: In this joint-degree program with the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, MD students will supplement an extensive background in medicine with an MBA from Kellogg.  

Want to continue working while you pursue your degree? You might be interested in our No.1-ranked Evening & Weekend MBA or our Executive MBA programs.

If you’re a current college student planning to pursue an MBA one day, secure your spot in a future Kellogg class with the Kellogg Future Leaders program. Or, if you’re just starting your career and hoping to boost your business skills, check out our Master in Management program.  

No matter which path you choose, a business degree from Kellogg is designed to challenge you, expand your thinking and elevate your leadership.  

Changes to Kellogg application essay requirements

Kellogg has introduced updates to the application process for the 2026-27 admissions cycle. These changes reflect our commitment to accessibility, transparency and a more holistic evaluation of each candidate’s strengths, experiences and potential contributions to the Kellogg community.  

The application has become more focused: requirements now include one written essay for all programs and five short video essays for the Full-Time MBA Programs. While this includes two additional brief video responses, each is just 60 seconds, offering a meaningful way to share your story in less time and with less stress than a traditional essay.  

This new approach creates an intentional opportunity for more authentic, in-the-moment reflection, while also enabling the admissions team to gain genuine insights into each applicant. Overall, this shift is designed to create a more approachable experience for candidates. 

Positioning graduates for career growth

We understand that pursuing an MBA is a major investment. At Kellogg, that investment pays off, both right after graduation and well into your career.  

Graduates from the Two-Year MBA Program in the Class of 2025 earned a median total compensation of $205,000, and 90% accepted an offer within six months of graduation. Our career outcomes data shows that Kellogg alumni go on to make their mark across industries — from tech and consulting to healthcare, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and more.  

You’ll be joining a student community that deeply invests in your personal and professional growth: Our students are known for their curiosity, warmth and collaborative spirit. From day one, you’ll be surrounded by peers who will welcome you, challenge you and support you — and who will remain part of your network long after graduation.  

With access to a global alumni network more than 73,000 strong, our graduates are empowered to pursue bold ideas and career goals with the support of an enthusiastic community behind them.  

Deadlines

We’re here to support you every step of the way as you begin your application. Here are the key deadlines for Full-Time MBA applicants:

• Round 1: September 9, 2026
• Round 2: January 6, 2027
• Round 3: March 31, 2027  

Virtual and in-person admissions events

The Kellogg admissions team is also hosting a range of virtual and in-person events. Register for an upcoming admissions event to explore our programs, hear directly from students and alumni and get answers to your questions.   

If you’re ready to lead with purpose, grow alongside a dynamic community and make a lasting impact, we invite you to take the next step by starting your Kellogg application today.  

Start your journey at the Kellogg application portal. Or, request information to learn more about our programs. Questions? Reach out to us at MBAadmissions@kellogg.northwestern.edu. We can’t wait to get to know you.