Application Trends Survey – 2023 Summary Report

Overview

Based on responses from nearly 900 graduate business school programs worldwide, the 2023 summary report explores new trends among first-generation applicants and approaches to artificial intelligence; application volume by program type and delivery methods; and diversity enrollment with a focus on women and U.S. underrepresented candidates. 

Quick Facts

• The decline in applications to more selective GME programs may have driven a dip in total global applications, while somewhat selective programs reported growth in their applications.
• MBA and business master’s programs reported higher application growth rates among their more flexible online, hybrid, evening, and weekend programs compared to full-time, in-person programs—with the notable exception of online business master’s programs.
• Applications among women continue to stagnate across degree types and regions, with women only making up the majority of applications to Master of Accounting programs. 
• More than half of U.S. programs reported growth in their program’s applications, with a notable year-over-year rise of programs reporting growth in their domestic applications.