Apply early
The IMD Executive MBA program has several starting dates each year. As competition is high for places in the program, we recommend that you start the application process as soon as you and your company are sure of your decision.

The application includes:

• Completed and signed application form (PDF, 1064 kB)
• Three letters of recommendation, including one from your company sponsor
• Official transcript of undergraduate university degree
• GMAT score
• Application fee (CHF200)

Application deadline
There is very high demand for this program. As soon as we receive applications, we review them and make acceptance decisions. This means that the class can fill up even several months in advance of the date it actually starts. Hence, we recommended that you apply early. Typically, we respond to all applicants within 3 weeks.

Deadline for advanced-standing applicants: September 15th.
What is 'advanced standing'?

Deadline for regular applicants: You can apply at any time - it is in your best interest to apply early.

Further questions? 
Try consulting our FAQ section, or alternatively contact one of our program advisors:  
FAQ about admissions
Contact a program advisor

We ask for three letters of recommendation, written in English. One letter should come from your sponsor, while the other two should come from individuals qualified to comment on your professional achievements and your career potential. The sponsor’s letter should be completed and signed by an executive who personally knows you and is familiar with the company’s future plans for you.

One of our key criteria in deciding whether to accept someone to the Executive MBA program is whether they will be able to contribute to the learning of everyone else in the class. The letters of recommendation give us an extra assessment of your overall personality, your business achievements and your leadership capabilities, and as such are a critical part of the application.
All information provided in the recommendation letter will be kept strictly confidential.

Download sponsor's letter of recommendation template
Download general letter of recommendation template

Candidates may be asked to come to IMD for an interview, or to take part in a telephone interview or video conference. If an interview is required, you will be notified after we review your completed application. The admissions committee will conduct your interview and will make a final decision afterwards.

Even if you do not have an interview at IMD, we encourage you to visit to learn more about the school and the Executive MBA program. We endeavor to provide campus tours, and classroom visits whenever feasible, and can certainly arrange a meeting with either the program director or the program manager.

You are welcome to visit at any time in the process. In fact, we often recommend that you come and see us before you submit your application. That can help you decide if the school and the program is right for you, and it can help us determine together if you are likely to be right for the program. We believe it's a good idea to do this before you've done your negotiations with your company.
Sign up for a campus visit
Sign up for an information session

What is advanced standing?
Participants with advanced standing can directly enter EMBA e-Module 1, commencing each November. Advanced standing participants pay a reduced fee.

Who qualifies for advanced standing?
Executives who have successfully completed the Program for Executive Development or the Accelerated Executive Development Program may apply for advanced standing.


How to apply
To apply for advanced standing, candidates must complete the Executive MBA admissions process and provide a copy of their PED or AEDP certificate. For more specific information about applying for advanced standing, please contact IMD’s Information and Registration Office (info@imd.ch, +41 21 618 0700).

Please note:
The advanced standing deadline is September 15th. Due to our rolling admissions process, the program may fill up before September 15th. Therefore, we recommend you apply early. Prior completion of the Program for Executive Development or Accelerated Executive Development Program does not guarantee admission to the Executive MBA program.