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EMBA Application & Admissions

Your academic, professional, and personal backgrounds. They could be anything. But a thirst for knowledge and desire to build a global network? Inspirational leadership? Grounded awareness? Those are crucial.

Engaging our alumni in the admissions process is key. Exceptional quality and diversity in each class are guaranteed.
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What you will need

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Min. 8-10 years of post-graduate work experience

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Extensive managerial experience

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First academic degree or educational equivalent

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(self-) employment

The application process

We want to get a feel for who you are and the impact you want to make. So first, we will ask you about your experience, career, and why you want to study for the Executive MBA. 

We might ask you to share your CV and LinkedIn profile with us before we speak. That way, when we do, we will already know a little about your background. 

The call will be held privately one-to-one with a member of our admissions team. It will also be an opportunity for you to find out more about us and the program.

After we confirm your eligibility, we will invite you to make an application via the Online Application Center. You can submit your application at any time, on any day before the final deadline. These are the documents you will need:

  • Your CV
    An up-to-date version that includes all your most recent experience, training, and qualifications.
  • Two letters of recommendation
    One from your supervisor or close colleague and another one from a customer, supplier, or previous employer. The people you choose should use this template to write their recommendation and send it to emba[at]whu.edu
  • Diplomas and transcripts
    One from each university you have studied at. In case your university degree is not recognized in Germany or you do not hold a first higher education degree, you will be asked to conduct an Executive Assessment or GMAT in addition to the general admissions process.
  • Proof of proficiency in English (for non-native speakers)
    We accept TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo
  • €200 application fee
    Which must be paid before your interview

We accept diplomas and university transcripts in German or English. All other documents must be written in or translated into English. 

Following the approval of your application, we will invite you to book an interview. 

The interview will last for about an hour and a half and be carried out by two interviewers – a senior Kellogg-WHU representative and a member of our alumni community. The three of you will discuss your career, managerial experience and current role in detail.

You can find available dates by checking the program event calendar or contacting our EMBA Admissions Team. 

Remote arrangements are possible, but we recommend attending in-person so that you have the opportunity to visit classes and explore campus.

You should receive a decision from our Admissions Board within two weeks. It will be based on an evaluation of your experience, expertise, academic track record, management and leadership achievements, and potential.

If your application is successful, you will have two weeks to accept, defer, or decline a place to study in the program. 

After choosing to accept or defer your offer and submitting all required application documents, we will send you a digital study contract. When we receive your signed copy, your enrolment will begin. 

Finally, you will hear from our program managers – your first point of contact throughout your time studying in the program. They will be in touch to help you prepare for your first module.

Apply online anytime

We accept applications throughout the year. But bear in mind that places on each intake are limited and that it is a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to complete visa applications and fully explore financing options before the program starts. 

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In their own words

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Bruno Neves Esteves
Class of 2019
"During my own admission process, the conversation I had with one Kellogg-WHU alumni was crucial. That was the moment I understood that being part of Kellogg-WHU would be more than an experience; it would be a change of direction in my life."
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Anton Kulikov
Class of 2023
"Communicating with the Program Team and Alumni, I felt belonging to a new global family - and that is a very heart-touching experience, as you feel supported and important for everyone around."
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Nils Kohle
Class of 2016
"The real and lasting benefit of the program was all the people you meet around the globe. The team-based approach ensures an enduring professional network and lifelong friendships."
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