COVID-19 Impact on Wharton MBA Class of 2022
This week, the Wharton School introduced a deferral option for some members of the MBA Class of 2022. In a letter addressed to the class, admissions director Blair Mannix discussed the COVID-19 impact on Wharton admits as well as adjustments to its MBA Pre-Term.
The round 2 deposit deadline of May 4, 2020, still stands. Mannix says Wharton will prioritize deferral requests from international students who cannot start the program due to visa issues.
Other admitted students may receive a deferral on a case-by-case basis. Mannix mentions illness, family circumstances, and other factors outside of their control as reasons that could qualify for the deferment.
As for the MBA Pre-Term for the Class of 2022, Mannix says the event will happen virtually in August. However, Wharton has reduced the fee to $850 (from $2,000) to reflect the new format, she says.
This decision regarding Pre-Term has no bearing on whether the fall term will be virtual, Mannix clarifies. That determination will come down directly from the University of Pennsylvania. However, the likely scenario for instruction in the fall will consist of a combination of in-class and virtual teaching, she adds.
Also, Mannix stresses that prior admissions decisions remain in effect. Wharton will not reconsider any previously submitted applications. (Kellogg recently left the door open to reconsider previously denied applicants from earlier this season.) However, Mannix encourages dinged applicants to reapply next season.
The world needs future leaders who are ready to lead.
Like other peer business schools, Wharton hopes admitted students will take the leap to begin classes this fall despite the uncertainties. The lasting COVID-19 impact on Wharton may end up serving as an inspiration for future leaders.
As Dean Geoffry Garret wrote on LinkedIn just over two months ago, successful organizations require a new style of leadership. His hope? That future leaders will strive to be real. Not heroes. The business community needs leaders who are, in his words, “more committed to a clear set of core values that govern how they choose to help us navigate this new uncertain normal.”
