Get answers to frequently asked questions about the Chicago Booth Summer Business Scholars Program.
What is the length of the program?
The Summer Business Scholars Program is a three-week program. The 2013 dates are Saturday, July 13, to Saturday, August 3. Students will be required to check in on Saturday, July 13, and begin classes on Monday, July 16.
What is a typical day like?
Most days, scholars will be in class from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To supplement the academic experience, scholars will also attend additional programming from full-time Chicago Booth departments, faculty, and company visits.
What companies have students visited in the past?
Our company visits have included the Chicago Board of Trade, Kraft, United Airlines, Boston Consulting Group, Abbott Laboratories, Exelon, Grubhub, Sears Holding, and DraftFCB.
What should I wear?
Classroom attire is casual (shorts, jeans, t-shirts). Company visits, etiquette luncheon, and graduation require business attire. Summers in Chicago tend to be warm and humid; however, our weather is often unpredictable. We recommend bringing an umbrella, light jacket, and/or long-sleeved attire as well.
Will I have free time during the Summer Business Scholars Program? (SBSP)
There is no required programming on the weekends. The program will offer organized optional social events during this time.
What are you looking for in a scholar?
While there are no minimum GPA or grade requirements, we are looking for talented, motivated, and bright students who exhibit leadership and a passion for learning. Our scholars are academically successful, have leadership experience, volunteer in the community, and can express to the admissions committee why they are a good fit for the program and what they feel they will gain by attending it.
What are your application deadlines
Consult the application process page for details on deadlines for admission.
What is the average age of a scholar?
The program is designed for college undergraduates and recent college graduates. The average age of the 2011 class was 22. The typical age range is 19 to 25.
Can I attend if I do not have a business background
Absolutely! Students of all majors have been successful in this program. Our instructors understand the diverse backgrounds of our scholars and will teach in a way that is effective for everyone. It is important that you also complete the pre-reading assignments, study hard, and participate in class discussions.
Who should write a letter of recommendation?
You will want to select someone who can effectively evaluate your academic and/or work performance as this letter is required in order for your application to be considered complete.
Are program candidates interviewed?
No, we do not hold interviews for acceptance into the program.
Do I need to take the GMAT or GRE to attend this program?
No, GMAT or GRE scores are not required for admissions. However, you may submit your scores as part of your application if you have taken these tests.
Will I receive a letter grade in each class?
Yes, each instructor will submit grades to the program coordinators, which will be entered into the university system. You will receive a University of Chicago transcript in the mail after all grades are submitted. If you would like to take these classes pass/fail, the program coordinators must be notified prior to the start of the program.
Will I receive credit for this program?
The University of Chicago does not give credit for the program; however, scholars can petition their home intuitions for credit if they choose to do so. Each Summer Business Scholars course consists of 15.5 hours of lecture, discussion, and case analysis in the classroom for a total of 46.5 classroom instruction hours. Scholars are given homework assignments, final exams, and receive a final grade at the conclusion of each course.
Who are the SBSP instructors?
The classes are taught by a combination of adjunct professors and full-time Chicago Booth PhD students, who are recommended to the program by Chicago Booth faculty. Scholars will receive the opportunity to meet and interact with full-time Chicago Booth faculty during lunch discussions.
If I am from Chicago, can I live at home to reduce the program fee?
Unfortunately, this is not possible. You will receive a number of group project assignments from your instructors, and will need to work on them in the evening. In addition to homework, we feel living at the residence hall is part of the SBSP experience. You will get to know scholars from across the country and the world.
How much is the program fee?
The program fee for the 2013 SBSP will be $6,300. This cost includes class instruction, course materials, transportation to and from program events, departmental presentations, company visits, social events, meals, and housing.
If I am accepted, do I need to pay a deposit for the program?
Yes, a nonrefundable $1,000 deposit is due at the time of acceptance in the program.
Is financial aid available?
We do have a limited number of merit-based scholarship opportunities available. All admitted scholars will be considered, and those decisions will be made in late spring. There is no separate application required. In addition, we encourage students to seek financial assistance through other avenues (i.e., home institutions, employers, scholarship programs, or lending institutions). If you have questions about this, please contact the program administrator.
If I am an international student currently studying at a US institution, do I need to apply for another student visa?
No, you can attend the program with the student visa you have with your home institution.
If I am international student currently studying at a US institution and will graduate the year I attend the SBSP, do I need to apply for another student visa?
No, but you will need to transfer your SEVIS record from your current institution to the University of Chicago. Learn how to transfer your SEVIS record.
If I have a B1/B2 visa do I need to apply for another visa?
Yes, the B visa is a tourist visa. Since you will engage in study while attending the program, you will need to apply for a student visa. Obtaining a student visa will not cancel a B visa. You will have two types of visas in your passport.
Am I allowed to remain in the US and travel after the program?
Yes, you have 60-day a grace period from the end date listed on your I-20.
How long will it take for me to obtain a visa?
Each consulate has different visa wait times. View locations of consulates and visa wait times.