MBA Fellowship: Apply to top U.S. Business schools

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MBA fellowship opportunity at top business schools for underrepresented students promoting diversity

The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management: A Complete Guide to Full-Tuition MBA Fellowships for Underrepresented Candidates

The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management (CGSM) represents a unique and impactful initiative aimed at supporting the next generation of diverse business leaders. With a legacy that began in 1966, CGSM continues to offer fully-funded MBA opportunities at top U.S. business schools for students who demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion in management roles [source: cgsm.org].

This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into the CGSM program, its fellowship benefits, eligibility criteria, partner institutions, application procedures, and why it remains a leading pathway for aspiring underrepresented minority (URM) business professionals.

Unlock a full-tuition MBA at top U.S. business schools through The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management. Designed for underrepresented candidates committed to diversity, this prestigious fellowship offers elite access, corporate networking, and lifelong support—empowering future business leaders to create meaningful impact without the burden of student debt.

What is The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management (CGSM)?

The Consortium is a nonprofit alliance of top-tier American business schools and Fortune 500 companies dedicated to enhancing diversity in business education and leadership. Through a centralized application process, CGSM facilitates access to elite MBA programs for students from underrepresented backgrounds. In addition to admissions, the program awards full-tuition MBA Fellowships to selected candidates.

While initially focused on African American, Hispanic American, and Native American students, CGSM now includes all U.S. citizens and permanent residents who can demonstrate a sustained commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their professional environments.

Program Benefits: What the Fellowship Covers

The CGSM fellowship offers substantial financial and professional support, ensuring selected fellows can focus entirely on academic and leadership development without the burden of tuition fees.

Full Financial Coverage

Fellows receive a full-tuition scholarship, including required academic fees, for a two-year MBA at one of the 20 Consortium member schools. This funding alone can exceed $200,000 in total value.

Career Acceleration and Corporate Exposure

Fellows are invited to the Orientation Program & Career Forum (OP)—a signature event held prior to the start of MBA programs. This forum connects students with senior executives and recruiters from over 70 corporate partners, enabling early career networking, internship placements, and job offers even before classes commence.

Lifetime Alumni Network

All fellows become part of a vibrant, purpose-driven alumni network comprising more than 10,000 business professionals working in leadership roles across industries. Consortium alumni benefit from exclusive networking opportunities, mentorship, and

long-term career support.

Eligibility Criteria

CGSM applicants must meet the following general eligibility requirements:

  • Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

  • Commitment to DEI: Should demonstrate significant commitment to promoting inclusion and diversity in corporate leadership, regardless of ethnic background.

  • Academic Readiness: Must possess a competitive academic and professional profile suitable for graduate-level business study.

While the program strongly supports candidates from underrepresented ethnic groups (African American, Hispanic American, Native American), it also welcomes those from other backgrounds who are active allies or champions of DEI in the workplace or community.

List of Partner Business Schools (2025) for MBA Fellowships

Applicants may apply to up to six CGSM partner institutions using one centralized application. Each institution evaluates candidates independently and may award its own fellowship based on merit and ranking.

The following 20 MBA programs (MBA Fellowships) currently participate in the Consortium:

  1. Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper)

  2. Cornell University (Johnson)

  3. Dartmouth College (Tuck)

  4. Emory University (Goizueta)

  5. Georgetown University (McDonough)

  6. Indiana University (Kelley)

  7. New York University (Stern)

  8. Rice University (Jones)

  9. University of California, Berkeley (Haas)

  10. University of Michigan (Ross)

  11. University of North Carolina (Kenan-Flagler)

  12. University of Rochester (Simon)

  13. University of Southern California (Marshall)

  14. University of Texas at Austin (McCombs)

  15. University of Virginia (Darden)

  16. University of Wisconsin-Madison

  17. Washington University in St. Louis (Olin)

  18. Yale University (School of Management)

  19. UCLA (Anderson School of Management)

  20. Duke University (Fuqua School of Business)

Application Timeline for MBA Fellowships: 

To ensure full consideration for both admission and fellowship opportunities, applicants must adhere to the published deadlines:

  • Round 1 Deadline: October 15, 2025

  • Round 2 Deadline: January 5, 2026

Applying in Round 1 provides a higher likelihood of receiving a fellowship, as available funds may decrease in later rounds. Early preparation is recommended for optimal success.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The Consortium offers a streamlined and cost-effective process to apply to multiple schools at once. Here is a breakdown of the steps involved:

Step 1: Create an Account on the CGSM Application Portal

Start by registering at cgsm.org/prospective-students/mba, the official application portal. Complete your profile, including academic background and professional history.

Step 2: Submit Required Materials

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  • Academic transcripts (unofficial versions accepted during the application phase)

  • GMAT or GRE scores

  • Two recommendation letters

  • One general CGSM essay and one diversity-focused statement

  • School-specific essays based on the number of institutions selected

    • Step 3: Rank Your Target Schools

    Applicants can choose and rank up to six participating MBA programs. These rankings are visible to the schools and may influence both admission and funding decisions.

    Step 4: Pay Consolidated Application Fee

    The application fee is tiered, becoming more economical as more schools are selected. This consolidated model reduces the overall cost of applying to multiple institutions.

    Why the Consortium Matters: Long-Term Impact

    Participating in the CGSM fellowship program provides benefits that extend well beyond business school. Graduates often go on to assume influential roles in consulting, finance, tech, non-profits, and government sectors. The shared values among fellows—of social impact, inclusive leadership, and equity—create enduring bonds.

    Many alumni also serve as recruiters, mentors, and advocates for the next generation of MBA students, reinforcing the Consortium’s mission across decades and industries.

    Additional Resources and Affiliates

    Students exploring MBA careers in sustainability and climate-focused business leadership may find value in affiliated networks like ClimateCAP, which partners with leading business schools on climate change and sustainability initiatives.

    Final Thoughts and Takeaway

    The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management continues to be one of the most robust, mission-aligned avenues for underrepresented students seeking access to elite MBA programs without financial burden. With a powerful blend of tuition support, early corporate access, and a long-standing professional community, the CGSM fellowship goes far beyond funding—it redefines what inclusive leadership means in modern business environments.

    Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process early, attend pre-application webinars, and connect with current fellows or alumni for insights. Success in this program is not merely about academic qualifications, but also about aligning with the Consortium’s mission to foster equity in leadership.

    Suggested Review Cycle

    This article should be reviewed and updated every 6 to 12 months to ensure accuracy regarding school participation, deadlines, and eligibility requirements.

    Program Overview Table

    FeatureDetails
    Program NameThe Consortium for Graduate Study in Management
    Host Country / RegionUnited States
    Funded ByConsortium and Partner Schools
    DurationTwo Years (Full MBA Program)
    Study ModeFull-time
    EligibilityU.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents committed to diversity in management
    Financial SupportFull tuition and mandatory fees
    Fields of StudyMBA and Management Studies
    Application DeadlineOctober 15, 2025 (Round 1), January 5, 2026 (Round 2)
    Official Websitecgsm.org

    References

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What is The Consortium for Graduate Study in Management?

    It’s a nonprofit offering full-tuition MBA fellowships to students committed to diversity in business leadership across 20 U.S. partner schools.

    Who can apply for The Consortium MBA fellowship?

    U.S. citizens or permanent residents who actively support diversity, equity, and inclusion in business can apply.

    How many business schools partner with The Consortium?

    The Consortium includes 20 top-tier MBA programs, such as Yale, Michigan, Cornell, and Berkeley.

    Does The Consortium offer full scholarships?

    Yes, selected fellows receive full-tuition MBA scholarships covering mandatory academic fees for two years.

    Can I apply to multiple schools through one Consortium application?

    Yes, applicants can rank and apply to up to six MBA programs using a single CGSM application.

    What are the selection criteria for CGSM fellowships?

    Fellowships are awarded based on leadership, academic merit, diversity impact, and school-specific preferences.

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