Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to the Thunderbird School of Global Management FAQ page. Here, you will find detailed answers to frequently asked questions regarding our programs, the admissions process, student life, and other pertinent topics. This resource is designed to assist prospective students and current students in finding the information they need efficiently. Should you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.

General

Graduate credit transfers are handled by each program, so it would be best to contact your program of interest directly about the possibility of transferring your credits. Students are able to transfer up to 12 credits into a graduate program at the discretion of the program. To see the requirements and application deadlines for specific programs, please visit here.

Thunderbird School of Global Management offers a range of graduate degree and executive education programs that focus on global leadership, business and management.
Learn more about our graduate degree programs here. Learn more about your executive education programs here.

Thunderbird offers the following scholarship opportunities for veterans all programs: The Thunderbird Alumni Scholarship, Thunderbird alumni-funded scholarship opportunities, military service scholarships, and returned Peace Corps scholarship. Learn more here.

T-bird Connect is your passport to a thriving global community of Thunderbird alumni. It's a platform designed to facilitate connections, provide access to valuable resources, and foster engagement among members. Through the T-bird Connect mobile application, alumni can easily find and connect with fellow T-birds, explore various alumni chapters and affinity groups, and participate in signature programs, such as the Thunderbird Mentorship program, all from the convenience of their mobile devices. For more details on signing up, check out our step-by-step guide. Download the app for iOS or the app for Android to find a fellow T-bird, see the roster of alumni chapters and affinity groups, and participate in signature programs, including the Thunderbird Mentorship program.

Admissions

Each degree program may have unique requirements. Explore the specific program of interest below to view the requirements and application deadlines. For detailed information on the requirements and application deadlines of specific programs, please visit this link.

Applicants interested in enrolling in our programs should be passionate about leadership management, intrigued by innovation and entrepreneurship, and driven to solve complex
challenges, committed to sustainable practices, curious about cultures and languages, motivated by travel and exploring the world.

There are different requirements for each degree program. To see the requirements and application deadlines for specific programs, please visit here.

The level of work experience required depends on the program you wish to apply for. Visit our degrees page for more information.

There are different requirements for each degree program. To see the requirements and application deadlines for specific programs, please visit the program of interest below. To see the requirements and application deadlines for specific programs, please visit here.

You will receive your admissions decision from Thunderbird admissions via email. Additionally, a letter from ASU admissions will be accessible on myASU.

Application

Start your application on the page of the program you're interested in. The application process takes about 30 minutes. Before you begin, have your high school and previous college information available. To see requirements and application deadlines for specific programs, please visit here.

Thunderbird program application fee is $70 for U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, those in application for permanent residency, DACA, or international online students studying outside the U.S., and $115 for international students on any non-immigrant visa type studying in the U.S. (e.g. F-1, H1-B, H-4, etc.).

The application deadlines for Thunderbird's programs vary depending on the specific program and start date. To see the requirements and application deadlines for specific programs, please visit here.

Transcripts for graduate admissions must be sent directly to the Graduate Admissions Services department at the main Arizona State University campus. To expedite the processing of your application, please write your application reference number on all documents and envelopes submitted to ASU. Materials submitted without your application reference number will delay the processing of your application. For more information on transcripts, you can visit: https://students.asu.edu/transcripts

Yes, one essay responding to an application question is required as part of the application for our non-executive graduate programs. To see requirements and application deadlines for specific programs, please visit here.

Yes, interview(s) may be required as part of the application process.

Financial Aid

Our highest priority is to help fund scholarships and fellowships for Thunderbird students. Thanks to the support from our donors, Thunderbird also offers privately funded scholarships based on financial need, merit, regional background, or area of academic interest. Alumni-funded scholarship opportunities are available on a yearly basis to incoming and returning students with the application process launching in springtime.

Contact the Thunderbird recruitment and admissions team for more information at [email protected].

There are many different options available to help you finance your graduate education at Thunderbird. More than 96% of Thunderbird students receive financial assistance through loans, scholarships, or other awards. Arizona State University’s Financial Aid team works with you hand-in-hand to find the financing solutions for your unique situation. Explore scholarships and financial aid opportunities further by clicking here.

The cost of attending Thunderbird School of Global Management varies depending on the program, degree level, and individual circumstances. Costs typically include tuition, fees, and other associated expenses. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on tuition and related costs, please check the program of your interest or contact our admissions office. Various financing options are available to support your education at Thunderbird, with over 96% of students receiving financial assistance through loans, scholarships or other awards. Explore scholarships and funding opportunities further by clicking here.

There are many different options available to help you finance your graduate education at Thunderbird. More than 96% of Thunderbird students receive financial assistance through loans, scholarships, or other awards. Arizona State University’s Financial Aid team works with you hand-in-hand to find the financing solutions for your unique situation. To apply for financial aid, click here.

International Applicants

Yes, international students are eligible to apply to Thunderbird School of Global Management graduate degrees. Thunderbird degrees are STEM certified; therefore, they meet special F-1 international student status requirements.

International students or students who did not graduate from an English-speaking university in a native English-speaking country will be required to provide competitive TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo scores.

Financial aid options for international students at Thunderbird School of Global Management may include scholarships, grants, and loans. However, specific offerings can vary, and it's essential to check with the school's financial aid office for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Some potential avenues for financial assistance include:

Scholarships: Thunderbird may offer merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships can cover a portion of tuition costs and are typically awarded based on academic achievements, leadership qualities, and other criteria.

External scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities from government agencies, foundations, and private organizations that support global education. These may be specific to the student's home country or region.

Graduate assistantships: Some graduate programs offer assistantship opportunities, where students can work on campus in roles related to their field of study. This can provide a stipend and potentially reduce tuition costs.

Loans: International students may be eligible for private educational loans. However, obtaining a loan may require a U.S. co-signer or proof of creditworthiness.

Work-study programs: In certain cases, international students on F-1 visas may be eligible for on-campus work-study opportunities. These positions allow students to work part-time while pursuing their studies.

For more information about how to fund your education link.

The processing time for an I-20 form, which is necessary for obtaining an F-1 student visa to study in the United States, can vary depending on the policies and procedures of the specific educational institution you are applying to. Typically, the process involves several steps:

1. Admission offer: You must first receive an admission offer from the educational institution. Once you are accepted into a program, the institution will initiate the I-20 process.

2. Submit required documents: You will need to submit certain documents, such as financial statements, proof of English proficiency, and a copy of your passport, to the institution's international student office.

3. Financial verification: The institution will review your financial documents to ensure that you have the necessary funds to cover your tuition and living expenses while studying in the United States.

4. I-20 issuance: Upon successful completion of the necessary steps, the international student office will issue the Form I-20.

The time it takes to complete these steps can vary. You can find information about I-20 visa here.

Thunderbird School of Global Management has specific TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) requirements. The minimum scores may vary for different programs within the same institution.

For more information, click here.

Thunderbird’s Master of Global Management can be described as a degree at the intersection of global business, public policy and international affairs. Students pursuing an advanced degree in global management seek to further their business, leadership, and management studies on a global level or broaden the scope of their knowledge and skills internationally. The program empowers graduates who hold bachelor’s degrees in other fields to change careers or advance in their current paths by opening new doors of opportunity worldwide. For more information on the MGM degree, click here.