Evaluation Criteria

There is no formula for gaining admission to Tuck. It is impossible to predict a candidate's chances of admission solely by looking at his or her academic record and test scores. Each application decision hinges on the interplay of six principal factors:

Demonstrated Academic Excellence: Tuck seeks applicants who possess outstanding academic abilities, intellectual curiosity, and who will be actively engaged in the educational process. Given the analytical rigor of the Tuck curriculum, we pay special attention to each applicant's ability to master quantitative concepts. However, there is no particular course of study required to apply.

Demonstrated Leadership: Tuck looks for applicants who have been leaders in a variety of settings: extracurricular activities at college or university, the workplace, or in the community. We assess leadership potential by looking at experiences, accomplishments, and letters of recommendation.

Demonstrated Accomplishments: Tuck seeks candidates who possess the passion to make a significant impact in the classroom, in the business world, and in society. Candidates we accept do not simply go through the motions of attending school, working, or joining organizations—they have put their all into helping make those institutions better in some tangible way.

Interpersonal Skills: At Tuck, we believe that strong interpersonal skills are essential for success as both a leader and as a team member. Through the interview process, we try to get a sense of each candidate's personality and communication skills. We also look for quality and clarity of thought in written answers and essays.

Diversity of Background and Experience: Tuck seeks a variety of candidates who will bring a range of backgrounds and perspectives to the classroom and the Tuck community. The admissions committee works diligently to select the most qualified students who will thrive in, contribute to, and benefit from the active co-curricular life at Tuck.

Global Mindset: We believe that candidates
who possess a global point of view not only add depth
to the educational experience but are also ready for the
most challenging and diverse career opportunities. We
consider global mindset to be multifaceted, and we evaluate
many aspects of it—from fluency in a second language
to work, study, and extensive travel outside of one’s home country.