Admissions Process

At Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education, we believe having diverse global cohorts generates a wealth of perspectives that enriches the experience of every program participant. As such, we welcome applicants who represent a range of backgrounds, professional roles, and geographic regions.

We assess candidates based on the following criteria:

• Experience: We evaluate your record of accomplishments and range of responsibilities. Most admitted applicants have at least 10 years of professional experience. However, some select programs are designed for talented emerging leaders.
• Education: In recognition that leaders are formed from a vast array of experiences, we have no specific educational requirements.
• Language: You must have fluency in written and spoken English.

First-time Applicants: Here's What to Do

• Once you have identified your program of interest, click on the Apply button on the program page.
• Select “Create an Account.”
• Enter the requested information. If your organization is not listed, enter “Unknown Organization.” Click “Submit.”
• You will receive an email with a link to set your password.
• Enter an eight-character password that contains letters and at least 1 number. You will then be logged in to the Application Portal.
• Proceed to “Start a New Application” instructions directly below.

Current Account Holders: Here's What to Do

• Once you have identified your program of interest, click on the Apply button on the program page, which will bring you to the Account Portal
• Log in to the Account Portal.
• Select “Start A New Application” on the right side of the screen.
• Select the program and session you wish to apply for.
• Once you have completed all required fields, select “Review and Save Application” at the bottom. If you have missed any required fields, the progress meter will not show 100%. You can review your application and complete any fields you may have missed.
• To print or save a copy of your application, select the “print” icon at the top of the screen.
• If you select “Submit Your Application,” you will be asked to verify and sign your application.
• After you submit your application, you will receive an email confirmation.
• You will receive an email with any updates to your application status within three weeks.

Helpful tips:

• Only use the navigation buttons located within the portal; do not use your browser's “back” button.
• Save your work often. If you leave your session unattended for 60 minutes or longer, your session may time out and cause your unsaved work to be lost.

Application deadlines are generally three weeks in advance of the program start date for online programs and two months in advance of the program start date for on-campus programs. Please visit the respective program pages for specific deadlines.

Since programs often fill to capacity, we recommend applying early to enhance your chances of admission.

For most programs, qualified candidates are admitted on a rolling, space-available basis. Once you have submitted your application, applicants typically receive email notification of the Admission Committee's decision within three weeks. This timeframe may be extended due to the volume of applications.

 All communications you receive from Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education will come via email. Please add exed@hks.harvard.edu to your address book so that no emails end up in your spam folder.

Harvard University welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Laura Simolaris at laura_simolaris@harvard.edu in advance of your participation or visit. Please note: The university will make every effort to secure services, but they are subject to availability. 

All information submitted is confidential.