A Community of Inclusion

We believe our community should reflect the diverse world we live in. From the day you arrive at Olin, you’ll work on your cultural agility, the ability to work with anyone—at home and anywhere in the world. But to us, our diversity is more than numbers. It’s connectivity, relationships that transcend our differences and make the most of everyone. It takes a mutual respect for different backgrounds and viewpoints. And it’s a crucial element in understanding and appreciating other cultures and perspectives. Olin is a place that asks you to be your best and fosters an environment where you always feel welcome.

We have found you learn the most from those who are different from you. People with different perspectives and frames of reference. That’s why we embrace all the varied aspects of identity: race, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, nationality, age, ability, and belief systems. Individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized populations. Here, you’ll be immersed in a diversity of thought, ideas, talents, and values—broadening your own insight and understanding.

Check out WashU diversity groups, disability resources, LGBTQIA resources, and the Center for Diversity and Inclusion. And see our Class Profile for stats on first-year MBAs.

Student Organizations

Olin’s many student clubs and organizations help celebrate—and even attract—a diverse student body. Members share academic and professional experiences, and foster one another’s personal and career development. Get involved to celebrate your own diversity or learn more about others’.

• The Olin Women in Business group was named 2016 chapter of the year by the National Association of Women MBAs. The group encourages the development and advancement of women.
• The Olin Black MBA Association and Latin American Business Association host professional development, networking, and cultural activities, and offer incoming students of color tips for getting settled in the St. Louis area.
  
• The Olin Veterans Association (OVA) is a network of current MBA students, alumni, and corporate partners with military backgrounds. They give advice on course selection, résumé preparation, and job search strategies. Participate in the OVA mentorship program or apply for scholarships.
• Clubs established by students and alumni of various nationalities—such as Chinese, Indian, Japanese, and Korean—provide support networks and help with the recruitment of MBA candidates.
• Other clubs focus on building awareness of business development opportunities, such as the Africa Business Club.

Learn more about MBA student organizations.

International students

We offer a variety of resources to assist international students in their transition and to help them get acclimated. These include an expatriate orientation to help them and their families get settled into life in St. Louis, understand a new healthcare system, and benefit from a series of business-oriented communication courses. In addition, Washington University’s Office for International Students and Scholars offers a wide range of information and support services for international students.

Scholarships

We recruit and support diversity by offering a number of scholarships. More information about scholarships can be found on the Tuition and Financial Aid page.

Consortium Scholarships

Olin Business School is a founding member of the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, an organization that works to diversify the ranks of corporate America and its member schools. It does this by providing full-tuition scholarships to candidates who are also committed to this mission. This scholarship requires a separate application. Learn about the accomplishments of our Consortium fellows on the Consortium@Olin website.

Forté Foundation Scholarships

Olin is also a member of the Forté Foundation, a consortium of business schools, corporations, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to launching women into successful careers in business. All women accepted to the full-time MBA program are automatically considered for Forté scholarships.

International students who have graduated from specific universities outside the United States are eligible for full-tuition scholarships. These awards include an annual stipend of $27,000 per year. Determine your eligibility by visiting mcdonnell.wustl.edu.

Those who have served in the U.S. armed forces are eligible to apply for Olin Veteran’s Association Scholarships. These include both partial- and full-tuition awards. Olin is also a full participant in the Yellow Ribbon Post-9/11 G.I. Bill program. If you are determined to be eligible for the benefit by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Washington University and the VA will cover 100 percent of your tuition. Read more about the MBA for military veterans.