University of Virginia Darden School of Business

Darden Deadlines 2026-2027 / Class of 2029

Early Action

Application Deadline: September 9, 2026 Decisions Released: October 28, 2026

Round 1

Application Deadline: October 7, 2026 Decisions Released: December 9, 2026

Round 2

Application Deadline: January 7, 2027 Decisions Released: March 17, 2027

Round 3

Application Deadline: March 1, 2027 Decisions Released: April 2, 2027

The following are the main essay questions on the 2026-2027 / Class of 2029

Darden MBA application:

Short Answer 1

Relationships Matter Here

At Darden, learning is personal. Students bring their whole self to the Darden classroom, and who you are, your interests, your passions, your curiosities, your thoughts, your ideas, all matter here. With the case method, students’ personal and professional experiences shape not only their learning but also the learning of their classmates. Darden’s collaborative approach creates space for students to share their expertise and insights but also their perspectives and points of view. We are a community of learners and aspiring professionals but also so much more.

What would you want your classmates to know about you that is not on your resume? (200 words)

Short Answer 2

Careers With Purpose

Darden’s Career Center delivers personalized career searches, support, and resources to empower students in their goals to create value as transformational leaders. The team of dedicated, expert career coaches spans every major industry, function and geography and collectively represent over one hundred years of coaching experience. Coaches are prepared to support students wherever they are in their search, as career goals shift and evolve while pursuing an MBA. Through a wide variety of career-related programming, students gain the skills to convert personal purpose into professional success. This support continues after graduation with access to complimentary career support for life through Darden’s Alumni Career Services.

At this time how would you describe your short-term, post-MBA goal in terms of industry, function, geography, company size and/or mission and how does it align with the long-term vision you have for your career? (200 words)

Video Essay

The video essay affords you the opportunity to showcase your personality and critical thinking skills. You will have a 10-second preparation window and 90 seconds to respond to a randomly-generated question, pulled from pool of questions written by the Admissions Committee. 

Optional Short Answer

If there is further information you believe would be helpful to the Admissions Committee, please provide it. (250 words)

Visit the Darden admissions website for more application information.

Disclaimer: the information provided on this page is for reference only. Applicants are strongly advised to visit the admissions website link provided above to confirm essay prompts, deadlines, and other application information.