School guides · 2026-27

Duke Fuqua

The essay prompts, word limits and deadlines for 2026-27, and what Duke Fuqua says it looks for. Always check the official site before you submit.

Essays

Post-MBA career goals

100 words

What are your post-MBA career goals? Share with us your first-choice career plan and your alternate plan.

25 Random Things

750 words

The "Team Fuqua" spirit and community is one of the things that sets the MBA experience apart, and it is a concept that extends beyond the student body to include faculty, staff, and administration. Please share with us "25 Random Things" about you. The Admissions Committee wants to get to know YOU - beyond the professional and academic achievements listed in your resume and transcript. Share with us important life experiences, your hobbies, achievements, fun facts, or anything that helps us understand what makes you who you are. Your list will be limited to 2 pages (750 words maximum). Please present your response in list form, numbered 1 to 25.

The Fuqua Community and You

500 words

Fuqua prides itself on cultivating a culture of engagement. Our students enjoy a wide range of student-led organizations that provide opportunities for leadership development and personal fulfillment, as well as an outlet for contributing to society. Our student-led government, clubs, centers, and events are an integral part of the student culture and to the development of leaders. Based on your understanding of the Fuqua culture, what are 3 ways you expect to contribute at Fuqua?

Optional essay

500 words · optional

If you feel there are circumstances of which the admissions committee should be aware, please explain them here (for example, unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, or areas of weakness in academic performance). Note that you should NOT upload additional essays nor additional recommendations in this area.

Reapplicant essay

500 words · optional

It is not uncommon for it to take more than one try to achieve a goal. Please share with us the self-reflection process that you underwent after last year's application and how you have grown as a result. How did it shape your commitment to Fuqua and inspire your decision to reapply?

Deadlines

EASeptember 2, 2026
R1September 30, 2026
R2January 5, 2027
R3March 25, 2027

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Sources

Last checked November 7, 2026. Storylode is not affiliated with Fuqua School of Business, Duke University.