Beyond Philadelphia
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Program Options | Program Basics | Timelines | How to Choose | Learn More & Apply
What are my options?
Semester in San Francisco
Spend a semester immersed in the heart of the innovation ecosystem. Build industry connections, gain hands-on experience, and explore careers at the intersection of business and technology.
International Exchange
Study at a leading global business school for a half or full semester. Experience a new academic environment, broaden your global perspective, and build an international network.
Global Immersion Programs
Connect classroom learning with immersive travel, allowing you to engage with executives, government officials, and local organizations while exploring the cultural, economic, and political forces that shape key regions of the world.
Global Modular Courses
Engage with local leaders, companies, and partner institutions on an experiential course, led by our world-class Wharton faculty in emerging and developed economies. Explore global business topics on a local level and link innovative ideas to new business models.
Wharton Leadership Ventures
Challenge yourself through experiential programs designed to strengthen your leadership skills. Learn by doing as you navigate unfamiliar environments, tackle complex problems, and grow alongside your peers.
Program Basics
| Program | Typical Program Duration | Academic Credit | Estimated Student Cost | Eligible Class Years |
| Semester in San Francisco (SSF) | Fall Semester | 3–5 CUs | $5,000 program fee + living expenses | 2Y |
| Global Modular Courses (GMC) | 6–7 days | 0.5 CU | ~$2,000–$3,500 program fee; travel (airfare) to/from the course start/end location(s) and all other associated expenses (visas, taxis, and other incidentals) are not included in the program fee | 1Y, 2Y |
| Global Immersion Programs (GIP) | 8–12 days | 0.5 CU | ~$2,500–$3,800 program fee; travel (airfare) to/from the course start/end location(s) and all other associated expenses (visas, taxis, and other incidentals) are not included in the program fee | 1Y, 2Y |
| International Exchange | Quarter or Semester | 2–4 CUs | Living expenses | Fall/Spring: 2Y only |
| Summer Exchange: 1Y & 2Y | ||||
| Wharton Leadership Ventures (WLV) | One-day intensives or week-long expeditions | N/A | ~$4,000–$4,600 program fee; flights to and from the Venture Location and personal gear from the required gear list are NOT included in the program fee | 1Y, 2Y |
Application Timelines
| Program | Typical Application Period |
| Global Immersion Programs (GIPs) Global Modular Courses (GMCs) Wharton Leadership Ventures (WLV) |
Winter Term: September |
| Spring Break: October/November | |
| Late Spring/Summer: January/February | |
| Semester in San Francisco (SSF) | Round 1: November–January |
| Round 2: March/April | |
| International Exchange | Fall/Spring Exchange: February/March |
| Round 2 (Spring only, if available): July/August | |
| Summer Exchange: January/February |
Planning ahead is key.
Many global and co-curricular opportunities overlap with recruiting and other MBA milestones. We encourage students to review application timelines early and consult with their Wharton Academic, Career and Student Life Advisors before committing to a program.
What should I be considering when choosing the right program for me?
Take time to consider how a program aligns with your academic, professional, and personal goals.
It is recommended to discuss your plans with your advisors and the program manager of the opportunity you are most interested in.
Academic Planning
- How does this program fit into your academic and degree planning?
- If the program awards academic credit, how will those credits apply toward your MBA degree?
- How soon into your MBA do you need to start planning for this program?
- Are you prepared to start planning early, particularly for longer-term programs like SSF and exchange?
Recruiting & Career Goals
- Does the timing of the program impact your internship or recruiting timeline?
- Consider timing around: interviews, networking events, career treks, & employer presentations
- For longer-term programs like SSF and exchange, be sure to discuss your plans with MBA Career Management if you are actively recruiting
Financial Considerations
- What are the total costs, including program fees, airfare, housing, meals, visas, and personal expenses?
- Is financial assistance available?
Personal & Professional Goals
- Which opportunity best aligns with your long-term goals and what you hope to gain from the experience?
- Are you looking to build global business knowledge, develop leadership skills, explore a region or industry, expand your professional network, etc ?
Travel & Logistics
- Does the country you are interested in have any visa requirements you need to consider?
- What vaccinations are required/recommended for your destination?
- Are you comfortable with the travel schedule and level of physical activity required?
Program Eligibility
- Does the program have limited enrollment or a competitive selection process?
- Is it open to all students or only certain populations?
- Are there any prerequisites or application requirements?
