Wharton-INSEAD Program Policies

Exchange Structure and Academics

Wharton MBA students may study at INSEAD during the fall, spring, or summer, for either one or two INSEAD periods. INSEAD Periods 4 and 5 typically offer the broadest selection of elective courses.

Fall/Spring Exchange Terms

  • 1.5 INSEAD CUs = 1 Wharton CU
  • Students must complete a minimum of 3 INSEAD CU and may take up to 6 INSEAD CU per exchange period
  • All INSEAD courses are counted as elective credits
  • Exchange coursework appears on the Wharton transcript as Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (pass/fail)
  • Exchange credits count toward the 19 CU MBA requirement ONLY during the fall and spring terms, or the summer term between first and second year, and may not fulfill Wharton core, flex core, or major requirements

Summer Exchange Term

  • Wharton students participating in summer exchange at INSEAD following their second year must complete 19 CUs and all MBA degree requirements prior to departing for the exchange.
  • Student must complete 3 INSEAD CU (equivalent to 2 Wharton CU) while on exchange
  • Students who participate in the summer exchange will have their graduation date deferred to summer, but are still welcome to participate in the spring commencement.
    • International students should note:
      • a summer graduation term in Pennant does NOT require an I-20 extension
      • meeting degree requirement – not the graduation term – determines OPT eligibility
      • the I-20 end date and Pennant graduate date may differ, and this is acceptable for immigration purposes
      • ISSS issues extensions only when there is a clear academic need to remain in F-1 status
    • International students should meet with their ISSS Advisor before committing to a summer exchange to ensure they fully understand the implications on their immigration status and OPT eligibility.

Eligibility

Admission to the exchange program is competitive, with preference given to students with strong academic records. To participate, students must remain in good academic standing throughout the application and exchange process.

Additional policies include:

  • Students do not pay additional tuition for the exchange, provided they remain within the Wharton MBA program’s 21 CU limit
  • Exchange students are responsible for their own travel, housing, and personal expenses
  • Students have access to Career Management Services at the host institution during the exchange period only
  • Exchange students receive course registration priority comparable to students at a similar stage in the INSEAD MBA program