‘Policy shifts create uncertainty, but international students are integral’: Darden professor on immigration uncertainty and the future of MBAs

How are policy changes in the US affecting international students?

We know that there have been policy changes, and that at the University of Virginia (UVA) and Darden, we are not in control of those. What we do know is that we see some policies put forth, and then there have been reversals made on that. We don’t want to speculate on how it will unfold, but what we are committed to is making sure students who are interested in us have the support they need to navigate the process.

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Our admissions team is closely monitoring every step of the journey — from assisting with visa processes to exploring alternative pathways and providing additional documentation when needed. Most importantly, we want students to know they are not alone, and that we deeply value their presence here.

Has the admissions process changed due to these uncertainties?

The admissions process at Darden has remained consistent. It focuses on each applicant’s work experience, leadership potential, articulated goals, and reasons for wanting to study at Darden. We maintain a high-touch approach, staying in close contact with applicants to address friction points early. Interviews for Indian applicants, or other international students are mostly conducted virtually, though some, which are at later stages might still take place on campus.

What can the institution do to reassure admitted students before they arrive?

We begin building community well before students arrive on campus. Throughout the summer, admitted students connect with peers worldwide via webinars and online activities. Our admissions team and staff remain in constant touch. In fact, a representative often travels to India in spring to conduct case discussions with admitted students, giving them an early sense of classroom learning. This makes the transition much more smooth when they arrive in the US.

How does the curriculum integrate new technologies like AI?

It’s a two-pronged strategy. First, there are dedicated AI-related courses within specific disciplines.

Second, generative AI is being infused across the curriculum. For example, in a professional advancement course here, students now use AI tools to prepare for coaching sessions so they can engage more deeply. Colleagues are teaching courses on flourishing in the age of AI, exploring both technical and psychological dimensions.

Industry adoption reinforces this direction. Students report that AI is central to their internships across sectors be it in consulting or in finance, making AI fluency a critical accelerator for career success.

What does Darden look for in MBA applicants?

We value leadership potential, reflective insight, and the ability to articulate why Darden’s case-method learning is the right fit. While quantitative skills are important, a business background is not required here. Many students come from non-business fields but view the MBA as a career accelerator. The first year’s core curriculum ensures that everyone starts on the same foundation.

What support do international students have in placements?

Career support starts even before students set foot on campus. Over the summer, they work with coaches on resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and sector preferences. Once at Darden, they receive deep-dives on industries, access to a database of recruiters, and ongoing coaching sessions.

Darden’s outcomes remain strong despite a tougher job market. According to data shared in Darden’s 2024-25 Employment Report, 97 percent of students seeking employment received offers within three months of graduation, with consulting and finance continuing as top recruiting sectors.

How does Darden compare with peer schools in placement performance?

Despite global hiring challenges, Darden has reported among the highest placement levels compared to peer business schools in recent years. The class of 2024 achieved a median base salary of $175,000, with top consulting firms, investment banks, and technology companies among recruiters.

Notably, in the Financial Times Global MBA Rankings 2025, Darden secured rank 20 in the world, sharing the rank with Dartmouth College: Tuck and ranking above IMD — International Institute for Management Development, Switzerland.

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Are there any specific ways that engagement with India is being deepened?

India is central to our global outreach. We visit yearly to meet alumni, prospective students, and executives. Recently, we led workshops in Mumbai and Delhi on topics ranging from supply chain management to team dynamics. We also expect to establish a University of Virginia office in India in the near future. This will be similar to our expansion in South Africa.

How important are sustainability and social impact in the curriculum?

Sustainability has become a top priority for both students and corporate partners. Darden offers a concentration in ESG and sustainability, supported by a Sustainability Council that brings together students, faculty, and staff.

Student-led clubs, which are extra-curricular in nature, also host conferences and speaker sessions, creating a strong ecosystem around social impact and responsible leadership.

What is the profile of Indian students at Darden?

Indians make up approximately 12 percent of the MBA cohort, making them the largest South Asian representation in the programme. Overall, each batch includes 350–360 students, and diversity is a key focus in admissions.

Are there any scholarships targeted towards Indian students?

While there are no region-specific scholarships, Darden has recently raised over $600 million. This will enable us to create 100 new scholarships. Both merit-based and need-based awards are available, and all international applicants are automatically considered.

How do you see MBA education evolving over the next decade?

We anticipate more courses on disruptive technologies, particularly AI, with an emphasis on ethics and human factors. Executives in India are already asking how to upskill employees to integrate AI effectively. Courses addressing productivity, ethical use of technology, and global leadership will likely define the next phase of MBA education.