Blog

Beyond the MBA Classroom: Getting Formal at Wharton

When you select an MBA program, you are not just choosing your learning environment, but are also committing to becoming part of a community. Each Thursday, we offer a window into life “beyond the MBA classroom” at a top business school.

Although donning formal wear is certainly not a prerequisite for attending Wharton, the Winter Formal, which takes place before the end of the fall semester, gives first- and second-year students the opportunity to break out a tuxedo or a ball gown. In the past, this event has regularly been held at the beautiful 30th Street Train Station. A last hurrah of sorts, the Spring Formal is a black-tie-optional party that can induce nostalgia for some second-year students, but at its core, is still a party. Both first- and second-year students can attend this event, at which the deans present student awards.

For in-depth descriptions of social and community activities at Wharton and 14 other top MBA programs, check out the mbaMission Insider’s Guides.



onTrack by mbaMission

A first-of-its-kind, on-demand MBA application experience that delivers a personalized curriculum for you and leverages interactive tools to guide you through the entire MBA application process.

Get Started!


Upcoming Events


Upcoming Deadlines

  • HEC Paris (Round 3)
  • Ivey Business School (Round 2)
  • Esade (Round 2)
  • Villanova (Round 1)
  • Ohio Fisher (Round 2)
  • Penn State Smeal (Round 2)
  • HEC Paris (Round 4)

Click here to see the complete deadlines


2024–2025 MBA Essay Tips

Click here for the 2023–2024 MBA Essay Tips


MBA Program Updates

Explore onTrack — mbaMission’s newest offering allowing you to learn at your own pace through video. Learn more