At Fuqua, we strive to create a community that reflects the world’s rich diversity of cultures, experiences, and perspectives. One of the most rewarding parts of my role as associate dean for admissions is witnessing how our students come together to build a network that is truly global — one that supports them during their time here and for years to come. This spirit of connection and collaboration is at the core of what makes Fuqua special.

The Value of International Students

Fuqua is committed to preparing students to thrive in a global business environment. By bringing together individuals from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, we create a space where students learn not just from faculty and coursework but also from each other. These interactions equip them to work effectively in diverse teams and lead with a global mindset.

A panel sitting at the front of a conference room with dozens of people in the audience
Prospective students attending a Fuqua Information Session I hosted in Lagos, Nigeria

Our Admissions team works strategically and intentionally to create a student body mirroring the interconnected business world. By understanding that everyone’s path to business school is different, we can better support their application journey by offering:

  • Admissions counselors trained to understand regional nuances and provide personalized guidance
  • An annual virtual International Student Symposium for prospective candidates showcasing Fuqua’s community, academic, career, and social resources
  • Connections to students and alumni who share real-life insights about their Fuqua experiences
  • Support for visas, financial aid, and other essential needs to help students transition smoothly to life at Fuqua

How We Prepare International Students for Success

At Fuqua, international students play a vital role in enriching our community and helping everyone develop a broader understanding of the world. We provide tailored resources to help students transition into our programs and set them up for success.

Jessica Brown, associate director of admissions, standing and speaking to others seated at a restaurant table in Southeast Asia
Jessica Brown, associate director of admissions (second from the left), visiting Seoul, South Korea

Starting Strong in the Classroom

To help international students adjust to life in the U.S., we offer Business, Communication, and Culture, a course that builds skills in communication, networking, and presentation. Students receive personalized feedback to help them feel confident before classes officially begin.

In addition, all Daytime MBA students take a new required course Leading Business in a Complex World, which addresses the global challenges that businesses face today. Taught by Professors Aaron “Ronnie” Chatterji (Strategy), Keisha Cutright (Marketing), and Gráinne Fitzsimons (Leadership), the course encourages critical thinking about geopolitical issues and collaboration with peers from diverse backgrounds. The course sets the tone for working in teams, a cornerstone of the MBA core curriculum.

Shari Hubert, associate dean for admissions at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, with alumni and prospective students in Mexico. Someone is holding a blue "Duke Fuqua" flag in the middle
Another stop in my Monterrey, Mexico visit

Exploring Global Opportunities

Our curriculum offers multiple ways to gain international exposure. Fuqua’s exchange programs allow students a flexible way to study at one of our 25 partner universities worldwide, in locations such as Thailand and Italy. These programs provide immersive experiences, allowing students to deepen their understanding of global markets while living and learning in another culture.

For those seeking a more targeted experience, we offer Global Academic Travel Experience (GATE) courses. These courses examine the history, politics, economy, and culture of a specific region, culminating in a two-week trip to that region. Recent GATE topics include sustainability in the Nordics, diversity and inclusion in Germany, and the effects of apartheid in South Africa. Students consistently describe these experiences as transformative, both personally and professionally.

Lifelong Career Support and Global Alumni Connections

At Fuqua, we measure our success not just by the achievements of our students during their time here, but by the impact they have throughout their careers.

All Fuqua residential programs carry STEM designation, enabling international graduates to work in the U.S. for up to three years through OPT. Our Career Management Center (CMC) provides expert coaching and guidance to help students navigate the global job market, and dedicates resources to support international students whose career journey is unique. Importantly, our career resources are available for life, giving alumni continued access to support at any stage of their professional journey.

Our alumni network, which includes over 29,000 individuals in 100 countries, is an invaluable resource. With 14% of alumni living outside the U.S., international Duke and Fuqua chapters offer mentorship, connections, and opportunities for lifelong engagement. Regional advisory boards composed of alumni and business leaders further strengthen these connections by fostering engagement in key markets. Events like Fuqua Around the World bring alumni, students, and admitted applicants together in cities across the globe to celebrate and build community.

Jessica Brown, associate director of admissions, and dozens of Fuqua alumni gathered for a photo, some are holding banners reading "Fuqua Around the World" and a person in the center is holding a blue Duke Fuqua flag
Alumni and Brown celebrating Fuqua Around the World in Seoul, South Korea

Shaping a Global Community for the Future

Fuqua’s mission is to prepare leaders who make a difference in the world, and we’re proud of the role our students and alumni play in creating positive change. Every student who joins our community brings something unique, and we are here to support them as they pursue their goals. It’s inspiring to see how the connections made at Fuqua evolve into lifelong friendships, collaborations, and professional networks. We look forward to continuing to build a community that truly reflects the best of a globally connected world.