"The key point, I think, is that experience is critical," he says. "Some undergraduates have had very good work experience. They may not have years, but they have the right kind, which is the important criteria."

When asked about the effects lowering the average age would have on classroom dynamics, Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurial and Service Management Roger H. Hallowell '84 and Professor of Negotiation, Organizations and Markets Carliss Y. Baldwin declined to comment.

Moss says students with fewer than four years experience usually have fewer assets, and HBS financial aid will have to carry more of the weight. To complement the need-blind admissions policy, Moss says that the HBS financial aid office makes an effort to accommodate these students. HBS tuition is about $28,000 per year.

"There are a lot of high-potential leaders out there [at universities]," she says. "We want people to apply when they're ready and they think they can demonstrate the leadership qualities we look for. We want people to know they don't have to worry about not having the experience or the assets."

--Staff writer Thomas J. Castillo can be reached at tcastill@fas.harvard.edu.