Applying For An MBA - Series Introduction

So you’ve selected your MBA program and now you ask yourself, “How do I apply to an MBA school?” Great question.

Applying for an MBA program can be a daunting process - but it doesn’t have to be if you are organized. This guide should help you understand a little more about the application process.

How to apply to and MBA Program

Application: This is your personal information which usually includes your biographical data, scholastic background, and work history. There is usually room to include other pertinent information including academic and professional recognition, professional certifications, community service, clubs or organizations you belong to, or other information that may give the Admissions Council insight into your personality and professional prospects.

Resume: Your resume gives the Admissions Council a peak at your professional history including growth, tasks and responsibilities, and career path. They want to see that you have progressed and have a clear career path. Don’t worry, there is no “best job” for MBA applicants. MBA programs like candidates from all backgrounds.

Official Transcripts: The Admissions Council at your prospective MBA program will want to see the work you’ve done your previous schools, and more importantly, how well you did it. Keep in mind that the Admissions Council will want official transcripts from all universities attended, not just the degree granting universities.

GMAT Scores: The GMAT is the standardized test for B-school applicants. This is arguably the most important element of your application because if your scores don’t at least fall into the normal median for accepted applicants, you probably will not be accepted to the program you apply to.

Essays: The essays are your money maker! This is your chance to tell the Admissions Council who you are, what makes you tick, why you would be a benefit to their program (not why their program would be a benefit to you!), and tell them your strengths and weaknesses.

Letters of Recommendation: It’s one thing for you to tell the Admissions Council who you are and what you do, but it’s another thing for someone else to tell them. Especially when that someone else was in a supervisory position over you.

Interviews: This is another chance to shine in front of the Admissions Council. Treat this like a job interview - be confident - not arrogant, dress well, and give well thoughtful answers.

Application Fees: Don’t forget to pay your application fees, they are important!

Remember, getting into an MBA program is a very competitive and detailed process for everyone involved. You want to ensure you get accepted into the best program you can, and the schools want to ensure they have the best and brightest students attending their MBA program because it is a direct reflection of their reputation and standing in the business community. Do your best to prove to the Admissions Council that not only are you good enough to attend their program, but that you will be a good reflection upon their school and traditions. Good luck on your application!

This is the series introduction on applying for an MBA program. Please read the rest of the articles for more information!

• Applying For An MBA - Series Introduction
• Part 1: Application
• Part 2: Resume
• Part 3: Transcripts
• Part 4: GMAT Scores
• Part 5: Essays
• Part 6: Letters of Recommendation
• Part 7: Interview
• Part 8: Other Factors

For more information about selecting an MBA program, please check out my 8 part series - Selecting an MBA Program:

• Introduction
• Part 1: Do You Need an MBA?
• Part 2: Program Types, In-Residence
• Part 3: Program Types, Distance and Online Learning
• Part 4: Importance of Business School Rankings
• Part 5: How Much Will it Cost?
• Part 6: MBA: Return on Investment
• Part 7: Other Deciding Factors for Choosing Your Program
• Part 8: Applying for an MBA - (Series)

Tagged as: application, B-School, GMAT, MBA