How to Get Into Business School

If you’re wondering how to get into the business school of your choice, look no further! This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the admissions process with confidence and maximize your chances of securing a spot at your dream business school.

LinkedIn workplace learning report: Management is the most in-demand human skill for 2023.

Competition for business school admissions can be fierce, as top-tier institutions attract many applicants each year. However, with early preparation and a strategic approach, you can set yourself apart from the competition and increase your chances of success.

Let’s dive in and explore the key steps to success!

Starting your MBA preparations early provides several advantages. It allows you to thoroughly research and target MBA programs that align with your goals, ensuring a good fit. Early preparation also gives you ample time to study for and take standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE. 

By starting early, you can meet application deadlines without rushing and allocate sufficient time for each step in the admission process:

• Preparing your undergraduate transcripts
• Preparing for GRE/GMAT
• Building work experience portfolio
• Essay writing
• Securing recommendations

Additionally, early preparation allows for self-reflection and goal-setting, helping you build a strong profile and craft a compelling narrative for your application.

You will find that today’s MBA curriculum has surpassed the age-old idea of “studying business” to focus on developing entrepreneurial skills. Today, most MBA admission committees use a “holistic” admission process and look for aspiring students from varied backgrounds. GRE/GMAT scores no longer serve as the primary go-to benchmark for MBA admissions. 

Even if you scored lower in competitive exams, you can still pull yourself back into the running for admission by weighing your other qualifications against MBA program requirements.

A “holistic” admissions process evaluates you for admission based on a comprehensive assessment of your qualifications and potential rather than solely relying on a few specific criteria or metrics.

The committee considers multiple factors beyond academic achievements or test scores in a holistic admissions process. They consider various aspects of understanding your unique qualities, experiences, and potential contributions to the MBA program and the business community.

Academic Qualifications

Most MBA programs require an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. While an undergraduate degree in business or a related field is often preferred, it is optional. Some programs may require applicants with non-business backgrounds to complete prerequisite courses.

Related: Most proven undergraduate degrees for MBA-seekers

Network with Schools

Networking with schools can greatly benefit you during the application process. You can gain insider knowledge about the program’s culture, curriculum, and admission requirements by connecting with current students, alums, faculty, and admissions staff. 

• Engage in conversations and attend events to demonstrate your genuine interest and align your application with the school’s values and strengths. 
• Build relationships with alums to gain insights, mentorship, and secure strong recommendation letters. 

Participate in Activities and Leadership

Admissions committees value candidates who can show a track record of involvement in extracurricular activities, as it demonstrates that you are proactive, able to contribute to a community, and that you have potential to make a meaningful impact in the business world.

Keep track of your activities and record your experiences on paper or in a file on your computer. You may have led a small team of volunteers driving positive change in your community, started a small entrepreneurial venture with family and friends, or done something as simple as helping your school friend get better grades.

When you start collating resources for your MBA application, the paper trail you collected will give you plenty of examples of your managerial and leadership skills.

Financial Planning and Scholarships

Planning for finances and scholarships during the MBA admission process is crucial to ensure you can afford the program and minimize the financial burden. Here are some steps to help you in this process:

• STEP 1] Research program costs: Consider factors such as tuition fees, living expenses, periodicals, and travel costs, if applicable. 
• STEP 2] Create a budget: Understand your income, expenses, and potential savings. Identify areas where you can reduce costs or increase savings to allocate more funds towards your MBA.
• STEP 3] Explore financial aid and scholarship opportunities: Financial aid offices in aspiring MBA program colleges can guide you on available financial aid options, loan programs, scholarships, and any additional support they may offer.
  • Complete the FAFSA: Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid.
  • Research external scholarships specific to MBA students, such as:
    • Forte MBA fellowships
    • Consortium for graduate study in management
    • The Toigo foundation
• STEP 4] Seek employer sponsorship: If you are currently employed, check if your employer offers sponsorship or financial support for employees pursuing an MBA. Some companies have tuition reimbursement programs or sponsorship opportunities. 
• STEP 5] Plan for personal savings: Start saving early to build a financial cushion before starting your MBA program. Cut unnecessary expenses, create a savings plan, and set realistic savings goals. 
• STEP 6] Consider part-time or online programs: If cost is a significant concern, consider part-time or online MBA programs, which offer more flexibility and lower tuition fees than full-time programs. Evaluate the trade-offs and determine if this is a feasible option for you.

Admissions committees take a holistic approach to evaluating candidates and look for a combination of academic ability, professional potential, leadership skills, and personal characteristics that align with the values and goals of the program.

Undergraduate transcripts

MBA programs will require you to submit your undergraduate transcripts as part of the admission process. The admissions committee will review these transcripts to assess your academic performance, the rigor of your coursework, and the quality of your undergraduate education. 

Transcripts provide a longitudinal view of your academic journey. Admissions committees often look for consistency in performance and signs of improvement over time. If you faced challenges earlier in your undergraduate studies but have since demonstrated improvement or achieved higher grades, your transcripts can showcase this positive trajectory.

Remember that while a solid academic record is essential, the admissions committee will also consider other aspects of your profile, such as your work experience and extracurricular activities.

Related: Best Undergraduate Degrees for MBA-Seekers

GPA Requirements

Most MBA programs have specific GPA requirements that you must meet. Each business school sets its standards, which can vary based on factors like the school’s ranking, competitiveness, and applicant pool. 

Generally, competitive MBA programs look for candidates with a strong undergraduate GPA, often ranging from 3.0 to 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. However, it’s important to remember that GPA is just one aspect of your application, and the admissions committee will also assess your work experience, specific skills, and standardized test scores when evaluating your candidacy.

FACT: There are some reputable MBA programs that accept 2.5 or even 2.0 GPAs, and many also offer conditional admission if your GPA isn’t up to mark. Some great business leaders were poor students, and MBA programs know this!

GRE/GMATs

You must submit scores from the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) for your MBA application. These standardized tests assess your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. 

The specific score requirements can vary among schools, so it’s crucial to research the requirements of each program you’re interested in. Some schools may have a minimum score threshold, while others may provide average or competitive ranges for admitted students. 

Make sure to dedicate sufficient time and effort to prepare for these exams, as they can significantly impact the strength of your application. If your undergraduate degree lacked quantitative coursework or you didn’t perform well in these subjects, you have a few years to address that.

Both the GMAT and GRE tests are valid for five years. However, if you don’t achieve a satisfactory score, there’s no need to worry. You can retake the tests up to five times yearly if necessary, and schools typically consider only your highest score.

NOTE: While most MBA programs still require GMAT/GRE scores, many went to test-optional admissions during the pandemic. You can find programs that don’t require scores, and some don’t require them altogether if your GPA is very high.

Work Experience

MBA programs generally seek candidates with professional work experience, although the required years of experience may vary. The average work experience most full-time MBA programs seek is around three to five years. Work experience helps demonstrate your ability to apply theoretical concepts in a practical setting and contribute to classroom discussions and group work.

Whether you join a social impact startup, a local investment boutique, or a small-scale manufacturing business, you can still build robust work experiences. Such firms have dense staff for daily operations and strategy—a perfect environment for you to hone your skills by leading your peers and driving change on the ground.

It doesn’t matter where you work; the experiences you earn bring about a distinction in your future MBA applications. Choose to volunteer for uncommon projects, work with interns, and try to find new innovative solutions to pressing business challenges.

MBA Resume

MBA programs typically require you to submit letters of recommendation. These letters should come from individuals who speak to your academic abilities, work experience, leadership potential, and personal qualities. Choosing recommenders who can provide specific examples and insights into your skills and achievements is vital.

MBA applications also include essays or personal statements. These essays allow you to articulate your career goals, motivations for pursuing an MBA, and how the program aligns with your aspirations. They allow you to showcase your writing skills, critical thinking, and self-awareness.

MBA Interviews

Some MBA programs may require applicants to participate in an interview as part of the application process. The interview can be in-person, via video conference, or other methods. During your consultation, the admissions committee assesses your communication skills, fit with the program, and ability to articulate your goals and experiences.

Aspect	Online MBA Admission	In-person MBA Admission
Application process	Applications are submitted online with required documents	Applications are submitted online or in hard copy with required documents
Interview process	Virtual interviews conducted via video conferencing	In-person interviews conducted on-campus or off-campus
Admission criteria	Emphasis on work experience, skills, and career goals	Emphasis on work experience, skills, and academic background
Geographic restrictions	No geographic restrictions for applicants	May have a preference for local or regional applicants
Admission timeline	Admissions decisions may have rolling or continuous intake throughout the year	Admissions decisions often follow specific application deadlines and notification cycles
Class Size and Dynamic	Variable class sizes with diverse student backgrounds	Cohort-based learning with close-knit class dynamics

Deferred or early admission MBA programs allow you to secure a pre-admission seat to select MBA programs—usually two to five years in advance.

These programs are primarily aimed at final-year undergraduate students or early-career professionals who want to secure their spot in an MBA program while gaining valuable work experience before starting their graduate studies. 

Benefits of a deferred MBA program:

• Work and gain valuable professional experience that aids your MBA curriculum.
• Before entering your MBA classroom, you can build a professional network, establish connections, and engage in industry events.
• You have peace of mind, knowing that you have a guaranteed place in the MBA program once you are ready to enroll.

GMAC corporate report states that most corporate recruiters will hunt for new business school talent in the next five years. Deferred MBA programs may be the right choice for you amidst such relentless competition.

While getting into a top business school can provide certain advantages, it does not necessarily determine your success or limit your potential for a fulfilling career. Here are some key points to consider if you don’t get into a top business school:

Alternative options

Many reputable business schools may not be considered “top-tier” but offer excellent education and networking opportunities. Explore alternatives to an MBA and consider their specific strengths and focus areas.

While acclaimed institutions often dominate the spotlight, you’ll find that smaller MBA programs are a gem for you as you seek a distinctive edge in your career. These programs are typically more receptive to integrating emerging trends and swiftly adjusting their curriculum to meet industry demands.

They can tailor coursework more agilely to address niche areas or specialized industries, giving you a competitive advantage in those specific fields. Additionally, they may offer internships, consulting projects, or partnerships with local businesses, providing you with hands-on experience and real-world application of business concepts.

Compared to larger, more renowned MBA programs, these smaller programs often have lower tuition fees and living expenses. This affordability can significantly reduce your financial burden.

Individual growth

A business school is just one avenue for learning and personal development. You can acquire knowledge and skills through various other means, such as online courses, workshops, industry certifications, or practical work experience. Continuous learning and self-improvement are vital in the business world.

Networking opportunities

Although top business schools often have extensive alum networks, you can build a solid professional network in any business school by engaging in industry events, conferences, and online communities. Networking is about establishing meaningful connections and showcasing your skills and expertise by helping out your colleagues.

Personal achievements

Business school admissions committees consider various factors, including academic achievements, work experience, leadership skills, and personal qualities. Focus on highlighting your strengths and achievements in other areas of your life.

Entrepreneurship and experience

Starting your own business or gaining practical experience in the industry can be an alternative path to success. Many successful entrepreneurs have achieved great things without attending a top business school. Real-world experience, resilience, and an entrepreneurial mindset are often more valuable than a school’s brand name.

Continuous learning

The business landscape constantly evolves, and success depends on adaptability and a willingness to learn. Develop a habit of continuous learning, stay updated on industry trends, and seek out opportunities for professional development.

To wrap it up, securing admission to a business school requires careful planning, academic prowess, and a standout application. Research your target schools, excel academically, engage in leadership roles, and create a compelling application. Remember to prepare for standardized tests. By following these steps, you can boost your chances of getting into the business school of your choice.