Is an MBA right for me?

If you’re thinking of applying to MBA programs, it is important to keep in mind the biggest difference between MBA applications and other graduate school applications: professional experience. For masters programs in the arts and sciences, a recent college graduate with a strong transcript and some internship experience stands a good chance of being accepted. Business schools, however, have different expectations — namely, at least two years of postgraduate, full-time work experience.

Professional experience. The more relevant work experience you have, the better your chances of being accepted into a top MBA program — within reason. Admissions committees are looking for applicants who can draw upon their work experience while in the classroom, and two years of experience is usually the bare minimum. Work experience can also compensate for other weaknesses throughout your application. For example, an applicant with a slightly lower GMAT score who has four or five compelling years of work experience may be more likely to be accepted than an applicant with only a year of experience and a higher GMAT. Whether you want to stay in the same professional field or switch to a different industry, drawing on your professional experience is key to building a compelling and strong application.

Academic performance and testing. In addition to work experience, the other elements of an MBA application, such as GMAT scores and transcripts, are critically important as well. While MBA applications differ from grad admissions as far as professional experience goes, the expectations for test scores and GPA are quite similar. Admissions committees want to see that you’ve done well as an undergrad and will weigh your GPA, your institution, your major and the rigor of your curriculum when evaluating your transcript. GMAT scores are important so invest in preparation, and plan sufficient time to study for, and possibly retake, the GMAT. Curious if your scores are high enough? Do some research into the average scores of last year’s admitted class at your programs of interest.

Essays. A compelling admissions essay that discusses your unique qualifications and goals for business school can help you stand out from other applicants. This is the one element of the application in which you have the most control and your ability to make a connection with the admissions officer is crucial. As with all good writing, you should aim to capture and keep attention from the first sentence. What makes you unique? How would you contribute to the school and diversify the admitted class? What experiences from your professional and academic past have influenced and motivated you? Clearly communicate defined professional goals; without them, you may not convey a good reason why you should be offered a space in the incoming class. Finally, edit, re-draft and have others read your work.

If you have at least two years of work experience, a strong GMAT score, solid transcripts and compelling essays, you are well on your way to being accepted into a top MBA program. Don’t forget that weaknesses can be counterbalanced in other parts of the application — so all hope is not lost if your test scores or transcripts aren’t up to par. Begin planning early and seek out help to ensure you’re submitting the strongest applications possible.