Chicago Booth Scholars Program has opened the 2024-2025 application.
There is only one application deadline, on April 29, 2025, and the decision is due to be released on July 1, 2025. If you think that the Chicago Booth Scholars Program is for you, keep reading for Personal MBA Coach’s application essay tips.
Personal MBA Coach’s Chicago Booth Scholars MBA Essay Analysis and Tips
Short-Answer Question: What are your professional plans for your time in deferment prior to starting your MBA? (up to 250 words)
For this short-answer question, outline your pre-MBA plans for Booth. If you already have a job lined up, great! If not, write about the role you are hoping to have after finishing your current studies. Be as specific as possible in detailing both the title and company (or target company) and be sure to add a bit of detail about what you plan to accomplish and how this experience will help you succeed with your ultimate goal.
Chicago Booth Scholars MBA Essay 1:
How will the Booth MBA help you achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA career goals? (250-word minimum)
This first essay is a straightforward one and should include a few key things.
First, give Booth a bit of context as to where you are today. Though you likely have limited professional experience, applicants who successfully apply to the Chicago Booth Scholars Program generally have some leadership experience or an experience that has shaped their career plans.
Next, outline your specific short-term and long-term goals for Booth. Check out this blog for more details on how to think about post-MBA goals!
Finally, detail where Booth fits into the equation. Think about your experience and skill gaps and how a Booth MBA will help you to close them. Specificity is key here, so allow adequate time to research the Booth MBA program and be prepared to outline how you will use your time on campus to set you up for success.
Chicago Booth Scholars MBA Essay 2:
An MBA is as much about personal growth as it is about professional development. In addition to sharing your experience and goals in terms of career, we’d like to learn more about you outside of the office. Use this opportunity to tell us something about who you are. (250-word minimum)
This second Chicago Booth essay is a bit more open ended and gives applicants a chance to think about their own stories and what sets them apart. For more on crafting your personal story, check out this blog!
To approach this essay, evaluate what sets you apart from your peers and has prepared you to add something unique to the Chicago Booth classroom.
You could write about your background, your values or your unique upbringing here. Other potential topics to explore include on-campus leadership experiences, volunteer work, sports, or other hobbies and extracurricular activities.
While there is no stated maximum for the Chicago Booth essay questions, brevity is key. Hint: Do not write 1,000 words.
Optional Chicago Booth Essay
Is there any unclear information in your application that needs further explanation? If so, please use this section to clarify. (300 words maximum)
The Chicago Booth Scholars application also includes an optional essay question. For tips on handling this third (optional) Booth MBA essay, visit Personal MBA Coach’s blog on optional essays.
Personalized Booth Admissions Consulting with Personal MBA Coach
Ready to apply to the Chicago Booth Scholars Program? Schedule a consultation with Personal MBA Coach today to find out how we can help you with your Booth MBA Application!
