Applying to business school is a serious endeavor, and it is not uncommon for prospective applicants to get confused by overwhelming amounts of information available or conflicting advice received from well-meaning friends or family. Using our 17 years of experience helping MBA applicants get accepted into top MBA programs, including HBS, Stanford, Wharton, CBS, Chicago Booth and many more, we compiled a list of the most common misconceptions about the MBA application process.
1. Business schools only want candidates with a certain career background.
While it is true that there are certain career paths where an MBA is common (e.g., Consulting and Investing Banking), there is no one ideal pre-MBA career. In fact, a unique career background can actually work in your favor. Business schools desire well-rounded classmates and appreciate the unique perspective that candidates with “non-traditional” backgrounds can bring to class conversations. In fact, we put “non-traditional” in quotes because business school applicants today are so diverse, there is really no such thing as a non-traditional background. However, if you are applying from a role where an MBA is not common (or even one where it is), the key is to show how your past experience and perspective can be leveraged during your future career.
2. There is a “right” career goal.
Similarly, you may be tempted to mention a career goal you think admissions committee members want to hear. Just because it is common for applicants to pursue consulting or investment banking does not mean this is the career path you should aspire to. Admissions committee members want passionate students who aspire to make wide-reaching impact. So, write about what you really want to do, provided it is logical and attainable, and articulate it well. If you need help with this, check out this blog.
3. Schools want you to tell them how wonderful they are.
Far too often I read about how an applicant will leverage Wharton’s “unmatched” alumni network or grow through Booth’s “renowned” curriculum. While all business schools want to know that you are truly interested in their programs, using over-the-top praise is not an effective way to articulate this message. Nor is filling your essay with facts about a particular program a good way to show that you have done your research. Instead, share thoughtful elements of their programs that you are looking to take advantage of. Ensure that these elements are specific to you and align with your background and goals.
4. You need to fit in everything you have accomplished.
Many candidates are tempted to throw everything but the kitchen sink into their essays. There is a concern that they will hurt their chances of success if they do not tell admissions committee members about everything they have done. However, this is not the case. A few well-told anecdotes that clearly demonstrate what makes you unique will be far more compelling than a long list of accomplishments. Show your passions and leadership by showing how you did a few things exceptionally well.
5. You should only apply to a few schools.
Years ago, applicants may have targeted only a few business schools. However, today our average applicant applies to 6 or more schools. The number of strong MBA programs is increasing. As more and more universities are investing in their business schools, candidates have numerous good options to consider. Simultaneously (and unsurprisingly), the applicant pool is becoming even more competitive, meaning that countless extremely qualified candidates are rejected each year. While it is true that MBA applications are time-consuming and each application is unique, successful applicants make the investment by applying to a wide range of schools. This strategy ensures they are ultimately successful getting into the best possible school. Plus, multiple acceptances can help increase your chances of securing a coveted scholarship.
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