Texas McCombs has released its full-time MBA essay questions and deadlines for the 2024–2025 application cycle. This year, the school has moved away from a 500-word cover letter and introduced three short-answer essay prompts instead.
If you are interested in the McCombs MBA program, check out the latest class profile to assess if the program may be a strong fit for you.
The 2024-2025 Texas McCombs Application Deadlines Are:
Round 1: October 15, 2024
Round 2: January 15, 2025
Round 3: April 1, 2025
2024–2025 Texas McCombs Essays:
Texas McCombs Essay 1: At Texas McCombs, we do things a little differently. We embrace those who take the initiative and forge new paths. What ambitious goal or change do you aim to achieve with an MBA, and why is Texas McCombs your ideal launch pad? (250 words)
This first essay is a bit of a tall order for only 250 words. This is your chance to tell McCombs admissions directors both WHAT you want to do after business school and WHY Texas McCombs is your ideal school. Some MBA applications allocate 500 words for this same content so it will be crucial to be succinct.
Personal MBA Coach recommends that you include very specific short-term and long-term goals here. For more on how to develop a strong goal statement, check out this article!
Once you have detailed your goals, tell McCombs where they fit in. To approach this essay, research all that Texas McCombs has to offer and select the most relevant and compelling offerings (in and out of the classroom). As you cover these, be specific about what you hope to learn. Keep in mind, less is more here so Personal MBA Coach recommends that you avoid a laundry list here or vague things you will do.
Texas McCombs Essay 2: Here, you are what’s next. At this pivotal crossroads where you’re deciding your future path, the Texas McCombs MBA experience will equip you with the tools and mindset to make “what’s next” happen in your career. Please share unique qualities you possess that highlight your potential to shake up the status quo in your professional life. (250 words)
This essay gives applicants a great opportunity to delve into what sets them apart from other applicants. While there is no room for a long story here, you may want to consider this article on how to develop a personal story as you brainstorm what to cover in this essay. Remember that admissions directors are looking to create well-rounded classes, so you want to make sure you are including specific examples of your own uniqueness and potential. Talking about vague qualities (i.e., I am kind, or I am hard working) won’t cut it here.
Texas McCombs Essay 3: The University of Texas at Austin’s motto, “What starts here changes the world,” embodies a spirit of impact and transformation. What fuels your drive to lead change and make your mark in the world? (250 words)
With this final essay, you want to tell McCombs about what motivates you. This is the “why” behind your goals. While there is no wrong answer, this is your chance to show that you are truly passionate about what you plan to do in your career, so you want to write from the heart. If you have a personal motivation to achieve your goals, this is a great time to tell the admissions committee about it! But do not force this. Instead, authenticity is key, and you do not need to share a personal story here.
Video Assessment: Texas McCombs has always been at the forefront of innovation and continuous improvement, consistently seeking new ways to enhance the application process for prospective MBA candidates. In line with our school mission and values, we introduced a dynamic video assessment component as part of the 2022-23 admission cycle, offering an alternative approach to a more traditional essay and interview format. Given all applicants will complete the video assessment, MBA candidates will have increased access to the application process and the opportunity to share their stories with us in their own voice. Through the video assessment, the admissions committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond a resume, test scores, and transcripts. Lastly, the video assessment will enable Texas McCombs to reduce bias in the admissions process by providing all applicants with a structured and consistent assessment experience.
All applicants will be required to complete the Video Assessment shortly after submitting their application and paying the fee. Applicants have 7 days to complete the assessment upon receiving access to the video submission platform. There will be 4 question prompts and applicants will have 90 seconds to answer each prompt.
The main piece of advice here is to treat this like a formal interview: dress appropriately, use relevant examples, but ultimately remember to show the real you. For more tips on how to tackle video essays, check out this blog.
Optional Essay: Please explain any gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, and/or academic performance issues that may help the admission committee in reviewing your application. (Limit: 250 words)
Only those with extenuating circumstances should respond to the optional Texas McCombs essay. Take a look at Personal MBA Coach’s blog on optional essays and additional application extras for guidance.
If you are seeking additional help with your Texas McCombs application, visit our comprehensive services to learn how Personal MBA Coach can help set you up for success.
