Every university and program is unique, just like every graduate student. In addition to the checklist below, some programs may require supplemental materials such as work or project samples, a portfolio, or English Proficiency Test Results (for international students).
- Online Application
Many top ranked business schools use a centralized university application portal for all their graduate programs. Even if you are applying to two programs within the same university, for example the residential MBA program and the EMBA program, it is important to determine whether the university requires a direct application for each program.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
As part of the application, candidates will be asked to submit a resume or CV. A resume is typically limited to one page and provides a tailored summary of your qualifications for graduate business school.
A CV is often multiple pages with no page limit and is typically used when applying for academic, research, education, and scientific positions.
- Essay
Graduate business admissions essays are a critical component of the application process. To save time and effort, applicants are often inclined to use the same essay for all programs for which they are applying. A slightly modified “stock” essay becomes obvious to admissions committee readers, especially when not all prompts are addressed, are not answered in sequential order, or do not align with the graduate program’s strengths and values. While it takes more reflection and time, it is best to answer the essay prompts, in relation to the program, and explain your sincere interest as an applicant. Because plagiarism detection software is used by some programs, your essay should reflect your individual motivation and goals. Be sure to cite sources!
- Letters of Recommendation
Requiring two to three letters of recommendation is common for most graduate business program applications. To assess your professional work experience, industry knowledge, and program fit, admissions committee members often prefer letters of recommendation from supervisors rather than professors. Be sure to provide recommenders with sufficient lead time when requesting a recommendation letter. To write a strong letter of support for your candidacy, recommenders will need time to review the graduate program and consider your relevant strengths and achievements. Providing a copy of your resume and essay will help your letter writers align their recommendation with your professional career goals.
- GMAT or GRE
Not all graduate business programs require a GMAT or GRE score. For programs requiring the GMAT or GRE exam, some of the most competitive programs do not require a minimum score. Instead, they offer average exam scores which are often used for rankings.
If you intend to attend graduate school within a few years after graduating with your bachelor’s degree, consider taking the GMAT or GRE while you are still in “test taking” mode as a student. Business schools consider your GMAT or GRE score valid for five years.
Take time to understand test formats and reporting. For the GMAT, you must send your free score report to (up to five) schools within 48 hours of your official score being made available on mba.com. For the GRE, you may select up to four schools to send your results to at the end of the exam on your test day. Additional score reports for the GMAT and GRE cost $35.
- Application Fee
Application fees range from $50 to $300 per application (Griffith, 2023). Fee waivers might be available if you attend a recruitment event, work through a partnership program or alumni connection, are part of an underrepresented group, or demonstrate need. Be prepared to submit documentation if you would like to be considered for an application fee waiver.
- Transcripts
Most graduate applications allow you to upload unofficial transcripts for all prior credit bearing academic work. Once you are admitted or matriculate, you are usually required to submit official transcripts. Official transcripts are housed and sent by a registrar’s office. You will need to contact your baccalaureate college/university and complete a form to pay for and authorize the release of your transcripts. You will need to provide the recipient’s delivery method which is normally electronic and outlined as part of the graduate application.
- Interviews
Some programs require interviews in-person or by video while others make interviewing optional. Be prepared for video interviews and an increasing use of AI. Take advantage of mock interviews with career coaches to help prepare. Dress the part of a business professional and wear a suit to make the best first impression.
Applying to graduate programs is a time commitment and requires research and a thoughtful approach. Financial costs may include application fees, exam fees, study preparation materials or courses, possible travel expenses for interviews, transcript fees, and a deposit. When you make a match that works for you and your long-term career goals, the price is worth it.
References
Griffith, C. (2023, July 20). The cost of the MBA application process. https://www.clearadmit.com/2023/07/the-cost-of-the-mba-application-process/#:~:text=Although%20fee%20waiver%20opportunities%20are,can%20cost%20%245%20to%20%2425
