For many applicants, starting the path to obtaining an MBA from the London Business School (LBS) is an exciting opportunity. However, getting into the school requires navigating a demanding application procedure, and essays are key to presenting candidate credentials. In this article, we will examine the nuances of the LBS MBA application essays and offer advice on addressing them effectively.
The LBS MBA application process aims to find applicants who can succeed in a fast-paced, diverse learning environment and have the necessary academic aptitude. The application essays play a vital role in this process by allowing applicants to express their career goals, highlight their distinctive experiences, and demonstrate their preparedness for the demands of the MBA program.
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Essay 1:
The first essay focuses on the applicant's career objectives and aspirations. Candidates might outline their post-MBA ambitions by emphasizing the particular positions and industries they hope to work in. It's critical that candidates articulate their goals succinctly and clearly, showing a well-thought-out trajectory that fits with their history and interests.
What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words)
This essay prompt from LBS is a standard career goals/why MBA essay, requiring applicants to outline their post-MBA plans and illustrate how their past work experience has prepared them for these goals. It's crucial to provide this information clearly and concisely, while also demonstrating an understanding of and enthusiasm for LBS's unique offerings and community.
Start by dedicating around 100-200 words to succinctly outline your post-MBA goals, specifying the job role you aim to pursue immediately after completing the program. You can briefly allude to the larger career trajectory this position represents.
Move on to discuss your past work experience and how it has equipped you for your future goals, utilizing another 100 or so words. Highlight one or two significant accomplishments that showcase your skills and demonstrate your readiness for the target role.
Finally, allocate at least 200 words to delve into the appeal of the LBS MBA program. Rather than generic statements, focus on specific elements of the program that align with your goals and interests. Discuss unique courses, clubs, or experiential learning opportunities offered by LBS that will facilitate your transition and contribute to your future success.
Admissions Office emphasized the importance of demonstrating a genuine excitement for LBS's programmatic offerings, diverse student community, and location in a global financial capital. Therefore, ensure your essay reflects a high degree of thoughtfulness and specificity in discussing both your preparedness for the target role and the ways in which LBS will uniquely prepare you for future success. Utilize insights gained from information sessions, conversations with current students and alumni, and thorough research beyond the program's website to enrich your discussion of the LBS MBA program.
Optional essay
Applicants should utilize the optional essay to address any gaps or discrepancies in their application when composing their essays. This essay offers the chance to exhibit growth and resilience while putting any academic or professional setbacks in perspective.
Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (500 words)
LBS has maintained consistency by using the same two essay questions across multiple admissions cycles. While applicants are provided fields in the online application to address academic weaknesses such as probation or class withdrawal, this section may also be utilized to address other application weaknesses or anomalies in professional backgrounds that could raise questions for the admissions committee. Although applicants may be tempted to share general information about accomplishments or interests, it's essential to note the use of the word "should" in the question, indicating a more restrictive approach compared to schools that inquire if there's anything the applicant "would like" the admissions committee to know. Therefore, any information shared should be of material importance to one's candidacy rather than falling into the category of "nice to know" details.
The LBS MBA application essays require careful consideration, as the school strongly emphasizes diversity and a global viewpoint. LBS is proud of its diverse student body, which includes people from a range of academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds. Thus, candidates must make an effort to explain how their distinct backgrounds and viewpoints can benefit the LBS community and advance the group's educational process.
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