Age and full time MBA

The honest answer is yes it will be a factor at a top school for a fulltime program. They will wonder why you suddenly need one now. The view is either you are excelling in your career and you dont need one or you are stuck in a rut and think this will get you out. It is doable just like getting in straight out of college is but you are really going to have to show that you have done great things and you NEED an mba.

The question of why a fulltime MBA instead of a part-time or even more importantly an executive MBA is one you are going to have to convince them of.

it's the same for all of us - we have to convince them we need it now. as stated above, you have to do a little more convincing. there are lots of folks in my class who are a bit older, 30-40. I don't know how they spun it, though.

There are several people I've met who are 30,31,32 here at the GSB. I can't think of any past that, but I don't know everyone. I think the age thing isn't a big deal as long as you can explain why you want an MBA now. Its the same challenge a 23 year old or a 28 year old would face.

Thanks rhyme. I am going to info session at GSB this friday and hoping to meet few folks to get a better feel.

Quite an old post here.

But 13 years later, and the answer to the age question is still the same. No, schools do not simply look at the age and give you lower chances of admission.

It’s all about the narrative for your career and why an MBA now. Also, it’s still a myth that consulting firms and investment banks don’t want older candidates. The reason the ages for these roles appear younger is because of selection bias. Folks in their 30s generally choose careers that balance work and life. But those over 30 who recruit for consulting and banking do get those jobs with the same chances as anyone else who puts in the work and shows they want it.

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With a solid application, candidates between 30 and 35 years of age may even have a better chance of getting accepted to the MBA programs of their choice.
Consider how much work experience you have had thus far. Have there been any noteworthy achievements that will serve as a foundation for your future career? As an applicant over 30 years old, you likely have an impressive background that will support you as a candidate. Use this experience to show the admissions board that you are committed and motivated, and that you have much to contribute to a “younger” class. You should use your interview to demonstrate you are absolutely committed to your studies.

For more tips for applying to top MBA programs at an older age, and for a suggested list of MBA programs that are specifically designed for older candidates, please visit: https://www.aringo.com/mba-over-30/