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This week Chicago Booth confirmed the MBA application essay questions for 2020-2021 applicants. Once again, Booth will require two essays, each with no strict word limit.

The first question remained unchanged once again, while Chicago Booth altered the second essay question this year.

Essay 1: “How will the Booth MBA help you achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA career goals?”

For this question, you will want to discuss your specific short-term and long-term goals. Be sure to explain a bit of your thinking behind these goals, allowing the reader to understand both how you developed them and what your higher-level aspirations are.

As with other “goals” essays, you are also expected to touch upon your past successes, explaining how they are relevant to your future objectives. This question does not require you to walk through your entire resume, and candidates are advised not to do so. Instead, focus only on your past to establish your key skills as well as how and why you will succeed in the future.

Next, think about your skills gaps and how a Booth MBA will help you to close these gaps. Be specific here and take the time to do your research. Detail the classes, programs, or clubs you hope to take advantage of on campus and how they will help you to achieve your post-MBA career goals. Again, do not include a laundry list. Instead carefully think through how each area will help you fill in the necessary pieces of the puzzle. Finally, be sure to show an understanding of Booth’s culture.

Essay 2: “An MBA is as much about personal growth as it is about professional development. In addition to sharing your experience and goals in terms of career, we’d like to learn more about you outside of the office. Use this opportunity to tell us something about who you are...” (250-word minimum)

Chicago Booth is pivoting from its previous focus on choices, which included a combination of personal and professional context. This year, the second Chicago Booth essay challenges applicants to think about personal aspects of their profile.

At Personal MBA Coach we specialize in helping our clients develop their personal stories. This essay is an opportunity to tell more about yours. As you brainstorm topics for this MBA application essay, remember that admissions committees (including Chicago Booth) are looking to create a well-rounded class. Think about how you are unique. This is your chance to think about what sets you apart from other applicants.

Potential topics to explore here include passions, values (but be careful not to copy your Kellogg essay if you are applying to both schools), hobbies, and extracurricular activities.

While there is no stated maximum for the Chicago Booth essay questions, we advise our clients to be focused and succinct. This is not the time to write a 1000-word essay.

In fact, many schools this year are lowering their word limits or the number of essays required. Stanford GSB reduced its combined word count by 100 words this year, a major change given how long the essays had previously remained unchanged. Michigan Ross, UCLA, and Duke Fuqua are also among the schools that reduced the required writing. While in many ways this may seem like welcome news, it highlights the importance of choosing your words carefully and editing. Writing less is actually harder than writing more. (Be on the lookout for a future blog on how to say more with fewer words.)

Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Nearly all MBA programs have confirmed their MBA application essays for 2020-2021 hopefuls. While some top programs including Harvard Business School, Kellogg, Dartmouth Tuck, Yale SOM and NYU Stern left their MBA application essays unchanged this year, many programs changed their essay prompts. Personal MBA Coach devotes considerable time to tracking all MBA essay questions and looking for trends and themes.

This year, shortening essays was a common trend!

A number of top schools including Michigan Ross, Stanford GSB, UCLA Anderson, and Duke Fuqua are asking candidates to write LESS! UCLA Anderson now has only one 250-word required essay (along with a few short answer questions which will be another ~200-250 words). Michigan Ross now requires only 400 words across all essays. Duke Fuqua reduced its 2-page essay to 300 words.

While many applicants may be excited by these reduced word counts, writing less is actually HARDER than writing more. It can be a challenge to summarize your life’s accomplishments into one or two short essays.

Personal MBA Coach spends the greatest amount of time with our clients on the actual editing process, helping clients maximize each available word. Even with MBA essays that have no word limits, it is crucial to be succinct.

Here are our top four tips for writing more with fewer words.

1) Resist the urge to include unrelated details

Business applicants are accomplished. Naturally, it can be tempting to try to include as many of these accomplishments as possible in your application essays. However, it is crucial that you avoid this urge.

For each application essay, think about what the question asks and why the admissions committee is asking this question. Do not include any detail that does not cover this what or why. For example, a question asking how an MBA will help does not require hundreds of words on your past professional success, however impressive it may be. Similarly, a question on career goals does not require you to explain the industry dynamics in detail or the reasons behind your perspective on the industry. With each sentence you add to your essays, consider the question you are actually answering. If it is not related to the question asked, cut it!

2) Avoid repetition

With limited words available to sell yourself, there is rarely a need to say anything twice. Regardless of how successful you might have been in your role, admissions committee members do not need to read about it multiple times. Whether you founded a non-profit, were the first in your class to be promoted, or were a Division I athlete, tell each story one time. While naturally you can (and should) touch on a broad theme or aspect of your personal story from multiple angles, this is not the same as repeating the same story.

3) Leverage all aspects of the application

As a natural extension of point 3, use all aspects of your application to your advantage. Even for schools requiring very short essays, there are countless other aspects of the application to pay attention to. Ensure every piece counts! Take the time to carefully craft answers to your short-answer questions. Prepare your recommenders to ensure their stories complement (but do not reiterate) yours. Use every line in your resume as efficiently as possible to show your leadership and success. In addition, video essays and pre/post interview essays provide other ways to sell yourself.

Leave plenty of time for these application extras.

In fact, Personal MBA Coach advises our round 1 clients to finish their essays by the end of July (and round 2 clients to finish by late November) whenever possible to allocate adequate time to other crucial MBA application components.

4) Look for every opportunity to trim words

As we have said countless times, edit, edit, edit. Ensure every word counts. If there is a way to say it more succinctly, do! Cutting excess words will lead to stronger writing while giving you extra space to cover details that really set you apart. You’d be surprised how a trained eye can cut 50-100+ words from a 400-word essay without deleting a single piece of true content.

Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Last week, Personal MBA Coach founder, Scott Edinburgh, sat down virtually with Diana Economy, Director of Full-Time MBA Admissions at University of Michigan Ross, to discuss the Michigan Ross experience and application process for prospective students.

As expected, the upcoming application cycle and academic year will introduce some changes, such as shortened MBA application essay requirements and a hybrid learning plan. Get Diana’s insight on Ross’s response to COVID-19, advice for applicants, and predictions for the future of the Michigan Ross MBA program.

Watch here to learn how to position yourself for success at Michigan Ross!

Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Over the past 13 years, Personal MBA Coach has heard countless “myths” from MBA hopefuls. While there are many misconceptions about the MBA application process (do not miss our upcoming webinar “Behind the MBA Admissions Curtain”), certain ones frequently rise to the top of the list. Personal MBA Coach would like to bust these myths and help candidates focus on what really matters in the MBA application process.


1. You should apply to only a few schools

Years ago, applicants may have targeted only a few business schools. However, today my average applicant applies to 5+ 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 not surprisingly), 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 additional schools. This strategy ensures they are ultimately successful getting into the best possible school and when working with us, the highest amount of scholarship dollars.


2. 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. Instead, do your research and thoughtfully share elements of their programs that you are looking to take advantage of. Ensure that these elements are specific to you and make sense relative to your background and goals.


3. Business schools want candidates only with a certain career background

While it is true that there are certain career paths for which an MBA is common (e.g. Consulting and Investment 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 nontraditional backgrounds can bring to class conversations. What’s key is to show how your past experience and perspective can be leveraged during your future career path.


4. There is a “correct” career goal

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 and well-rounded classes. So write about what you really want to do, provided it is logical and attainable, and articulate it well. (Check out our blog on articulating your career goals here.)


5. You need to fit in everything you have accomplished

Many candidates are tempted to throw everything but the kitchen sink into their essays. They are concerned that they will hurt their chances of success if they do not tell admissions committee members everything they have done. However, this is not the case. A few well-told stories that clearly demonstrate what makes you unique will be far more compelling. Show your passions and leadership by sharing how you did a few things exceptionally well.

Need help? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

It is no surprise that COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on the global economy. While many MBA applicants (correctly) believe that NOW is a great time to leave the workforce and pursue an MBA, funding is likely a major concern!

Last year, Personal MBA Coach's clients earned over $5.5M in scholarships! Earlier this year, I shared with Poets & Quants founder, John Byrne, how my clients had received record scholarship amounts last season.

While many top schools use scholarships to attract candidates during weaker application cycles, we expect scholarships to continue (if not increase) this year not only to attract candidates but also to drive affordability in this challenging economic environment.

Personal MBA Coach is here to help you maximize your chances of MBA Scholarship success!

First, let discuss the basics on MBA scholarships.

Scholarships/fellowships fall into two major categories:

1. Merit-based money offered as a result of the MBA application.

The vast majority of scholarship $$ are offered based on your original MBA application. They do not require you to submit anything additional. Schools offer this money to candidates they are trying to attract (often away from other schools).

This money can come directly from the school itself, having nothing to do with the applicant’s specific demographic or professional background. Or the scholarship may be in collaboration with another organization. While this other organization may suggest guidelines for consideration, it is up to the schools to decide which candidates actually receive the award.

For example, one of our partners, the Forté Foundation, gives the following guidelines to admissions directors selecting Forté Fellowship recipients:

· Candidates should exhibit exemplary leadership in one or more ways: academic leadership, team leadership, community leadership, and creative leadership.

· Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to women and girls via personal mentorship or community involvement. Such commitment is in alignment with the mission of Forté Foundation.

· Schools are encouraged to nominate fellows from their schools who represent diverse educational and work backgrounds, career goals, ethnicities and citizenship.

2. Scholarships that students apply for directly.

These scholarships generally target specific candidates based on industry, ethnicity, gender, etc. A separate application is required for each of these scholarships, and specific criteria apply.

Examples include:

The Consortium (note: you can also apply to participating schools through the scholarship application): Since 1966, we have offered more than $465 million in fellowships to the best and brightest MBA students in the country. We have programs that cover full tuition and mandatory fees for two years of full-time study (Emory also offers a one-year program).

The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship For New Americans: The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans is a $90,000 merit-based fellowship exclusively for immigrants and children of immigrants who are pursuing graduate school in the United States. The program draws nearly 1,800 applications annually for just 30 fellowships.

[urlhttps://militarymba.net/scholarship/]Military MBA[/url]: Military MBA is an education network for military officers and NCOs who are interested in obtaining and applying their MBA graduate degrees for career advancement. We represent MBA schools and prospective MBA students who have a background in the military.

Now that we know the basics about MBA Scholarships, find out what you can do to maximize your chances of earning one these coveted scholarships.

Here are 4 key tips from Personal MBA Coach.

1) Ensure your application stands out!

The good news for candidates hoping to receive a scholarship is that the same advice Personal MBA Coach provides on developing stand-out applications applies to earning scholarships, too (which is why our clients do so well!).

Business schools look for well-rounded classes. For candidates hoping to secure extra $$ it is even more crucial that your application tells a solid story about how you will add unique value on campus.

At the end of the day, the school wants to pay you to be one of the best students on campus. This can be because of your outstanding academic qualifications or because you will contribute on campus in a unique way.

2) Court your target schools.

MBA Admissions Directors do not want to hand out precious money only to lose the candidate to another top MBA program. Therefore, while it is not required, getting to know a school never hurts your chances of getting $$.

While COVID-19 is preventing MBA applicants from visiting campus, there are many options for reaching out to and connecting with your target MBA programs. In the best-case scenario, you will build a rapport with an admissions representative and directly improve your chances of earning a scholarship.

Even if this does not happen, attending online events and interacting with the school you hope to attend will give you valuable material to make your essays stand out. Remember, students are often the most valuable resources since admissions directors may not be as available to chat with you.

3) Submit your applications as early as possible.

With a limited amount of money to go around, the earlier you can get your applications in, the better. Schools also want to be sure that their classes are filled with well-rounded students and are more likely to use scholarships to ensure this earlier in the process.

By round 3, there is likely to be less money left.

That said, scholarships sometimes do open up even late in the year!

4) Excel in as many areas as possible.

While this may seem obvious, I often see candidates who have a decent GMAT/GRE score but have not put in the extra effort to maximize it. If you took the test once and did little preparation, consider getting a tutor to reach your full potential!

Similarly, I see candidates who do not want to dedicate time outside of the office to beef up their extracurricular profiles.

While I always advise that candidates put their best foot forward, this is even more crucial for those looking for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients most often excel in multiple areas.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Personal MBA Coach interviewed Nicole Shay, Associate Director, Admissions, at Columbia Business School to get an insider’s look at what is new at Columbia, what makes Columbia unique and how candidates can best stand out! Plus, find out how COVID-19 is changing the Columbia MBA application process and more. Do not miss this rare and valuable advice!

Nicole Shay: Associate Director, Admissions, Columbia Business School

Scott Edinburgh: Founder, Personal MBA Coach

Personal MBA Coach: How did you first get involved in admissions?

Nicole: I started my higher education career working in program administration for a university in Philadelphia. I found myself working closely with the admissions team there, and was recruited for a role helping to oversee admissions for ten biomedical science graduate programs. About five years ago, after deciding to move to New York City, an opportunity at Columbia became available which allowed me to remain in admissions, but pivot to business candidates. I gladly accepted!

Personal MBA Coach: What excites you most about your work?

Nicole: I really enjoy the opportunity to connect with candidates from across the globe and share how a Columbia Business School MBA can help them reach their professional, and oftentimes personal, potential. Situated within Columbia University, and in Manhattan, a Columbia Business School student is offered a multitude of resources regardless of what industry or function she chooses to pursue. Helping a candidate find a path to best fit her MBA education needs is extremely fulfilling. For candidates looking to make a larger career transition, we have the traditional 20 month August entry. For candidates working in Family Business, entrepreneurship, those who are sponsored, or looking to make a smaller career transition post MBA, our 16 month January entry program might be the right fit. For candidates who are a little further along in their careers, we also have a suite of Executive MBA programs, including EMBA-Global, a partnership with University of Hong Kong and London Business School.

Personal MBA Coach: Focusing on CBS, what are you most excited about coming up on campus?

Nicole: In February the Business School received the fantastic news that our program would be formally STEM designated. This designation recognizes the ongoing efforts to emphasize technology, data science, and analytics within the curriculum. The STEM-designated degree also increases the length an international student may work in the U.S. under an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) work permit.

Additionally, in late 2018 the Columbia Business School admissions team launched the first application cycle of our new Deferred Enrollment Program. This program allows seniors in an undergraduate program, or full-time graduate students who entered a master’s program directly after earning a bachelor’s degree, to apply for admission now, but start the MBA after gaining two to five years of work experience. It has been a fantastic experience to visit college campuses and discuss how an MBA can benefit professionals across all industries, with varying academic backgrounds. This program allows undergraduates to have more control of their professional and educational options a few years into their career and allows our team to demonstrate the value of an MBA for those who otherwise may not have considered it.

Personal MBA Coach: To address the elephant in the room, what is changing in the admissions cycle this year due to Covid-19?

Nicole: There have, of course, been a multitude of changes related to the current pandemic. What holds steady is our shared dedication to supporting our students, our community at Columbia Business School and the communities around us. We have seen students, faculty, and staff going above and beyond to put courses online this past spring, to host social hours and speaker events to stay connected, even when we couldn’t be together, and to find creative ways to give back to first responders and communities who have been hardest hit by the pandemic. It has been inspiring.

The admissions team has been working to bring in a diverse and vibrant class, and we hope to meet them on campus soon. Many will be on campus in our new hyflex model this fall, where students will rotate when they will be on campus, in masks, socially distant, with many of our faculty teaching in person keeping safety in mind. The rest of the class will join virtually and have a conversation in real time with enhanced technology in the classroom. It is a different experience than in the past, but the experience of learning leadership in this time of crisis is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

From the admissions perspective, this next year will be similar to past years. We are still looking for a diverse group of candidates, with a variety of strengths, who have done their research and are excited about the opportunities they will find at Columbia. We are looking to bring in teammates who will keep our community strong and will engage with each other to broaden their mindset. The world is always changing, and a CBS MBA will help our students lead in any environment, whether it is in a crisis, or a time of calm and prosperity.

Personal MBA Coach: What is a common misconception about Columbia Business School?

Nicole: I have encountered many candidates who believe that because they don’t have a bachelor’s degree in business or economics, or aren’t working in finance or consulting, there isn’t a place for them in an MBA program, or specifically at Columbia Business School. What makes Columbia Business School such an inspiring learning environment is the diversity of the student body. We have many students with social science, journalism, and arts degrees, and whose work experience in social impact, luxury goods, and theater, brings richness and depth to the classroom conversation. Further, we have a vibrant campus culture and tight-knit community with nearly 100 different student organizations across a wide range of professional and personal areas of interest. So that student with the music interest could help lead a trip to the New York Philharmonic with other members of the Arts Society organization, for example.

Personal MBA Coach: How do you best see students taking advantage of being in NYC while studying for their MBA?

Nicole: Some of Columbia Business School’s most popular electives are our Immersion Seminars which allow students to engage with industry practitioners through downtown site visits to multiple organizations each term. Many students also choose to participate in part-time, in-semester internships because of the school’s proximity to the offices of organizations across all industries. These part-time in-semester internships may be counted for course credit, if students are able to secure a faculty sponsor. Additionally, Columbia Business School has over 16,000 alumni in New York City and 47,000 alumni worldwide. Students can leverage this network for coffee chats, mentorship, and to carve their own paths for in-semester internship opportunities.

Personal MBA Coach: I was recently on campus for a Forte Foundation event and saw the dynamic community in action, even from just a corner of the campus. What is something you think students underutilize / are not aware of?

Nicole: When I have the opportunity to present with current students, the resource they often mention wishing they had better utilized is our Executives in Residence program. The Executives in Residence Program is comprised of twenty-five retired, or semi-retired, senior executives and senior partners who span almost every industry. Those that do take advantage of this opportunity talk about how impressed they were by the amount of thoughtful insight that was given during their interactions, and many of these executives go on to be active members of the student’s network.

Personal MBA Coach: I know we both travel together to many MBA events. I see a lot, but from your perspective, what is one piece of advice you would give to applicants before they arrive to best utilize these fairs?

Nicole: Event attendees who spend time asking questions that demonstrate a genuine interest in Columbia Business School and wanting to understand how we can meet their needs will get the most out of a conversation with a member of the admissions team. It will be a more beneficial interaction for the candidate if she comes to the event with a basic understanding of our program, rather than needing to use the time to ask for information readily available on our website (such as our average number of years work experience). This is 100% relevant for virtual interactions too. A candidate with smart, thoughtful questions is going to standout regardless of the format.

Personal MBA Coach: What other changes are you looking forward to at Columbia?

Nicole: Columbia Business School has always done a fantastic job of making sure coursework and student opportunities are contemporary, so I am always excited to hear about the new coursework being introduced each semester. Courses like “Introduction to Programming Using Python”, “Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies and Digital Tokens Demystified”, and “Virtual Reality & Artificial Intelligence” are a few of our recent additions, and have quickly become favorites among our students. A focus on technology has certainly been underscored with the introduction of our Dean, Costis Maglaras. Dean Maglaras has a demonstrated commitment to data-focused scholarship, and I am sure there will be more to come. And, of course we are excited for the opening of our brand new campus in Manhattanville in 2022.

Personal MBA Coach: What advice do you have for applicants interested in the new deferred admissions option?

Nicole: My advice for anyone interested in the Deferred Enrollment Program is to start preparing early for the GMAT or GRE. This component tends to be the most time consuming aspect of the application. Apart from the standardized test, I would encourage candidates to get to know Columbia Business School through one of our many virtual events. From anywhere in the world candidates can chat with a current student, attend an MBA class, or log in to an information webinar. It is easier now than ever to connect with our team.

Personal MBA Coach: How do you think the admissions process will evolve over time?

Nicole: We continue to strive to find new ways to connect with diverse student populations. Our team does a fantastic job planning events in the fall for diverse groups, but these are still self-selecting. We are continuing to explore ways to show those who might consider themselves “non-traditional”* how a business education can benefit them professionally. I think the Deferred Enrollment Program has been a great launch pad for this, as we are seeing peers bringing their friends to group meetings, encouraging them to learn more, and these are often stellar candidates who may have not otherwise seen how the MBA can benefit their professional plans.

*We’ve had Grammy nominated opera singers, journalists, Broadway actors, social scientists, and almost every other professional background join the class, and we think a “non-traditional” perspective is one of the features that makes Columbia so great!

Personal MBA Coach: What do you wish applicants would do differently when applying?

Nicole: Be yourself when applying! There are no molds to fit or quotas to fill at Columbia Business School. We are looking for talented candidates from every walk of life, with diverse experiences to bring to the table, and who will succeed academically and professionally, while also contributing positively to the Columbia Business School community.

Personal MBA Coach: Do you have any advice for applicants excited about CBS that isn’t easily found on your website?

Nicole: I would encourage anyone interested in applying to Columbia Business School, or even just curious about the benefits of an MBA, to get to know us. Our admissions team does a great job planning a robust slate of events to suit candidates at any point in the admissions process. While the information shared at these events can be found on the website, the insight an applicant will gain from hearing from our team members, current students, alumni, and faculty that participate cannot. An applicant can sign up to receive invitations to relevant events by using our Stay in Touch form.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Some of the most frequent questions I get from applicants are: what does a successful candidate profile look like or how did X get accepted into so many schools?

Naturally, there are countless answers to these questions, but in response to applicant demand, I post Candidate Success Stories from time to time.

Below I have shared a deep dive into one recent success including a Q&A with the candidate to shed some light on the process that I take with my clients and share lessons this candidate has graciously offered to pass on.

Find out how this candidate was accepted to 4 top schools and secured $244K in scholarships.

Profile Overview

Schools Admitted To: Harvard Business School, Wharton, Chicago Booth (w/ Scholarship), Yale SOM (w/ Scholarship)

Scholarship: $244K

Gender/Ethnicity: Female/Vietnamese

Years of Experience: 4

GMAT: Mid/High 700’s

Pre-MBA Experience: Financial services

Education: Ivy League

GPA: High 3’s

Candidate Q&A

Personal MBA Coach: Why did you decide to pursue an MBA?

Candidate: After working in financial services for a few years, I was interested in learning more about opportunities in consulting and social impact and wanted to leverage the MBA to pursue these opportunities.

Personal MBA Coach: How did you learn about Personal MBA Coach?

Candidate: I learned about Personal MBA Coach through their partnership with the Forte program, of which I was a member.

Personal MBA Coach: Why did you decide to turn to Personal MBA Coach for help?

Candidate: Since I was looking to apply to several business schools, I wanted to work with a coach to better understand the nuanced differences between them, and also to help stay organized throughout the long application process!

Personal MBA Coach: What was the hardest part of the application process?

Candidate: The hardest part of the application process for me was the essay-writing. Personal MBA Coach was a great coach throughout this part of the application. They challenged me and kept me accountable, while helping me flesh out parts of my background, work experiences and interests to highlight –– all while keeping everything in my own voice.

Personal MBA Coach: How did you decide on which schools to apply to?

Candidate: I had an initial list of schools in mind and Personal MBA Coach and I discussed which ones on the list would be great fits for my background and aspirations.

Personal MBA Coach: What was the biggest surprise for you throughout the application process?

Candidate: The biggest surprise for me was how much time each component of the application process took! There are a lot of deliverables throughout the application process, and working with Personal MBA Coach definitely helped me manage my time and stay accountable throughout it all.

Personal MBA Coach: How did Personal MBA Coach help you?

Candidate: From early on, Personal MBA Coach helped me develop a personal timeline / strategy for the application cycle. Throughout the process, they were great about pushing me through the mini deadlines to ensure that I was on track.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

This year, the MIT Sloan School of Management MBA application remains the same as the previous cycle. Again, the school requests that applicants submit a cover letter, organizational chart and 60-second video statement as part of their application.

Below, please find this year’s 2020-2021 application deadlines along with Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to tackle the MIT Sloan application.

MIT Sloan’s 2020-2021 MBA Application Deadlines:

Round 1: October 1, 2020
Round 2: January 19, 2021
Round 3: April 12, 2021

MIT Sloan Cover Letter:

MIT Sloan seeks students whose personal characteristics demonstrate that they will make the most of the incredible opportunities at MIT, both academic and non-academic. We are on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. We seek thoughtful leaders with exceptional intellectual abilities and the drive and determination to put their stamp on the world. We welcome people who are independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. We want people who can redefine solutions to conventional problems, and strive to preempt unconventional dilemmas with cutting-edge ideas. We demand integrity and respect passion.

Taking the above into consideration, please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA Program. Your letter should conform to a standard business correspondence, include one or more examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Assistant Deans of Admissions, Rod Garcia and Dawna Levenson (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation).

Those applicants wondering how to get into MIT Sloan should keep in mind that the MIT cover letter requires quite a different approach from other MBA application essays. Candidates really need to reflect on their most significant accomplishments here and make it clear what they will bring to the table once they arrive at Sloan.

We actually advise Sloan MBA candidates to approach this cover letter as they would any professional cover letter. Ask for a place in the MIT Sloan class and tell the reader who you are. This is not the time to repeat your resume but, as with any cover letter, provide greater depth to your character and accomplishments. With such a short length, you will need to choose each word carefully and select the most compelling stories to tell. Think about MIT’s values as you write this letter and consider instances where you exhibited innovative thinking and leadership.

Finally, note SPECIFICALLY how you will bring this experience to the MIT Sloan MBA program and how you will use it to create meaningful contributions within the community.

MIT Sloan Video Statement:

In addition to the cover letter, Sloan asks candidates to complete a video statement: Applicants are required to upload a 1 minute (60 second) video as part of their application. In your video, you should introduce yourself to your future classmates, tell us about your past experiences, and touch on why MIT Sloan is the best place for you to pursue your degree.

Videos should adhere to the following guidelines:

- No more than 1 minute (60 seconds) in length
- Single take (no editing)
- You should be speaking directly to the camera
- Do not include background music or subtitles

For the video component of your MIT Sloan MBA application, it is most important to be yourself. This is a chance for admissions committee members to evaluate applicants’ physical presence and delivery. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to learn more about you both personally and professionally.

Keep in mind the direct request to address why MIT Sloan is a good fit. For this section of the video, candidates should be specific, thinking about particular aspects of the MBA program that appeal to them. With a lot to cover in one minute, be sure you strike a careful balance between talking about yourself and explaining your desire to attend MIT Sloan.

While you do not want to memorize the video statement and sound overly rehearsed, we do advise candidates to write out a rough script in advance of filming and to practice multiple times!

Consider factors such as audio quality, demeanor, and fluency in addition to the content itself. Personal MBA Coach includes analyses of sample videos in its comprehensive packages.

Organizational Chart:

Please upload an organizational chart which outlines the internal structure of your department and company. Limit to two pages.

Note: You may choose to create your own document or redact individuals' names. However, please provide as much information as possible.

We should be able to see your line of reporting to the top of your organization, and to easily find you, your peers, your supervisor, their peers, and your direct reports (should you have any), as well as any recommender or references from your current organization. For those in consulting, please submit an organizational chart of a current or previous project you were staffed on.

Click here to view a sample organizational chart.

There is no right or wrong format for the organizational chart. The key is that is it easy to follow and understand and shows your direct reports (if any) and who you report to. Most companies should have a chart that you can work from.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

You may also like these other blog posts:

How to Write Winning MBA Application Essays

How to Maximize Your Chance for an MBA Scholarship

How To Ensure Your MBA Letters of Recommendation Shine

Once again, Kellogg School of Management asks applicants to answer two essay questions. This year, Kellogg is minimizing changes and keeping both essays the same as the previous application cycle.

Read Personal MBA Coach’s Kellogg essay analysis below for key tips on tackling this year’s questions for the full-time MBA program for the class of 2023.

The 2020-2021 Kellogg MBA application deadlines are as follows:

Round 1: September 16, 2020
Round 2: January 6, 2021
Round 3: April 7, 2021

Both of these MBA application essays are fairly broad, giving candidates the opportunity to reflect on and discuss multiple aspects of their candidacy. However, remember to strive for quality over quantity when crafting your essays. With a 450-word limit for each, your responses should be particularly succinct.

Kellogg’s 2020-2021 MBA Application Essays:

“This is your chance to tell us why you think Kellogg is the right place for you. As you get started, remind yourself of the experiences that led you here and how they have shaped where you want to go.”

Essay 1: Kellogg’s purpose is to educate, equip and inspire brave leaders who create lasting value. Provide a recent example where you have demonstrated leadership and created value. What challenges did you face and what did you learn? (450 words)

Essay 2: Values are what guide you in your life and work. What values are important to you and how have they influenced you? (450 words)

Essay 3 (MMM Applicants Only): The five core values of the MMM Program are Curiosity, Creativity, Empathy, Open-mindedness, and a Learning Mindset. Describe a situation in which you demonstrated one of these values. Why is this value an important part of the MMM experience for you? (250 words)

Additional Information: If needed, use this section to briefly describe any extenuating circumstances (e.g. unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, inconsistent or questionable academic performance, etc.).

Personal MBA Coach’s MBA Essay Writing Tips:

Essay 1: Kellogg’s purpose is to educate, equip and inspire brave leaders who create lasting value. Provide a recent example where you have demonstrated leadership and created value. What challenges did you face and what did you learn? (450 words)

Many candidates are likely to share a professional story to answer this first prompt. However, strong leadership examples in your extracurricular activities could also work well here. Keep in mind the request for a recent example when developing your response to this first application essay.

Be sure to think of a significant undertaking where you can clearly demonstrate the value you added. This story should also be easy enough to explain that you do not have to waste too many words setting up the situation. A strong essay will discuss the actions you took and try to show how these actions required you to demonstrate bravery and leadership.

Equally as important as what you did is what you learned from this experience. Learnings should be specific. Ideally, you would also mention how you have carried these learnings forward to future endeavors. A strong answer here will not only demonstrate leadership experience but also highlight your strengths and specific skills.

Essay 2: Values are what guide you in your life and work. What values are important to you and how have they influenced you? (450 words)

This second Kellogg MBA essay is a challenging one as it forces candidates to reflect on what truly drives and motivates them. Authenticity will be key when developing your answer to this question.

Admissions committee members want passionate students and well-rounded classes. So do not simply tailor your answer to what you think admissions committee members want to hear (a common MBA application misconception). Instead, you should write about the values that you have repeatedly demonstrated throughout your life.

For each value selected, discuss WHY this value is important to you and show HOW you have integrated this value into your life. While I do not advise a laundry list, you should include more than one value in your response.

Candidates should also include some personal detail so that the reader can better understand how this value has influenced their actions, beliefs, and aspirations. It is particularly crucial that you have someone who knows you well read through this essay to ensure it is authentic. Of course, this is a good idea for all essay questions.

Essay 3 (MMM Applicants Only): The five core values of the MMM Program are Curiosity, Creativity, Empathy, Open-mindedness, and a Learning Mindset. Describe a situation in which you demonstrated one of these values. Why is this value an important part of the MMM experience for you? (250 words)

This third question should be answered only by applicants to Kellogg’s MMM program. For those unfamiliar with the MMM program, it is a dual degree program offering graduates both an MBA from Kellogg and an MS in Design Innovation from the Segal Design Institute at the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science.

For this essay, select just one value. The value you select is less important than the accompanying story. With only 250 words both to tell the story and tie it to Kellogg’s MMM program, pick a story that is easy to explain. Be sure you can show the reader how you lived this value, clearly explaining your actions. Finally, help the reader to understand why this value matters to you and how it will shape your MMM experience. This is a lot to cover so choose your words carefully.

Video Essay Questions:

“Show us the person behind all those carefully crafted words. The video will be comprised of three questions, each designed to help you showcase your personality and share some of the experiences that brought you here today.”

Finally, the Kellogg video essay questions remain from the previous year as well. This component of the application offers admissions committee members the chance to learn more about you on a personal level.

Once you submit your Kellogg application, you will be asked three questions, with 20 seconds to think about the question and up to one minute to answer:

One question will be an opportunity to introduce yourself to the Kellogg team.
The second question will ask about your plans for the future and how Kellogg will help you on that journey.
The third question will focus on a challenging moment in your life and what you learned from it. (Personal MBA Coach collects past questions to advise our clients on what they might expect).

Read our MBA application tips for handling videos and other application extras here.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Check out these blogs for additional MBA admissions consulting advice:

How to Get into Harvard Business School

How to Get into Wharton MBA

Getting into Columbia Business School

Some of the most frequent questions I get from applicants are: What does a successful candidate profile look like or how did X get accepted into so many schools?

Naturally, there are countless answers to these questions, but in response to applicant demand, I post Candidate Success Stories from time to time.

Below I have shared a deep dive into one recent success, including a Q&A with the candidate to shed some light on the process that I take with my clients, and share lessons this candidate has graciously offered to pass on.

Find out how this candidate was accepted to 5 top schools and secured $70K in scholarships.

Profile Overview

Schools Admitted To: Berkeley Haas (w/ Scholarship), UVA Darden, Michigan Ross (w/ Scholarship), USC Marshall, and Texas McCombs

Scholarship: $70K

Gender: Female

Years of Experience: 7

GRE: 315-320

Pre-MBA Experience: Non-profit education management

Education: Top 40 Private College

GPA: High 3’s

Candidate Q&A

Personal MBA Coach: Why did you decide to pursue an MBA?

Candidate: I decided to pursue my MBA because I wanted to further accelerate my career and career opportunities while making a greater impact in the industry that I have been in. I’ve worked on the management side of schools for the last 7 years and I have seen how technology can play a positive impact on learning. In order to pivot from the non-profit school side to the for-profit technology side of that relationship, I needed the skills learned in an MBA program. Further, I want to continue to develop my leadership skills and ability to lead people and an MBA program would help me get there.

Personal MBA Coach: How did you learn about Personal MBA Coach?

Candidate: I met Personal MBA Coach at the annual Forté conference. We learned through a number of interactions after the conference that we had a lot in common and similar working styles. Throughout this process, I wanted someone who I could get guidance and structure from that I knew would always be in my corner, and that was Personal MBA Coach and the team.

Personal MBA Coach: Why did you decide to turn to Personal MBA Coach for help?

Candidate: I decided to turn to Personal MBA Coach because I knew I needed support and structure in order to get through the MBA application process. From studying and taking the GRE, to writing essays, to coordinating recommendations, there is so much to do. Personal MBA Coach supported me by breaking down these tasks into manageable steps and suggesting what expectations I should have for myself in order to get there. It made a very daunting process much more doable.

Personal MBA Coach: What was the hardest part of the application process?

Candidate: Testing has never been a strength of mine, so that was far and away the hardest part. As noted above, Personal MBA Coach did a great job in laying out what needed to be done on my end in order to reach my goal. They also gave tips on how to study while also managing a full-time job.

In the end, through a significant amount of work on my end as well as sessions with Personal MBA Coach’s team, my score on the GRE increased about 12 points from my initial practice test. I’m so appreciative of the support I received on what was the most difficult part of the application process for me!

Personal MBA Coach: How did you decide which schools to apply to?

Candidate: For me, coming from a “non-traditional” background, I wanted to make sure I was in an environment where my experience was valued and I could continue to explore those interests. I also knew that I needed to have schools with different selectivity ranges as well as a limited number since admit rates are so low and there is not a “common application” for business school. I was pretty meticulous about this part of the process because I did not want to apply to a school “just because” as I knew schools were also looking at fit on their end. I whittled down my school list by attending many events for schools and conducting my own research. With that said, I had a pretty clear list going into writing my applications. However, Personal MBA Coach gave great suggestions on my list that I did not think of. In fact, one of the schools Personal MBA Coach suggested I add was one that I later got into and was considering in my final decision.

Personal MBA Coach: What was the biggest surprise for you throughout the application process?

Candidate: I am seeing this now as I am in pre-term at Berkeley Haas, but every step of the application process will actually help you as you start school. If you had a strong application and put in the work, you will have a clear direction of activities you would like to engage with at your school. You will have the opportunity to practice your interviewing skills, which is an art in itself. You even will use the math from the GRE and GMAT for your data and economics classes (seriously!). Though it is a massive undertaking, there are so many benefits of the process by how reflective it is and how it sets you up for success in the future.

Personal MBA Coach: How did Personal MBA Coach help you?

Candidate: Beyond the previously mentioned work around GRE studying, I think it was so helpful to have Personal MBA Coach’s support around my essays. Though I consider myself a solid writer, it was unbelievably helpful to have someone look at my writing objectively, as an admissions officer does not know me beyond what is written on my application. Even if I gave my essay for feedback to my family, they have subjective knowledge about a circumstance that they can easily fill in on their own. Having that extra set of eyes for clarity took my writing to the next level.

In addition, during the lead up to submitting my applications to graduate school, I went through a very challenging work situation and Personal MBA Coach’s team was unbelievably patient and supportive during that time.

Personal MBA Coach: Do you have any final pieces of advice for prospective candidates?

Candidate: I realize there is so much weight in business school media around having a great GMAT/GRE score, to a point where it can be unhealthy for many individuals. Others can get so focused on the test that they lose sight of the rest of their application or become timid to submit an application to their “dream school.” As someone who has been through the process and now attending my “dream school,” I know this: You are more than a number. Though it may sound trite when admissions officers say it, it really is a holistic process to evaluate an application. They are looking for a fit on so many levels. Focus on making sure that you present your best self in all facets of your profile. Though having solid test scores is important, the right school will see you for you.

Further, never let anyone tell you “no” or hold you back on where you apply if the school is a good fit for your goals. Personal MBA Coach never told me “no” and we had a very successful outcome at the end of the day. I am going where I wanted to go.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Take a look at these blog posts for MBA application assistance:

MBA Application Resume Tips

MBA Essay Writing

MBA Interview Preparation

Every year, we hear from well-intentioned MBA candidates hoping to submit their applications in time for round 1 deadlines that fell short of this objective. There are numerous reasons for candidates to forgo a round 1 application submission in favor of round 2. In fact, in some years we have more applicants during round 2 than round 1.

Many candidates will submit during the second round of MBA application deadlines to allow time to increase their GMAT/GRE/Executive Assessment scores. Other MBA hopefuls are hoping to finish up a key project at work or secure a promotion before submitting their MBA application essays. Some MBA applicants did not make a decision to apply to business school in time. These are all valid reasons to apply during round 2.

However, far too often, MBA hopefuls at top business schools simply fail to finish their MBA essays in time. Many procrastinate and do not start on time. Others put their essays on the back burner when work deadlines take priority. Finally, many candidates simply are afraid to pull the trigger. They do not know if and when their applications are complete.

Regardless of the driver of your delay, do not worry! Most applicants are just as successful (if not more so) during round 2. Personal MBA Coach is here to help construct your MBA application timeline. Just because you are planning to hit submit in January, does NOT mean it is a good idea to put your essays aside. Instead, it is time to develop a plan and kick it into high gear. We find the best applicants work now and do not rush anywhere near deadlines.

Round 2 deadlines are under four months away.

While many of our round 2 clients are well into the MBA application process, those who are just getting started can stay on track with our 4-month MBA application timeline. Following a structured plan will help save you from added stress in the future.

Need a more customized timeline? Personal MBA Coach has a strong track record of guiding clients through their individual circumstances.

Month 1 (September):

• Maximize your GMAT/GRE score.

The clock is ticking, so finalize those plans now to get where you want to be for your target schools. We offer customized tutoring to help you!

• Create your business school resume.

Did you know that your business school resume differs from your professional one? If not, now is the time to make the necessary customizations to be MBA ready. For more resume help, check out these tips!

Month 2 (October):

• Solidify your personal story.

Having trouble getting started on your MBA essays? Ask yourself: What is my story and how can I articulate my goals? A clear personal story and well-articulated career goals serve as a basis for a strong essay. Once you emphasize what makes you unique, you can construct a stronger narrative for why an MBA is essential for reaching career success.

• Finalize strong recommenders.

If you need help finding people that will best communicate your strengths, you can read our blog on selecting your MBA application recommenders.

• Draft your essays.

The sooner you start writing, the more you will be able to perfect your essays later! We always advise starting essays well ahead of deadlines and finishing at least a few weeks ahead to ensure that you stick to your MBA application timeline.

Month 3 (November):

• Edit your essays.

You will have to go through multiple drafts before you submit, so make sure you have enough time to focus on this step! If you are having trouble cutting excess words to meet a word count, take a look at our tips on writing more with fewer words.

• Schedule time to network.

Alumni and current students are great resources to learn more about the schools you are applying to. Talking with them will make it easier to craft targeted applications that stand out. While more information about a school is good, make sure to not go overboard with this!

Month 4 (December):

• Fill out your applications.

Do not overlook the short answer questions. These questions not only allow you to share additional aspects of your candidacy but are a test of consistency and cohesion. Be sure to allocate enough time to craft precise and focused answers that paint a clear image of who you are as a candidate.

• Check for errors.

If you have followed this MBA application timeline, you should not have to do any major work in the last weeks before submission. Having a second or third reader can be helpful in catching last-minute typos and other small mistakes that you may have missed.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

For more MBA application guidance, take a look at these blog posts:

How to Write a Business School Application Essay

MBA Application Assistance: Top Misconceptions

How to Answer MBA Essay Questions: MBA Goals

Back in March, Personal MBA Coach discussed a number of ways that COVID-19 would affect the MBA application process. Now more than six months later, the virus is still impacting MBA hopefuls. From canceled campus visits and remote interviews to online GMAT/GRE testing, coronavirus has reshaped the traditional MBA application process.

However, this is still a great time to apply for your MBA and business schools throughout the world have responded quickly, many extending MBA application deadlines and implementing hybrid learning plans. Some schools, including Harvard Business School, even offered all MBA candidates planning to attend this fall the option to defer for one or two years.

A new major modification we’ve seen in response to coronavirus is MIT Sloan School of Management’s decision to go test-optional.

Taking into account the complications that the pandemic has presented regarding testing, MIT Sloan has now announced the following:

“The GMAT and GRE are components of the application process and play an important role in our holistic evaluation process. However, in view of challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, we will allow candidates for the 2020-21 admission cycle to submit their application without the test and review their submitted material as is and without negative inferences. If admitted, candidates will not be required to take a test.

Additionally, applicants are welcome to submit other pieces of evidence, such as expired test scores (GMAT, GRE, EA, etc.); MITx MicroMasters, CORe, edX, MBAMath, or any other non-degree coursework completed; or certifications earned such as CPA, ACCA, CFA, etc; all of which may assist the Admissions Committee in its evaluation process.”

These changes recognize the difficulties that MBA hopefuls may have faced accessing viable testing options. From technical difficulties to household distractions, online testing can pose a handful of challenges. In other instances, test centers were operating at lower capacities, making it difficult to secure a spot for in-person testing.

MIT Sloan is the first M7 to go test-optional since Harvard Business School did so for a duration of 11 years, beginning in 1985.

While MIT Sloan’s announcement means that 2020-2021 applicants DO NOT have to submit a GMAT or GRE score as a part of their application, the school still encourages those who with test scores to share them (even if they are expired):

“If you have a valid or expired test score, please include that as part of your application. We will consider both expired and valid test scores for the 2020-21 admission cycle.”

MIT Sloan’s decision to go test-optional is a reflection of the many ways that MBA programs are working to make accommodations for current and prospective students.

However, despite this flexibility, in most cases, if you are in a position to take the GMAT or GRE, Personal MBA Coach recommends that you do! In most circumstances, submitting a test score will work in your favor. This is especially true if you have a lower GPA or weaker quantitative background. In such scenarios, a strong GMAT or GRE school will be crucial to prove you can handle the analytical rigor of the MIT Sloan MBA Program.

If, however, you have a strong academic record and/or quantitative background and taking the GMAT/GRE is not feasible, the test-optional policy is likely welcome news and something candidates could consider taking advantage of. With the round 1 MBA application deadline approaching quickly, MIT Sloan’s policy change should make it easier for some candidates to submit in time for the October 1 MBA Application Deadline.

If you DO want to submit a test score and are still looking to improve it, Personal MBA Coach offers customized tutoring to help you! Our tutors will set up a customized schedule, create a study plan, and schedule regular meetings to help you reach your goals.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Check out these blog posts for additional MBA application help:

How to Get into MIT Sloan

How to Write a Great MBA Essay

How to Maximize Your Chance for an MBA Scholarship

Hi,
I'm interested in doing an MBA. Kindly review my profile. Sharing a snapshot of the same below.

Bio: Indian, M, 24yo
Undergrad: Comp Sci from top 5 colleges in India(IIT)
Undergrad GPA: 5.6, It is on the lower side bur from a very prestigious college.
GRE: 329(Q166 V163)
Current Role: Project manager
Current Sector: Finance & Investments
Work experience: Worked in a MNC for 2 years where I worked abroad a project of 3 months duration. Got a promotion from a junior level to a Cloud lead. I worked with cross functional teams in India and US heavily- going to show teamwork and adaptability.
Post this, I Moved into an equity Research firm as a Project lead. Currently working as Project lead since 5 months. I currently lead multiple projects standing as a common ground between the investments team and the tech side.
Total work experience: 36 months by the time of Joining.
Short term goals: Move into an investment firm and work on Portfolio research in the equity markets(Sell side).
Long term goals: Move into a Private equity firm/Hedge fund in the buy side.

Extras:
Worked as a volunteer for differently abled
National level chess player
Lead departments in national level Fests.
Worked on an incognito startup(Failed)(Not sure if I should mention this)

Referees: Manager and colleague
Target Schools (R2): Any of the top 25 in US

Couple of questions:
1)Do you think I stand a better chance at top 15 colleges if I wait another year and then apply?
2)Do you think I should do a masters in the coming year and then later pursue a MBA?
3) Do ADCOM's consider an MBA post Masters positively?

Testing, testing, testing! For better or for worse, GMAT, GRE and Executive Assessment (EA) are key topics of conversation throughout the MBA application process.

Testing practices have changed drastically for 2020 MBA Applicants as online GMAT and GRE options emerged this spring. Recently, MIT Sloan introduced a test-optional policy, meaning that candidates for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle can now submit their applications without a test score.

One of the latest changes is the Graduate Management Admissions Council’s decision to allow candidates to take the online GMAT exam twice.

Starting in late September, online test-takers will have the ability to retake the online GMAT, an adaptation that reduces the restrictions of having to take the test at home.

Despite this effort to add flexibility to the online GMAT exam, the GMAC still urges candidates to take the test in person if possible:

“If test centers in candidates' locations are open and they feel safe accessing a test center facility, candidates are encouraged to do so. We are closely following local government directives to ensure the health and safety of our test-takers and test center staff. All our test centers that are currently open have enhanced safety, social distancing, and hygiene practices in place.”

Regardless of whether you are planning to take the test online or in person, you will want to make sure your study plans are in order. Whether you are just beginning and do not know where to start or you are weak in a few areas and looking to learn some new tricks, Personal MBA Coach offers customized tutoring services to help.

Our tutors will set up a schedule just for you, create a study plan, and schedule regular meetings to help you reach your goals. We conduct GMAT / GRE / Executive Assessment tutoring sessions remotely via Skype / Zoom, and we use whiteboard-sharing software so we can each draw on the screen. As with all of our services, satisfaction is guaranteed.

Your Personal MBA Coach tutor has one thing in mind: your success! The level of customization and support is unmatched and because our tutoring is boutique, just like our admissions consulting, tutors work with only a limited number of students each year. Personal MBA Coach tutors have scored in the 99th percentile on the GMAT and GRE and are graduates of MIT, Harvard, and UPenn.

Candidates often ask Personal MBA Coach what score is needed for success. While naturally this varies from school to school, it is becoming less common to see students earn admission to the top 10-20 schools with a GMAT score below 700. For the Wharton class of 2022, the average GMAT was 722 (the average GRE was 161V/161Q). For Columbia Business School, the class of 2022 average was 726. Harvard Business School reported a median GMAT score of 730 and a median GRE score of 163V/163Q for the class of 2022. We do expect scores to rise this season due to the increased competition. The GMAT / GRE scores from last application season were a bit lower as schools tried to fill vacant seats caused by COVID and visa restrictions.

Have other questions about the GMAT/GRE/EA exams? Check out this blog: Your GMAT, GRE & Executive Assessment FAQs.

Are you looking for help with your MBA Applications? Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide. Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

Take a look at these blogs for additional MBA admissions consulting advice:

GMAT / GRE Preparation Tips

How to Ensure Your MBA Letters of Recommendation Shine

MBA Application Extras: Short Answer Questions, Optional Essays and Videos

There has never been a better time to apply to Business School!

Of course, it is no secret that the coronavirus has impacted the job market. Earlier this year, a Poets&Quants study found that 44% of MBA students graduating in 2020 had their start dates pushed back, some of these delays lasting several months.

However, the future for MBA graduates remains bright. Though work life has taken on a new form of normal, the Graduate Management Admission Council’s latest Corporate Recruiter’s Survey suggests that the demand for business school graduates is still high.

This year, GMAC collected a second round of data after the pandemic’s disruption to their earlier reports. After a brief dip, interest in hiring MBAs is already on the rise again.

Prior to COVID-19, 92% of firms indicated an intent to hire 2020 MBA graduates. While this percentage dropped to 77% in June and July, GMAC now reports that 89% of corporate recruiters plan to hire MBA graduates in the new year.

As GMAC’s research below shows, the survey projects that the percentage of recruiters looking to hire will continue to increase, reaching levels similar to pre-COVID-19.

Additionally, projected hiring in 2021 is higher than the 86% of companies that hired MBA graduates in 2019, another promising sign for MBAs.



The GMAC’s insights on MBA salary trends are also favorable. Not only are the large majority of recruiters not reducing salaries, the median base salary for the class of 2020 is projected to remain over $100,000.

The hiring of international students and interns is promising as well, particularly with the increase of remote virtual opportunities.

As the demand for business school graduates prevails, now is an excellent time to pursue your MBA. With trends already on the upturn for 2021, expectations are that the class of 2023 will graduate into an economy with plenty of job opportunities.

While the recent increase in overall unemployment levels prompted many professionals to take the plunge and apply for their MBA this fall, we know many potential applicants also put their MBA plans on hold. Unsurprisingly, the market uncertainty led many, particularly international applicants, to worry about both the logistics and the benefits of an MBA. However, given the quicker-than-expected economic rebound, now may be an ideal time to submit your MBA applications.

Round 2 is a great time to apply (for some schools, success rates are even stronger during round 2 than during round 1), and with three months until the first round 2 deadlines, the time to get started with your applications is now!

Unsure where to start? Check out this blog: Kicking Off Round 2 covering the five steps you should be taking even before beginning your MBA application essays. As you read these tips, keep in mind that while campus visits are not an option this season, there are countless virtual options available to help you narrow down your target schools.

Whether you are beginning to consider applying for your MBA or are already into the process, Personal MBA Coach is here to help!

From developing an individualized MBA application timeline to editing your essays, to boosting your test scores through our customized tutoring services, Personal MBA Coach is willing to be your guide.

Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been guiding candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

For more MBA updates and advice, check out the following blogs:

COVID-19 GMAT/GRE/EA Testing Update

The MIT Sloan MBA Program: Now Test-Optional

5 Common MBA Application Misconceptions

Are you looking to accelerate your career growth but continue working full time? Do you have strong leadership experience and want to magnify your impact and hone your business skills?

If so, an Executive MBA (EMBA) may be the right choice to help you get ahead professionally. Whether you want to advance in your current industry, shift roles, or build a business from the ground up, an EMBA will supply you with the tools to do so.

Since EMBAs are designed for working professionals, they typically offer flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles. Nevertheless, pursuing an executive education is still a large commitment that should be given considerable thought.

While EMBA programs vary in length and required time on campus, students can easily spend 20 to 30 hours a week on assignments and projects. That said, many EMBA students in demanding professions are still able to integrate their studies into their current lives.

Top EMBA programs also vary significantly regarding pre-MBA experience requirements. For instance, Personal MBA Coach has helped applicants with four to six years of experience get into the Wharton and Columbia Business School EMBA programs. On the other hand, all of our successful MIT Sloan applicants have met the program’s minimum requirement: ten-years of experience.

Admissions requirements for EMBA programs differ in terms of testing as well. Chicago Booth’s MBA program, ranked number one in U.S. News & World Report’s 2020 Best Executive MBA Programs, requires applicants to take the EA, GMAT, or GRE. In contrast, Kellogg’s EMBA program, securing the second-place position in U.S. News & World Report’s rankings, does not require the GMAT or EA for most applicants (the GMAT is required only if applicants do not have a bachelor’s degree).

Want to learn more about top EMBA programs and which one might be right for you? Take a look at Personal MBA Coach’s latest e-book, 2020-2021 EMBA Programs: Deadlines, Details & Requirements, and let us help you gain admission at your dream school!

Whether an MBA, EMBA, part-time MBA, or graduate program seems like the best fit for you, Personal MBA Coach is here to guide you through the process.

Founded by a Wharton and MIT graduate, we regularly help applicants navigate their applications each year. We also conduct mock interviews with former M7 interviewers on our team.

Personal MBA Coach has been helping candidates through all aspects of the MBA application process for 13 years with a 96% success rate. Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

You may also be interested in the following blogs:

The MBA Job Market Bounces Back

Interview with Personal MBA Coach Founder, Scott Edinburgh

Harvard Business School, Wharton, Chicago Booth & Yale SOM Admit With $244K Scholarship

Are you looking for an MBA program with a small class size and close-knit community? If so, Berkeley Haas may be a great choice for you.

With around 300 students enrolled in each entering class, Berkeley Haas is one of the smallest top full-time MBA programs.

This past application cycle, Berkeley Haas admitted applicants with an average GMAT score of 727 and an average undergrad GPA of 3.65. The class of 2022 has an average of 5.3 years of pre-MBA work experience. Records also note that 39% of students are female and 21% of students have international citizenship.

In a statement introducing the 2020-2021 Full-Time MBA application essays, Berkeley Haas shared the following:

Our distinctive culture is defined by four key principles — Question the Status Quo, Confidence Without Attitude, Students Always, and Beyond Yourself. We encourage you to reflect on your experiences, values, and passions so that you may craft thoughtful and authentic responses that demonstrate your fit with our program — culturally, academically, and professionally.

Below, please find this year’s 2020-2021 application deadlines along with Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to tackle the Berkeley Haas MBA application essays.

Berkeley Haas Upcoming MBA Application Deadlines:

Round 2: January 14, 2021

Round 3: April 5, 2021

Berkeley Haas 2020-2021 MBA Application Essays:

Essay 1: What makes you feel alive when you are doing it, and why? (300 words maximum)

Essay 2: The definition of successful leadership has evolved over the last decade and will continue to change. What do you need to develop to become a successful leader? (300 words maximum)

Short Answer: Briefly describe your immediate post-MBA career goals (150 words maximum)

Personal MBA Coach’s Tips:

Along with the following Berkeley Haas advice, Personal MBA Coach suggests looking at our top tips on writing winning MBA application essays. Below, we have broken down Haas’s essay questions.

Essay 1: What makes you feel alive when you are doing it, and why? (300 words maximum)

With this short essay, get right to the point. While this story can be personal or professional, most candidates will be best served with a personal story. This is a chance to talk about your true passions and what really drives you. For some applicants, this may be their job but tread cautiously here.

Be sure to include both the “what” and the “why” here. While this is not the time to brag about accomplishments, an ideal answer will be something that you have done to set yourself apart. Extracurricular work also could fit well but be sure it is an area where you have emerged as a leader and/or have added substantial value. Be succinct and speak from the heart.

Essay 2: The definition of successful leadership has evolved over the last decade and will continue to change. What do you need to develop to become a successful leader? (300 words maximum)

Berkeley Haas has altered their second essay question this year but continues to press candidates to define successful leadership. Here, candidates should discuss the qualities they believe that successful leaders embody. Be specific and think about how this definition of leadership continues to change over time.

Next, think about how you personally have begun to demonstrate these characteristics. Personal MBA Coach recommends including a few short examples.

Finally, think about how you will grow as a leader at Berkeley Haas. Discuss, in detail, what classes, clubs, or programs will help you achieve your leadership objectives.

As Personal MBA Coach generally advises, you should not include a laundry list of items. Instead, focus on a few specific areas of interest, telling the reader what you will gain from each of these experiences and how you will contribute. You want to leave the reader with a vision of how your leadership style will have evolved by the time you leave campus.

Short Answer: Briefly describe your immediate post-MBA career goals (150 words maximum)

This short answer question can be found under the Personal Data section of the application. Though 150 is the maximum number of words you can write, 50-100 words may be enough here. For more information on how to approach short answer questions, take a look at our blog on application extras here.

Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach is consistently ranked #1 or #2 by leading ranking sources. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and interview preparation.

Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned over $5.5M in scholarships! Call us today at +1 617-645-2424 or email scott@personalmbacoach.com for a free consultation on your profile along with how we can help make your MBA dreams a reality!

For more MBA application advice and updates, check out the following blogs:

Berkeley Haas, UVA Darden, Michigan Ross, USC Marshall & Texas McCombs Admit with $70K Scholarship

Columbia Business School 2020-2021 Essay Analysis

Yale School of Management 2020-2021 Essay Analysis