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Nov 2007:30 AM PST
-08:30 AM PST
Learn what truly sets the UC Riverside MBA apart and how it helps in your professional growth
Nov 2010:00 AM EST
-10:30 AM EST
If you’re applying to Columbia, NYU Stern, or Yale SOM, you need more than strong stats. Each school defines “leadership” differently, and your essays must reflect that. Join Sia Admissions founder, Susan Berishaj on November 20th
Nov 2009:00 PM IST
-10:00 PM IST
Join our free expert-led Essay Workshops to discover how to choose impactful stories, highlight your core values, and align your background with each school’s distinct culture, making every word truly count.
Nov 2108:30 AM EST
-09:15 AM EST
Get the inside scoop on what makes Emory’s Goizueta Business School great, learn how you can present a strong MBA application, and connect with an Admissions Director to get your questions answered.
Nov 2112:00 PM EST
-12:30 PM EST
Join Assistant Dean for Admissions Laurel Grodman for a live walkthrough of the 2025–2026 MBA application. Laurel will provide insights into what the Admissions Committee looks for and offer tips on key components of the application.
Nov 2109:30 PM IST
-10:30 PM IST
Learn how to craft powerful, authentic essays by mastering the 3 “WHYs” every top MBA program looks for: Why MBA, Why Now, and Why This School.
Nov 2408:00 PM PST
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Inquire for a free profile evaluation and guarantee statement for possible admits and scholarships!
vamkrispk
Joined: 14 Nov 2013
Last visit: 11 Nov 2025
Posts: 271
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 168
Location: India
Concentration: Finance, Sustainability
Schools: Kellog '27 (D) MIT '27 (D) Tuck '27 (D)
GRE 1: Q158 V155
GRE 2: Q163 V159
GRE 3: Q163 V159
GPA: 7.32
WE:Corporate Finance (Finance: Diversified Financial Services)
Products:
Schools: Kellog '27 (D) MIT '27 (D) Tuck '27 (D)
GRE 1: Q158 V155
GRE 2: Q163 V159
GRE 3: Q163 V159
Posts: 271
Kudos:
56
14 Dec 2023, 10:29
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Hi,
Do we have to stick to the 500 word limit. My final essay is 517 words.
is that okay or should i trim it down ?
Do we have to stick to the 500 word limit. My final essay is 517 words.
is that okay or should i trim it down ?
14 Dec 2023, 23:40
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vamkrispk
Hello vamkrispk,
Thanks for writing in.
You must always stick to the word limit.
In the case of 500 words, your essay should, ideally, be more than 490 words and 500 or less than 500.
All the best!
15 Dec 2023, 02:54
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vamkrispk
Hi vamkrispk
When it comes to putting your MBA application together, the essay is one of the most crucial elements. It serves as a way to tie together all your experiences, show the admissions committee who you are beyond your test scores and demonstrate how you are a good fit for their programme.
Applicants to Columbia Business School (CBS) must complete one short answer question and three essays. The essays aim at eliciting information about your past and your envisioned professional life, how the CBS MBA fits into your journey, key personal stories, values that matter to you, and your leadership style. Optimise valuable real estate to paint a coherent, distinctive, and persuasive narrative of your experiences.
While the given word limit is 500 words, focus on brevity and don’t treat this essay as an opportunity to impress the admissions committee.
Remember, YOU are the hero of this essay and not the book/movie/song. So, state your favourite subject directly and then explain how you associate with it by emphasising your life experiences.
Do connect with us to for a Free consultation with our MBA experts in order to ensure you are on the right part for your admit to Columbia Buisness School. Alternatively, you can connect with us at +91 9829491179
Feel free to read our blog on Your Ultimate Guide to the Columbia Business School (CBS) MBA Essays
