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StrategiForZen
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Joined: 13 Jun 2025
Last visit: 31 Aug 2025
Posts: 32
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Given Kudos: 3
Location: India
Schools: Ross '25 (A$$) ISB '25 (A$$$)
GRE 1: Q168 V162
Schools: Ross '25 (A$$) ISB '25 (A$$$)
GRE 1: Q168 V162
Posts: 32
Kudos: 19
 [1]
Don't Make These Mistakes When You Write Your MBA Application Essays 22 Jul 2025, 00:23
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After reading many MBA application essays, some strong, some not, I have noticed a few common mistakes that applicants make:

1) Not addressing the prompt: This is surprisingly common. For example, when the prompt asks about strengths and weaknesses, some people do not even mention a weakness.
Or if the essay asks how you plan to use the MBA to fulfil your professional goals, many applicants just mention a list of resources (courses, clubs, electives) without explaining why those matter to them or what they will gain from them. In my own essay, I did not just mention “action-based learning” or “experiential learning program (ELP)” because they seemed like the right words to include. I explained how this type of coursework had helped me previously during my master’s and how a similar format in the MBA program could help me build the skills needed to make a meaningful pivot. This kind of clarity makes a difference to the essay.

2) Obvious and bland answers: People often mention generic strengths, weaknesses, contributions, or experiences. These do not help you stand out. It is important to be authentic and personalised. Don't follow templates rather brainstorm.

3) Repeating the resume: People mention things that adcom can easily make out from their resume. There is no point in doing this. Talk about stories, experiences, etc., that will add value and tell people more about your personality.

4) Wasting space on long introductions or conclusions: Space is limited. I have seen people spend word count on unnecessary long introductions or conclusions that add no real value to the essay. Use the space wisely.

Regards,
StrategiForZen
Happy to help!