MBA Admissions for married couples

So the quick answer is it depends on the school as this experience represents a small percentage of total applications. But the best way to think about this is that you both will need to be qualified to gain admissions. Schools will not accept unqualified applicants. If I had to give a general answer I would say it is probably neutral to it can be a benefit. Here are some tips for applying to business school as a couple.

Understand the Process:
The application process for couples can vary from school to school. For some programs you can identify yourself as a couple for others your status will be a bit fuzzier, so make sure you are clear on the process to best position your joint applications for success.

Communicate your Situation:
It is difficult for the AdComm to take your situation into consideration if they are unaware a situation exists. So make sure to communicate your joint status early and often. It is even more important for couples to attend admissions road shows, information sessions, and of course campus visits. These present great opportunities to connect with admissions and show them directly why you and your partner would be a great fit for the school. Be prepared to state your value overtly as this could aid your candidacy come decision day. The AdComm is made of human beings, so they will employ compassion and not aim not to break up families/married couples if both applicants represent a fit with the program.

Select Schools Strategically:
One of the hardest parts of applying jointly is identifying programs that make sense for BOTH applicants. Outside of applying to the same schools, there are a few ways to expand your options as a couple. Thinking in terms of cities can help you both - Chicago (Kellogg/Booth), Boston (HBS/MIT), NY (Columbia/Stern/Wharton), Bay Area (Stanford/Berkeley) so figure out what makes the most sense for you both and consider an application strategy the provides maximum flexibility. Thinking in terms of cities can help you consider applying in R2 to a school that will allow you to at least still be in the same city as your partner.

Be Realistic:
Applying as an individual takes a lot of self-awareness, but when applying as a couple this needs to be even more heightened. Few couples are complete equals when it comes to the admissions process, which can bring about some uncomfortable conversations and difficult decisions. So think long and hard about the permutations and combinations of your applicant strategy if one or both of you gets accepted in each scenario. Remember admissions decisions are individual – you will each stand on your own merits, so the strength of one candidate will not override an unqualified partner.