Even when it comes to MBA admission requirements, you have options!
The criteria required for you to "get accepted" largely depends on the business school and type of program.
Admissions procedures differ somewhat and not all programs require the same criteria.
It is always best to get your specific information from the business school itself. Usually the school's website will give you ample information.
However, if you need more information about MBA admission requirements, you can contact the school. There are people you can call or e-mail that will answer your questions.
Pre-MBA Considerations:
There are a few MBA admission requirements to consider before considering any MBA program. The following items are usually required before you can even apply. Make sure you research the specifics for each program you plan to apply to!
- Bachelor's Degree:
Because the MBA is a master's level degree, you are required to have a bachelor's degree (from an accredited school) before you enter the program. International students will need an "equivalent" degree from an "approved" school. Some MBA programs require specific undergraduate grade-point average (GPA) levels also.
- Work Experience:
Many MBA programs recommend or even require you to have a certain number of years of full-time work experience. Originally, the standard was two years for full-time programs and much more for executive programs. Now, each school and program have different requirements. Even when work experience is not explicitly defined, you may be competing with applicants based on this requirement.
- Admissions Test:
An admissions test may be required to be admitted to a program. The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is by far the most common. Occasionally you might be allowed to use previous Graduate Records Examination (GRE) test results. Additionally, non-English speaking applicants may have to show English proficiency by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
A Note on Prerequisites...Prerequisites can be part of the MBA admission requirements. Some programs require you to have a certain "body of knowledge" in business subjects before you can start. If prerequisites exist, a bachelor's degree (or other previous coursework) in business will usually fulfill the requirements. However, the school should specify the way (or ways) to satisfy prerequisites.
Application Package:
Assuming you have met the pre-MBA qualifications, you will have to apply to the MBA program. Some or all of the items below will be needed to create a sort of application package. It is like putting the "pieces of the puzzle" together so you can verify that you meet the MBA admission requirements.
It is very important to follow the instructions put forth by the school as to what is needed, how it is to be sent in, and when it is due.
| Application - An application with a non-refundable fee for each application submitted. Many applications forms are now online. |
| Official Transcripts - A prescribed number of copies of transcripts from each college attended. This will be used to verify previous academic achievements. |
| Work Resume - A work-related resume similar to what you would use to apply for a job. This will verify work experience requirements if applicable. |
| Admissions Test Score - A score from the admissions test(s) taken. Scores must be sent in a prescribed way to each school applied to. Test scores are usually good for 5 years. |
| Letters of Recommendation - Two or three letters of recommendation sent by prescribed individuals. These usually come from people like previous professors, employers, and other associates. |
| Application Essays - One or more essays that give you an opportunity to portray yourself and express your goals. |
A Note on Application Deadlines...As you look into MBA programs, you will need to pay attention to deadlines and program start dates. MBA progams differ as to when they permit you to start. Some programs allow entrance once a year while others allow flexible start dates. To make things more complicated, some programs have multiple deadlines to apply for the same start date. The bottom line is this...know your deadlines and start early to prepare.
If you are gunning for a Top MBA School, you will need to look at more specific considerations for those types of MBA programs.
While looking at the MBA admission requirements, it is a good idea to also start looking at your financial aid options. Many times, however, you may need to be accepted into the program before you can be approved for financial aid.
See Also: MBA Entrance Exam, MBA Admissions Statistics, No Work Experience MBA
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