How to Write an MBA Application Essay

One of the most important aspects of your application to an MBA course will be the application essay, and with this article, we hope to make these potentially tricky bits of writing much easier to understand. The application essay will be one of your first opportunities to truly show the faculty at the university your grasp of business concepts, enthusiasm for the field, and innovations you can bring to the department. As such, it is vital that you comprehend the task that is set for you, and complete it to the best of your abilities. Read on to find out how you can go about doing this... 

What is an MBA Application Essay?

Anyone who applies for an MBA course is usually expected to write at least one application essay. Be prepared though, as sometimes there will be more than one essay question, for instance the London Business Schools have had three essay questions in previous years, such as...

• What are your post-MBA plans and how will your past experience and the London Business School programme contribute?
   
• What specific areas of London Business School life are you most excited about getting involved in and where will you add value?
   
• Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School?

The essay may sound like a nightmare, but it actually provides you with a great opportunity to show the admissions committee who you are and why you should be on their course.

Why is Writing a Good MBA Application Essay Important?

Short of interviewing everyone applying for a place, there is no other way for an admissions committee to really get to know each applicant. The essay questions are designed to elicit a real feel of your thoughts about yourself, the course and your future.

So it’s vital to produce a high quality and thoughtful essay, as it’s the only chance you’re going to get to show the committee how important the course is to you, as well as how integral it is to your future plans.

Tips to Remember When Writing an MBA Application Essay

Every application essay is going to be different, but here are some tips that apply to every essay though...

• Word limits should never be exceeded. Go over and it’ll look like you haven’t read or couldn’t be bothered to follow the instructions.
   
• The question should always be answered. Resist temptation to go off track and try and stay on topic.
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• The tone should be professional. No lols, omgs or generally overly friendly words.
   
• Always proof read, proof read again and then ask friends and family to proof read again for you. Just in case. 

Read Example MBA Application Essays

It’s always good to look at some examples of successful essays that landed that particular student a place on the course for inspiration and motivation (after all, if they did it, so can you). You should be able to find some using any of the usual popular internet search engines. Reading through these essays should give you a good idea of the standard that business schools are looking for as well as showing you how to create an effective essay to accompany your application. 

Next: Read more about How To Write an MBA Personal Statement