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With the increasing global demand for skilled business professionals, an MBA has become a highly desirable qualification to have on your resume. But before diving into the application process, it is crucial to understand the prerequisites of most MBA programs.
In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about entry requirements for this type of graduate degree - from academic qualifications and language proficiency tests to work experience and recommendations.
Table of Contents
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
For international students: proof of English proficiency
Additional requirements for international students
What are the requirements for online MBA programs?
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
MBA programs typically require applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, with rare exceptions made for individuals with exceptional work experience. It is crucial to note that the undergraduate degree need not be in a business-related field; it can be in any discipline. That said, some MBA programs may show a preference for candidates holding degrees in areas related to business, like business administration, finance, accounting, or economics, as they align closely with the core curriculum of the MBA program.
While each MBA program has its own GPA requirements, most programs prefer applicants with a strong academic track record. The highest-ranked MBA programs (such as MIT, Stanford and Columbia) generally require a 3.6-4.0 undergraduate GPA. However, a GPA in the 3.5-3.6 range can still get you into a top 20 program.
If your GPA is lower than this, there are still ways you can potentially offset it and demonstrate your academic abilities to admissions officers, including:
- Achieving a high GMAT score: a strong GMAT or GRE test score can show admissions comittees that you have the analytical and quantitative skills vital for an MBA program.
- Writing a compelling personal statement and MBA essays; they can be a great forum to address any extenuating circumstances that may have impacted your GPA and show your motivation for the MBA program.
- Taking extra business-related courses to display academic capabilities, especially if the low GPA was from non-business courses.
- Enrolling in a pre-MBA program to prepare for the rigor of an MBA program and exhibit readiness for the course.
Relevant work experience
An MBA degree offers promising career prospects, making prior exposure to the corporate world advisable before embarking on your MBA journey. This previous work experience can also enhance your performance in MBA classes.
As professional graduate program, candidates typically have 2 to 5 years of experience. By completing an MBA, some are seeking to enhance their skills for career advancement, while others might be using it as a way to switch their role or sector.
GMAT or GRE scores
Scores from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) are required by most MBA programs to evaluate your analytical, quantitative, and verbal skills.
GMAT or GRE for MBA admissions?
Both the GMAT and GRE are accepted by many MBA programs, but the choice between them depends on various factors. Traditionally, the GMAT has been more common for MBA programs due to its focus on business-related skills. However, many programs now accept the GRE as well.
Consider program requirements, test format (adaptive for GMAT, not for GRE), test content (business skills for GMAT, broader skills for GRE), and test preparation when choosing between GMAT and GRE for MBA applications.
Letters of recommendation
As part of the admissions process, MBA program applicants usually need two to three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with their academic or professional abilities and character. For example, this might mean asking a college professor and current employer to write letters of recommendation.
It's advisable to provide your recommenders with relevant details of the program, its desired qualities in students, and why you believe the MBA aligns with your goals. Additionally, share your resume, application essays, and allow a minimum of three weeks for them to write the letter.
Resume (CV)
For a successful MBA application, updating your resume (CV) is crucial. Tailor it to match the values and culture of your target school. You should also:
- keep it formal as admission officers will review it
- address any gaps in your education or work experience
- highlight qualities like leadership and teamwork
- keep it concise (ideally one page).
Personal statement and essays
As part of the application process, MBA programs typically require a personal statement (also known as a statement of purpose) showcasing personality, goals, and aspirations. You should tailor the statement to your intended program, emphasizing your professional strengths and achievements.
Some programs also request supplemental essays on specific topics like career goals or contributions to the school culture.
Key tips for MBA application essays include:
- Be authentic: share genuine experiences, values, and goals
- Show, don't tell: use examples and anecdotes to illustrate accomplishments - this will help bring your essays to life and make them more memorable to admissions officers.
- Focus on the future: discuss clear career aspirations and how an MBA fits in.
- Edit and proofread: check for errors and ensure a smooth flow.
- Get feedback: seek advice from trusted individuals for improvements.
For international students: proof of English proficiency
Proof of English proficiency is crucial when applying to universities abroad. Non-native speakers of English typically need to take one of the following tests for MBA programs:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE)
Find out more about exam preparation programs with Kings
Additional requirements for international students
Alongside proof of English proficiency, there may also be other requirements for international students applying to MBA degree programs:
- A student visa: international applicants must obtain a student visa to study in the United States or another country. The process for obtaining a visa can be time-consuming, so it's important to start the process as early as possible.
- Educational equivalency (evaluating academic credentials): international students may need to have their academic credentials evaluated and certified by a recognized credential evaluation service to demonstrate equivalence with US degrees.
- Financial documentation: international students may also need to provide documentation of their ability to pay for their MBA program, including tuition, fees, and living expenses. This may include bank statements and letters of support from sponsors or family members.
What are the requirements for online MBA programs?
As MBAs are now available in all shapes and sizes, you need to consider what format you’d prefer to choose: a full-time MBA, part-time MBA, executive MBA, or online MBA. The good news is that MBA prerequisites are more or less the same for each of these options.
Online MBA programs are increasingly popular, and offered by top-ranked business schools alongside on-campus programs.
Online MBA programs offer more flexibility than traditional, in-person MBA programs, allowing you to complete coursework and assignments on your own schedules, and can also be substantially less expensive than on campus programs.
One potential disadvantage of online MBA programs is that they may offer fewer networking opportunities than on-campus programs. However, many online MBA programs now offer virtual networking events and other opportunities for students to connect with each other and alumni.
Learn more about applying to an MBA program
We hope that this article has clarified what is required as part of the admissions process for MBA programs in the USA.
At Kings, we offer access to a range of graduate degrees in the USA, including an MBA program at respected Fisher College in the heart of Boston. Voted the Best Value MBA program in Boston, and with a fast-track (10 month) option, it also allows students to apply without the need for either a GMAT score or prior work experience.
Upon completion, graduates also have the opportunity to work ((OPT) after 10 months of MBA.
Students have the following additional benefits:
- Small class size (10-15 students)
- Personalized support from professors
- Kings support team on site
- Career Services Center to support students find jobs and to help with the OPT process
Graduates of the program have gone to work for companies such as PriceWaterHouse Coopers (PwC), Yahoo, Raytheon, and various local banks.
Visit our blog, Kings Life, for more articles related to Business degree programs and university study in the US, including:
- Best Business Schools in the US
- USA Application Process for International Students
- 7 Best Business Schools in Boston: Programs & Rankings (2024)
- 7 Best Business Schools in New York in 2024
- The 12 best master of accounting programs in the USA
If you would like receive more detailed information about the Kings and our programmes, please get in touch with us at us.admissions@kingseducation.com.
