MBA programs enable you to acquire essential knowledge and develop key skills that contribute to success in business. The first step in pursuing the degree is completing the application process. That typically means gathering key documents, filling out forms and writing a personal statement.
How you complete your MBA application matters. Preparing for the process and putting together a well-organized application package can help you make a strong impression on universities, setting you apart from other candidates. Staying mindful of what materials to include and what deadlines to remember will ensure a successful application. This guide will help you prepare for the application process, while also explaining why you should consider applying for Northern Kentucky University’s online Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.
Understanding the MBA Application Process
Completing the application process is the first step toward reaping the personal benefits of earning an MBA. Typically, this involves meeting several application requirements. Although the specific actions you will need to take vary by program, there are similarities between many universities regarding the basic application process, evaluation criteria and timelines.
General Steps in the Application Process
As a prospective MBA student, you will complete a series of steps to apply to programs of your choice. Generally, the MBA application process involves:
- Research MBA programs: Explore the websites of universities that offer MBA programs of interest to you. Consider what areas of specialization are available, what classes you can expect to take, whether the program has accreditation through the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and tuition and financial aid options.
- Gather supporting documents: Check the MBA program website to determine what documents you need to include at the time of application.
- Fill out the application: Most schools will allow you to apply for MBA programs online. Fill out all mandatory fields and double-check all entries before hitting submit. You may also need to upload supportive documents.
- Request necessary documents: Arrange to have any outstanding documents, such as official transcripts, sent to the school. The application page will usually give you a mailing address.
- Check your application status: Most universities allow you to log in and track the status of your application as it goes through the review process.
- Wait for a decision: You will usually receive an email with the school’s final decision within a few weeks to a couple of months of submitting all the application materials.
Managing deadlines is vital during the MBA application process. Although you can usually complete the actual application in less than an hour, you will need enough time to gather or produce any supporting documents that schools require. This may mean crafting a professional resume, writing an in-depth personal profile or taking a standardized test. Getting started three to six months before the application deadline will enable you to take your time and complete each step to the best of your abilities.
How Schools Evaluate Applicants
Schools offering MBA programs establish their own evaluation criteria for applicants. As a result, their considerations and the weight they place on the different parts of an application package will vary.
Most schools consider a combination of academic and non-academic factors. You can expect a school to evaluate your GPA and to review what classes you took while earning your undergraduate degree. Online MBA programs often consider work experience as well. In addition, schools will carefully examine all other required supportive documents, such as test scores or personal essays.
Common MBA Application Requirements
Schools offering MBA degrees will have a list of eligibility requirements that you’ll need to meet before applying. In addition, you will likely be asked to submit documents for schools to review. Common MBA application eligibility and document requirements include:
- Bachelor’s degree: A bachelor’s degree from an institution that carries accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) or from another well-known body is usually mandatory for admission. Most schools will consider bachelor’s recipients with any major, but some may prioritize those who completed a business program.
- Official transcript: Schools will likely request official transcripts for all colleges and universities where you completed undergraduate coursework. The documents will typically need to display your cumulative GPA.
- Resume: You will often need to submit an up-to-date professional resume so that schools can assess your work and leadership experience.
- Writing sample: Some schools will ask you to submit a statement of purpose that explains your future goals and how earning an MBA will help you achieve them. Others may ask for a personal essay on a specific theme.
- Letters of recommendation: Some schools will ask you to provide one or more letters of recommendation from academic or professional contacts, such as former professors or your current work supervisor.
Remember that each school will have its own specific set of required documents. Some may also require you to take a standardized test or participate in an interview. Confirm application requirements before proceeding to avoid neglecting a key step.
Creating a Strong Resume for Your MBA Application
Before applying for MBA programs, take the time to update your resume. Tailor the document to reflect your readiness for graduate business study to give evaluators the information they need to decide on your acceptance. Begin by updating the education section as required. List any key business classes that you completed, along with your other academic information.
In the work experience section, highlight leadership experience. Mention measurable accomplishments, particularly those that demonstrate professional growth. For example, you might say, “Increased percentage of sales closed by at least 5% annually over five years.”
After completing the work experience section, think about other areas of your life where you held leadership positions, such as sports, extracurricular activities or volunteer work. Add a section titled “Other leadership experience” to showcase these experiences. Be sure to provide a short explanation of your duties and accomplishments for each position that you name.
Writing a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your opportunity to speak directly to evaluators and explain why you’re a good fit for their schools’ MBA programs. The essay should clearly convey the motivation for pursuing an MBA. Describe what your career goals are. Then, connect them to the program. Reference specific classes and academic opportunities that align with your ambitions.
Tell evaluators why their school is the right choice for you. Familiarize yourself with the university’s mission and values. Speak to them in the text, providing examples of why they are significant and relevant to you.
How you write your personal statement is as important as what you say. Use a professional tone similar to what you would in the workplace. Keep sentences concise and adopt a logical format that readers can easily follow. Proofread carefully and consider having at least one other person review it before you submit the final copy.
MBA Application Deadlines and Timing
Specific deadlines for MBA applications are unique to each school. However, most institutions will establish a May or June deadline for the fall semester and a November or December deadline for the spring semester. Review the admission information for each school on your submission list to learn when you should apply for your preferred start dates. Keep the deadline for submitting your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form in mind as well.
As previously mentioned, beginning the application process a few months before the deadline is encouraged. Giving yourself as much time as possible will give you time to prepare an application package that provides an accurate representation of your strengths and skills.
Applying early may also improve your chances of admission, as some schools evaluate applications on a first-come, first-served basis. There may be financial benefits as well. Some schools will set earlier deadlines for scholarships and other financial aid programs.
When you begin working on your application, set a personal deadline for submitting it. Then, create a timeline, choosing completion dates for each part of the application process. Establishing an organized task list will help you stay on track and ensure your application and supporting documents are submitted on time.
Why Choose NKU for Your MBA
NKU offers an MBA program designed to fit your life. It allows you to earn your degree through 100 percent online study, providing the flexibility that working professionals need to advance their education. Essential courses emphasize leadership, communication and strategic management to prepare you for success in several focus areas.
NKU’s Haile College of Business carries full accreditation from the AACSB. The school has a streamlined admission process to suit your needs. Plus, a dedicated support team is available to answer your questions as needed.
Start the MBA Application Process Today
Pursuing your MBA can broaden your career possibilities, boost your confidence and provide a sense of personal satisfaction. Skills and knowledge gained through an MBA program can lead to rewarding roles in management, finance, marketing, sales and other fields. Due to the high demand for MBA degrees, admission into many programs is competitive. Taking the time to complete your MBA application carefully, write your resume and personal statement and collect all required supportive documents can set you apart from other applicants.
NKU’s online MBA program gives you the flexibility to earn an advanced degree according to a schedule that fits your life. Learn about earning your MBA online with NKU and begin your application today.
