MBA Admission Requirements

MBA Admission requirements are unique for different schools and programs.

Admissions procedures differ somewhat and not all programs require the same criteria.

However, there are some common elements that admissions commitees are looking for.

It is always best to get your specific information from the business school itself. Usually the school's website will give you ample information.

Your task is to put the pieces of the puzzle together so you can verify that you meet the MBA application requirements.

Business prerequisites can be part of the admission requirements. Some programs require you to have a certain "body of knowledge" in business subjects before you can start. If prerequisites exist, the school should specify the way (or ways) to satisfy prerequisites.

Some or all of the items below are needed for an application package...

• Application Form - There is usually some sort of application form that you submit. Most schools charge a non-refundable fee for each application submitted. These days, most applications forms can be submitted online.
• Official Transcripts - Because the MBA is a master's level degree, you are required to have a bachelor's degree before you enter the program. Therefore, you need to send official transcript copies from each college you attended. This will be used to verify degree completion and any applicable MBA prerequisites, as well as Grade Point Average (GPA).
• Work Resume - Many MBA programs recommend or even require you to have a certain number of years of full-time work experience. The rule of thumb is two years for full-time programs and much more for executive programs. You should submit a work-related resume to verify work experience requirements if applicable.
• Admissions Test Score - 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. Test scores must be sent to each MBA school where you apply. These score are usually good for 5 years.
• Letters of Recommendation - Business schools usually want to know how you work with others in both a business and academic environment. Therefore, two or three letters of recommendation will be required. These recommendation letters usually come from people like previous professors, employers, and other associates.
• Application Essays - Most schools want to know about you and why you want to pursue an MBA at their school. This means that one or more essays are required. This gives you an opportunity to portray yourself and express your goals.

Some schools require interviews in one shape or another. This is another great way for you to show why you belong in the MBA program you are applying for. If applicable, this would usually take place after you have submited your application package.

It should be noted that international students will likely have additional MBA admission requirements. For example, international students will need to verify they have an acceptable bachelor's degree. Also, where English is a second language, English proficiency will have to be verified. This is usually done using test results from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).