lbs mba essay

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LBS MBA Essays : Sample Essays & Writing Tips

MBA & Beyond Team

22/12/2023 | 7:31 pm

As a student looking to study abroad, you’re on the threshold of an exciting journey, and the London Business School (LBS) offers a unique opportunity to catapult your career onto the global stage.

The MBA essays are a critical part of your application, serving as a window into your aspirations, experiences, and personality. Let’s dive into what makes an exceptional LBS MBA essay, setting you apart in a pool of global talents.

WHO IS LBS LOOKING FOR?

The London Business School isn’t just looking for smart students; they seek individuals ready to challenge norms and lead in an ever-globalizing world. LBS values diversity – not just in nationality but in thoughts and experiences. So, who exactly fits the bill?

Key Characteristics of an Ideal LBS Candidate:

• Global Mindset: Students who appreciate and leverage global diversity.
• Leadership Potential: A track record of leadership or the potential to lead.
• Academic Excellence: Strong academic credentials backed by a solid GMAT or GRE score.
• Professional Experience: An average of 5 years of work experience, showcasing growth and impact.
• Collaborative Spirit: A collaborative approach to learning and problem-solving.

In summary, LBS looks for candidates who are more than their academic scores. They value diversity, leadership, and a global outlook. If you see yourself in this description, you’re on the right path!

BREAKING DOWN THE LBS MBA ESSAY QUESTIONS

When it comes to the LBS MBA application, the essays play a pivotal role. Understanding the questions is your first step to crafting responses that resonate with the admissions committee.

Essay Questions Overview:

• Required Essay: This revolves around your post-MBA goals and how LBS will contribute towards these goals.
• Optional Essay: An opportunity to share additional, significant information with the admissions committee.

REQUIRED ESSAY: POST-MBA GOALS AND LBS’S ROLE

This essay is your chance to showcase clarity in your career aspirations and how an LBS MBA aligns with these goals. The key here is specificity – be clear about your post-MBA goals and how LBS, with its unique offerings, will be instrumental in achieving them.

OPTIONAL ESSAY: BEYOND THE RESUME

The optional essay is a space to address any gaps in your application or to highlight unique aspects of your profile. This isn’t just about fixing weaknesses; it’s an opportunity to share stories or experiences that give depth to your application.

• Use bullet points to list down key elements of each essay question.
• Highlight the word limit and specific requirements for each essay.

WRITING THE REQUIRED ESSAY: TIPS AND STRATEGIES

Crafting the required essay involves a delicate balance of discussing your goals, past experiences, and the significance of LBS in your journey. Let’s break it down:

• Contextualize Your Goals: Start by defining your post-MBA goals. Be specific about the industry, role, and how these goals align with your long-term vision.
• Link Past Experiences: Connect your past work and academic experiences to your goals. How have these experiences shaped your aspirations?
• Role of LBS: This is crucial. Detail how LBS’s curriculum, culture, and network will be instrumental in achieving your goals. Mention specific courses, clubs, and other unique aspects of LBS.

Key Takeaways :

• Start with a clear statement of your post-MBA goals.
• Use bullet points to list past experiences relevant to your goals.
• Include a section specifically on how LBS will help you achieve these goals, with bullet points for clarity.

TACKLING THE OPTIONAL ESSAY

The optional essay in the LBS MBA application can be a bit of a wild card. It’s your chance to address parts of your application that might raise questions or to add another dimension to your profile. Here’s how to approach it:

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• Addressing Gaps or Weaknesses: Use this essay to explain any anomalies in your academic or professional background, such as gaps in employment or low grades. The key is to be honest and succinct, providing context without making excuses.
• Adding Depth to Your Profile: If you don’t have gaps to address, use this opportunity to highlight aspects of your personality or experiences that aren’t covered elsewhere in your application. This could be personal achievements, unique experiences, or aspects of your background that contribute to your diversity of thought.

Essential Tips:

• List down scenarios when you should use the optional essay.
• Use bullet points to highlight key strategies for each scenario.

MAKING YOUR STORY SHINE

In crafting your essays for the LBS MBA, it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it. Your essays should tell a compelling story that resonates with the admissions committee.

• Personalize Your Narrative: Share personal stories that reflect your character, values, and journey. This makes your application memorable and relatable.
• Be Authentic and Reflective: Authenticity is key. Reflect on your experiences, learnings, and how they have shaped your perspective and aspirations.
• Show, Don’t Just Tell: Use specific examples and achievements to illustrate your points. This gives credibility to your claims and brings your story to life.

LBS APPLICATION DEADLINES AND PROCESS

Navigating the application deadlines and process for the LBS MBA program is crucial for a timely and successful submission. Here’s what you need to know:

APPLICATION DEADLINES:

• Make sure to check the latest application deadlines on the LBS website.
• Plan to submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid last-minute stress.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

• Online Application: Start by filling out the online application form, which includes personal information, academic history, and professional experience.
• Essays: Allocate ample time to write and revise your essays. Remember, they are a central part of your application.
• Recommendations: Choose your recommenders wisely – they should be able to provide insightful comments on your abilities and potential.
• Interview: If selected, you will be invited for an interview, which is a key component of the evaluation process.
• Use a bulleted list for the steps in the application process.
• Highlight important dates and deadlines in a separate box for easy reference.

As you embark on the journey of crafting your LBS MBA essays, remember that this is your opportunity to shine. Be authentic, be reflective, and most importantly, be yourself. The essays are a way to communicate not just your professional aspirations but also your personal journey and the unique qualities you will bring to the LBS community.

Embrace the process, and remember that each part of the application is a chance to showcase a different facet of who you are.

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2024-2025 London Business School (LBS) MBA Essay Analysis and Tips

Admit expert.

• July 23, 2024

If you’re thinking about getting an MBA in the UK, you may have heard of London Business School (LBS). London Business School, located in one of the world’s most significant business capitals, offers a completely unique MBA experience. With the option to complete the program in just 15 months and a student body comprised of more than 60 different nationalities, London Business School is a top choice for many internationally-minded individuals.

London Business School has formally confirmed the essay prompts for the 2024-2025 admissions season. If you are interested in an MBA program with a worldwide community and access to a major metropolis, London Business School may be an excellent choice.

London Business School is really a global centre, with 60+ nationalities represented in the class of 2025 and distinguished professors and visiting speakers from around the world. In addition, 43 percent of the class of 2025 identifies as female, and students come from a variety of industry backgrounds, according to the information provided.

Getting into such a highly competitive MBA program requires you to ace every component of your application particularly the essay section. 

Here are the 2024-2025 essays for London Business School and how to answer them.

LBS MBA Essays

Essays are a vital part of your application and we recommend that you spend a significant amount of time in their preparation. The questions for the LBS MBA programme are:

What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words)

• Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (Optional) (500 words)

This question has been on the LBS application for some years now. It is a traditional goals essay, a type of essay that many top business schools ask applicants to write.

Through this essay, you must demonstrate that you have a long-term goal for your career and yourself and that you have a solid strategy for achieving it through the LBS MBA program. 

Of course, the fundamental presumptions are that business school is the logical next step in your development and that you should pursue your degree at LBS specifically because the institution offers the unique experiences, knowledge, skills, exposure, and/or other components that are essential for you to realize your goals and succeed in your chosen career. 

Ideally, you have previously done extensive research on the program to identify these crucial resources and areas of compatibility, but if not, do not skip this crucial stage and/or merely refer to the fundamental offers that the majority of business schools have. 

Your essay must be focused on LBS. The key to writing a strong essay response here is to demonstrate your genuine interest in the program by providing specific instances and creating links between what the school offers, what you need, and who you are.

In short, through this essay you need to explain the following:

• Background of your goals
• Your post-MBA goals
• Why MBA and why now to achieve those goals
• How LBS MBA can help you achieve those goals

LBS MBA Essay tips

Here are five ideas to get you started:

• Go beyond your resume

Instead, pay attention to the instances that helped you stay on track with your career aspirations or demonstrated your leadership potential. Make a point of emphasizing the links between your prior experiences and your present goals.

• For your post-MBA career goals, make sure they are thoroughly researched and feasible.

Consider this when making career, role, or location changes. If you don’t have a solid strategy for the future, the admissions committee will see that as a big red flag.

• Explain why LBS is the best option for you.

‘I desire to expand my professional network’ could be used in any MBA essay. Your presence in the LBS classroom isn’t warranted just on the basis of this flimsy argument. LBS encourages students to think beyond the box and challenge the status quo. Make sure you can explain why LBS is the ideal fit for you.

• Make sure you talk to LBS alums/current students to get a sense of what the school stands for.

The LBS website has testimonies and contact information for student ambassadors. Searchable by program nationality and industry, this database of student ambassadors is an invaluable tool. Take advantage of the opportunities that are available to you by speaking with current LBS students and attending virtual events.

• LBS should be a platform to help you achieve your long-term career goals and objectives.

For those who want to tailor their MBA experience, LBS claims to have the “world’s most adaptable MBA.” Using LBS as a launching pad, explain how you plan to move from point A (your current job) to point B (your post-MBA profession).

In addition, keep in mind what you’ll study at LBS and in London. What additional education or training can help you reach your professional objectives? 

Essay 2 (Optional)

Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (500 words)

Applicants usually use the optional essay to explain confusing or problematic parts of their application, like a low grade or GPA, a low GMAT or GRE score, a gap in work experience, etc., and LBSs can be used in this way as well. 

If you think you need to clarify something about your profile, first look at the other parts of the school’s application, where you may already have a chance to do so (such as academic performance and disciplinary instances). 

If you can talk about your problem somewhere else, do that instead. Don’t use this essay to just repeat what you said elsewhere.

If you don’t think there are any parts of your application that need more explanation, you could use this essay to give a more complete, positive picture of yourself. Just be sure to use this chance wisely. 

Do not just cut and paste an essay you already wrote for another school and hope for the best. Take a step back and think carefully about what the admissions committee already knows about you from the rest of your application, including the required essay. 

Then, do your best to come up with and tell a story that really helps people understand your character. Because this question is so broad, you have a lot of ways to answer it. 

You’ll need to be honest with yourself and ask yourself if you’re just adding something extra to your application with this essay or if you’re actually adding something that would help the school get a full and fair picture of you. 

Be mindful and respectful of the admissions committee’s time, and keep in mind that each additional file you send requires more resources from the admissions office. 

This means that whatever you write must be really worth it and show that you took advantage of this chance to give more information about yourself.

In our opinion, this open-ended question is a great chance to tell a personal story and give it some color to show how you will fit in with the culture. This could be the perfect place to talk about a background, experience, or trait that doesn’t fit anywhere else on the application.

There are many ways to look at diversity. It could be where you come from, the culture you identify with, or how you live your life. If different experiences or ways of thinking don’t speak to you, ask yourself if you’ve ever been challenged or come up with something new. 

When have you tried something new or questioned what everyone else thought? A global perspective is also very important. Think of stories that could show how you have shown any of these qualities that LBS looks for.

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London Business School Essay Tips: 2024-2025

If you are seeking an MBA program with a global community and access to a major city,  London Business School  may be a great option for you.

If you have decided that the London Business School full-time MBA program is a good fit for you, check out Personal MBA Coach’s tips below for tackling the LBS MBA essay questions.

For the first time in a while, this year London Business School added a new second essay prompt  while maintaining the traditional goals-focused essay question .

London Business School’s MBA Application Deadlines 2024-2025

Round 1: September 6, 2024

Round 2: January 3, 2025

Round 3: March 24, 2025

London Business School’s MBA Essays for 2024-2025

Personal mba coach’s london business school essay tips.

LBS Essay 1:  What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these?  (500 words maximum)

This is a standard goals essay. Personal MBA Coach recommends beginning your essay by providing some background context about yourself and detailing your career accomplishments to date. This does not mean that applicants should detail their entire careers or repeat what is on their resume . However, LBS is looking to understand how your past career has prepared you to achieve your goals. Therefore, you should include some discussion of your career in terms of how it relates to your aspirations.

After sharing this background information, go on to discuss your MBA goals. If you are having trouble articulating your goals, take a look at Personal MBA Coach’s  six key pieces of advice for tackling goals . This section should be a good portion of your essay and should include a specific short-term and long-term goal.

Finally, the remainder of your essay should specifically discuss how attending London Business School will help you accomplish these goals. Be sure to research everything that London Business School’s MBA program has to offer and detail what you plan to take part in on campus. Is there a class you want to take? A club you hope to join? Mention these here and clearly explain how they relate to your MBA goals. Keep in mind that LBS is an international program, and a strong essay will explain why this is important to you.

LBS Essay 2: What makes you unique? (200 words maximum)

In previous years, LBS had only one required essay question. However, applicants often used the optional essay to cover additional aspects of their candidacy. Instead, this year, all applicants are required to answer a shorter essay telling London Business School admissions what makes them unique.

You have only 200 words to use, so Personal MBA Coach urges you to focus your answer while considering how you will add unique value to the LBS classroom.

Do you have a unique skill or talent to share? Do you come from an underrepresented field or background? Do you have significant extracurricular leadership experience? Do you have a specific passion?

If so, these could make great topics. Regardless of what you select, as you craft your answer, remember that an admissions director’s job is to develop a well-rounded class. So, your goal here is to tell LBS how you will be different from your peers.

LBS Essay 3 (Optional): Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School?  (500 words maximum)

In prior years, Personal MBA Coach suggested that applicants use this optional essay to tell London Business School a bit more about who you are and what makes you unique.

Given the new essay, use this optional essay only if there is something significant that you could not adequately cover in essay 2. Or, if you have extenuating circumstances to discuss (low GPA, career gaps, etc.) this optional essay is the place to briefly share that information with admissions.

Want to learn more about the London Business School full-time MBA program? Visit Personal MBA Coach’s  LBS school page  for more information on what sets the program apart.

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Advice, tips and insights from the admissions dream team., table of contents, london business school essays: tips & strategy.

• By Emma Bond

The London Business School (LBS) MBA application is quite pragmatic, but the school has added an essay that allows a welcome opportunity for candidates to get creative and show how they stand out.

To the longstanding required LBS essay about your post-MBA goals, the essay added for the 2024-25 application season asks, “What makes you unique?”  It’s seemingly simple, but like new essays at other schools this year, it’s likely to cause a bit of head-scratching. 

As the former Senior Manager of MBA Admissions at LBS, I believe that this new LBS MBA essay question on what makes you unique, paired with the question about your post-MBA career goals and how the LBS program will help you achieve them, will give the Admissions Committee a well-rounded view of you as a candidate and potential contributor to the incoming class.

When  I sat down for a virtual conversation with LBS Admissions Director David Simpson and asked about the qualities he’s looking for in an MBA candidate, Simpson said:

“Above all for me is the idea of an inquiring mind — someone who’s fascinated by other views gathered from around the world, somebody who is open for personal growth.… In addition: ambition, a collaborative nature, curious and questioning with a global outlook and desire, reflective and self-aware with some humility — these are factors that everybody needs in business and in society.”

With this in mind — and always remembering the global outlook central to life and learning at LBS — your answers to the LBS essay questions are the place to convey a high level of self-awareness and ambition while conveying your uniqueness to the Admissions Committee.

How To Tackle the London Business School Essays

Lbs essay 1.

What are your post-MBA plans and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these ? (500 words)

LBS has retained this question for a long time; if answered well, it should tell the Admissions Committee exactly what they need to know. The question pulls no punches — it doesn’t make you read between the lines — but its seeming simplicity is what makes it so tricky. At a minimum, you need to make a compelling case for needing an MBA to achieve your professional goals. Then you need to demonstrate how London Business School is uniquely positioned to help achieve them. 

The best answers go a little deeper, giving the admissions committee context into what has motivated your post-MBA career goals and showing an advanced level of self-awareness.

Like all schools, LBS wants to see you’ve done your homework, so you’ll need to showcase deeper knowledge of the program and community than you can glean from a quick review of their website. This is your opportunity to highlight your school research and show your love for LBS. Think about how specific classes, professors, clubs or other on- and off-campus initiatives will factor into your success, and importantly, how they are relevant to your career goals.

LBS Essay 2

What makes you unique? (200 words)

The challenge here is that the. question asks you to differentiate yourself in just 200 words. How do you find something new to tell the admissions committee that is not already covered by the application data form, resume or the many other essays? 

Candidates will need to be careful not to duplicate information. There are already short-answer questions that address extracurriculars and international experiences, and then the longer 500-word optional essay on a topic of your choice (see below).

You will need to spend a bit of time in self-reflection for this LBS Essay. Everyone is unique, but what is it that will make you stand out in the context of a business school application? Think deeply about the personal qualities and characteristics you bring to the table that will be valuable in a classroom and b-school community context. Maybe it’s not just one thing that makes you unique, but a combination of traits or experiences.

What makes you unique might also be your passion for a particular cause—but how have you demonstrated commitment to that cause? You could speak to a defining value—in which case, how is this value or belief evidenced in your behaviors and actions? Be careful to avoid clichés, an overstated list, or something so random that the readers will want to run for the hills.

The word limit is a brief 200 words, so the admissions committee will be looking for a succinct essay that’s to the point. If you waffle, you’re going to run out of room pretty quickly.

Optional LBS Essay 3 

Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School?  (500 words)

In many business school applications, the optional essay needs to be used to explain a less-than-stellar undergraduate performance or low GMAT. However, London Business School asks you about your prior academic performance specifically in their application form. If you have another weakness you’re concerned about — perhaps you were let go from a job or took an extended career break— you should use this section to explain.

Otherwise, use this section to strengthen the case for your candidacy by highlighting another aspect of your profile that makes you a great fit for LBS. Perhaps you have another passion, not directly related to your career goals. This is your chance to tell the committee what you’ve done with that passion, and what you’ll do to share it with the community, showcasing your leadership, team skills and international outlook along the way.

Our clients always come up with some great examples for this LBS essay. Some of the most memorable include:

• a candidate who had overcome learning disabilities and wanted to help connect learning-disabled students at LBS with the resources to help them succeed in the program; 
• an amateur photographer who had organized exhibitions who wanted to revive the LBS photography club; and 
• an LGBTQ+ rights advocate who had been a senior organizer of his city’s Pride parade and wanted to take a leadership role within the Out in Business (OiB) club on campus.

View our MBA Admissions Essay Masterclass featuring London Business School, INSEAD & HEC Paris, above. Additional sessions from our MBA Admissions Essay Masterclass series are available on  Fortuna’s YouTube channel .

Want More Advice? 

For more insights and advice on LBS MBA essay questions, view our related articles and videos:

• How to Get Into London Business School
• Why London Business School Should Be On Your Shortlist
• London Business School MBA Interview: Everything You Need to Know
• INSEAD & London Business School: Insider Admissions Advice  (7-min video blog)

Let’s Get You In.

Fortuna Admissions is a dream team of former MBA admissions directors and officers from top business schools, including LBS. With our unparalleled collective expertise, we can coach you to develop a clear vision of your goals for business school and beyond. We work closely with you throughout the application process and provide expert guidance at every stage to maximize your chances of admission to a top school.

Our free consultations are consistently rated as the best in the industry. To learn more about Fortuna and assess your chances of admission to the schools on your target list, book your consultation session now.

Fortuna’s Emma Bond is an expert MBA admissions coach and former LBS Senior Manager of MBA Admissions. She has been rated as the top MBA admissions consultant in the world by Poets&Quants.

• Posted on July 3, 2024

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The Complete Guide to the LBS MBA in 2024

• Class Profile
• Employment Report & Careers

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What Makes LBS Unique?

London Business School is the leading two-year MBA program in Europe. With 90% percent of each class coming from outside the UK, the school offers a truly international environment that cannot be matched by even the most international two-year MBA programs in the US.

LBS takes full advantage of the London location through programs like the LondonCAP, in which students work with London-based companies on live projects. Frequent project sponsors include tech companies like Google, retail stalwarts like Mulberry, and even government agencies, such as the UK Cabinet Office.

LBS is careful to admit students who have a good fit with the program, and two categories of applicants should be cautious:

• Are you a US applicant who wants to live and work in the US after your MBA, but wants to relive the glory days of your college study abroad? You’ll struggle to convince LBS that their program is the right fit, when you could attend a US program and study abroad through a shorter program. If you are invited to interview at LBS, you will have to answer a very specific question before the interview about what London Business School can do for you that other business schools cannot. Most successful applicants either wish to work in an international setting after they graduate, or at minimum, work in their home country while having extensive contact with international clients and suppliers.
• Are you totally undecided between LBS and INSEAD ? This is a dead giveaway that you care about rankings more than you care about your fit with the program, since a one-year and two-year program are so different from each other. (Even though LBS has started to offer a 15-month option.)

On the flip side, candidates who need a two-year business education and want to live and work in the UK or Europe are a great fit for this program.

LBS MBA Class Profile

The data above is from 2023 and represents the LBS MBA class of 2025. See the full report: LBS MBA Class Profile

Student Experiences

LBS MBA Employment Report & Careers

The data above is from 2021 and represents the career statistics for the LBS MBA class of 2021.* See the full report: LBS MBA Employment Report

LBS MBA Academic Programs 

The London Business School curriculum is spread out across the two years of the program, with the first year divided into three academic terms. Term one lasts from August to December, term two begins in January and ends in March, and term three is from April to June. The second year of the program is entirely customizable, right upto the exit date, which can mean that the program lasts anywhere between 15 to 21 months. The first year of the program is dedicated primarily to LBS’s core coursework . Students take several classes in business fundamentals, including subjects such as strategy, marketing, and operations management. Some of the core components can be selected from a range of topics in the “tailored core” part of the curriculum. Topics that are part of the tailored core include Digital Strategy, Value Chain Management, Global Economic Analysis, and Business Analytics. As part of the LBS elective curriculum , students make their selection out of 80 available courses. You can take classes in subjects ranging from Accounting to Organisational Behavior.

See course offerings in more detail: LBS Course Descriptions

In lieu of majors, LBS offers elective concentrations. The current offerings include the following seven concentrations.

• Change Management
• Entrepreneurial Management
• Private Equity

Experiential Learning Programs

LBS’s experiential learning program consists of the following four components.

• London Core Application Practicum module . Students work on projects with top companies in London such as BBC and the British Fashion Council. 
• Entrepreneurship Summer School . Test your business idea by using field-based research, and find support through investor advice and mentorship.
• Global Business Experience . Students can gain hands-on business experience by applying newly-learned classroom skills in a variety of international locations.
• Summer Internships . You can boost your career progression in the MBA by participating in one to two summer internships across a wide variety of industries.

London Business School is home to six research centers and institutes : the AQR Asset Management Institute , the Center for Corporate Governance , the Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship , the Leadership Institute , Private Equity at LBS , and the Wheeler Institute for Business and Development . 

Through the Global Business Experience Program , students at LBS can combine gaining real-world business experience with an international business component. Current locations available to students are South Africa, Israel, India, Hong Kong, Peru, Myanmar, and Brazil. During these one-week trips, you can participate in workshops, panels, and company visits.

Video Resources on LBS Academics

LBS MBA Application

Admissions case study: getting into lbs.

Coming from a middle-office role in a local commercial bank, Shu Wing knew he was going up against some very stiff competition. He wanted to propel his career to a front-office role in investment banking, targeting an LBS MBA, and without a top employer or top school on his resume, he had to find a way to stand out against a very competitive pool of bankers from buy-side or front-office roles in large investment banks like Morgan Stanley or Goldman Sachs.

Hear how he navigated the MBA application process and ultimately won a spot in the LBS MBA Class of 2022.

The latest application requirements set by the LBS MBA admissions office are described below.

Here are the prompts for LBS’s 2023-2024 application:

Question 1. What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words)

Current employment.

1. Tell us about your responsibilities. Describe your day-to-day role, details of any clients you work with/for, the level/title of the person you report to, the size of budget for which you are directly responsible and the number of people in your team. (text box, 400 words max)*

2. Reason for taking on this role (text box, 255 characters)*

*Note: You are required to add the word count at the end of each question.

• Do you feel that your academic performance so far gives an accurate indication of your potential for success on the programme? If so, why? If not, why not? (text box)
• Have you ever received formal disciplinary action from an academic institution, been forced to withdraw from a course of study, or failed to graduate? If so, you must declare that information here. (text box)

Please tell us your most significant international experiences to date. (100 words max)

Tell us about your main interests and activities in your free time. (text box, 300 words max)

We encourage applicants to take into consideration the impact of study on family and friends. Who have you discussed your plans with and what was the response? (text box, 300 words max)

If you know any London Business School Alumni or Students, please give their names, graduating class and tell us how you know them. (text box, 300 words max)

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London Location : It’s no surprise that LBS has strong ties to the city in which it originates. In addition to the emblematic British building situated in the heart of the city, the school fosters close relationships with local businesses–as well as the government–for projects and internships.

Diversity as a Cornerstone Value : Because 90% of the typical LBS MBA class hails from outside the UK, you can expect an inclusive and multiculturally rich environment with no dominant culture. Additionally, the school is committed to embracing “the many dimensions of diversity” and publishes an annual report documenting its progress and ongoing efforts to create an even more diverse community.

Uncover the enriching experiences of LBS MBA program through firsthand accounts from students and professors, and discover how our MBA consulting services can elevate your career prospects

Related Articles

• Top International MBA Programs
• INSEAD vs. London Business School: Which is Right for YOU?
• Mid-Office Finance Candidate Admitted to LBS
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*All data retrieved from the London Business School MBA Program webpages and other sources .

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• One-year MBA

How to apply

• Go to Programme content
• Core courses
• Experiential Learning
• Career impact
• Fees and financing
• Who attends
• Information events

Applications for the inaugural intake, joining us in August 2025, will open in July 2024.

Be the first to know when the applications open.

• Application process
• Application calendar

The One-year MBA application will open in July 2024.

• We have three application deadlines each year
• All application deadlines are 17:00 UK time
• Selected applicants are invited to join us for an interview conducted by alumni or senior admissions staff, usually in the region in which you are based

Prepare for your application

You can start preparing for your application for the August 2025 intake, following the below guidance:

• Prepare for and take your GMAT or GRE test
• Notify your professional referee 
• Begin drafting and writing your essays, as per essay questions below

Question 1. (500 words) What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these?

Question 2. (500 words) (This question is optional) Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School?

Deadlines for the One-year MBA application are likely to run alongside our 15-21 month MBA programme  rounds .

Please register your interest to receive relevant updates.

Register your interest

Candidate requirements

If you are made an offer at London Business School and you are a European Economic Area (EEA), Swiss or non-EEA national, you may need a visa to study in the UK. For more information, please visit  visa requirements .

Candidates must have graduated three or more years ago with a Masters in Management or equivalent from a university/business school approved by the accreditation bodies EQUIS and/or AACSB , or from a University of London member institution. This is essential for entry onto the One-year MBA.

The application form is designed to be completed over several sessions. You can save your work as you go and submit the completed form whenever you are ready.

Essays are a vital part of your application and we recommend that you spend a significant amount of time in their preparation. The questions for our MBA programmes are:

• What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words)
• Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (Optional) (500 words)

Your one-page CV is uploaded as part of the online application form. Please give reasons for significant gaps in employment history on a separate sheet.

You need to ask someone to act as your referee, this person could be either of the following:

• your current employer (if you don't want to ask your employer to be a referee, a colleague is acceptable)
• someone else who knows you well in a work context, for example a former employer or long-standing client.

After you input your referee's details into the online application form we will send them an email with log-in details for our online reference system. London Business School reserves the right to contact your referee for further information in connection with your application.

Download further information on references for applicants and referees (PDF document, 156.00kb)

You must have a valid GMAT, GMAT Focus or GRE test score before submitting an application. We also accept EA scores from candidates who have previously scored well on the GMAT / GRE when applying for their masters, but whose scores are no longer valid. Valid scores must be less than five years old and you must request for the test organisation to report the official score to us. Please submit your official test taker copy of your score with your application.

Register to take the GMAT, or try the GMAT test.

Please note, you may be asked by the Admissions Committee to retake the test before receiving an offer.

Read the FAQs for more information on GMAT/GRE requirements.

If English is not your native language, or if you have not been studying fully in English or living in an English-speaking country for at least two years, please submit your IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge CPE, CAE or PTE Academic score. Other tests will not be accepted.

Our TOEFL institution code is 0898.

For more information, see our English language requirements for guidance on accepted scores.

The application fee is £200. This fee is paid by credit card with your application form; your application will remain incomplete until we receive the correct fee.

A transcript of grades from each university you have attended (if you are made an offer). Transcripts also require a certified translation into English.

Admissions blog

Get an inside look at how best to showcase your potential to the Admissions Committee.

GMAT simulator

A strong GMAT or GRE score helps us assess your ability to succeed on the programme.

So what happens next?

Once you successfully submit your application. Here’s what to expect next.

Your application will be considered by the Admissions Committee in keeping with the deadlines relevant to the stage you applied. If you are successful your Regional Admissions Manager will begin the process of finding an alumnus/alumna in your region to interview you.

Selected applicants will then be invited to join us for the interview stage. Interviews are conducted by alumni or senior admissions staff of the One-year MBA programme and your interview will take place in the region in which you are based. Based on interviewer availability, you may be asked to travel in order to complete your interview.

Interview feedback is then combined with your initial application and used by the Admissions Committee to reach a decision which may be:

• Offer – The exceptional merits of your application and interview mean London Business School would like to offer you a place to join the One-year MBA programme
• Reject – Your application will come to an end for this year but the option to apply in the subsequent admission cycle is available
• Waitlist – London Business will not be making an offer at this stage, but we remain open to gathering more information concerning your candidacy given the strengths of your application

Please note that all offers are made via email. Given varying time zones this email may reach you outside of working hours.

Each year some applicants who are placed on the waitlist are later offered a place in the current class, or sometimes for the following year. If you are placed on the waitlist you will be provided with additional information about next steps.

Admissions advice

David Simpson, MBA and MiF Admissions Director at London Business School, shares his advice on applying to the MBA programmes.

Fees, financing and scholarships

We have a broad and growing scholarship portfolio to help support your studies, as well as a number of loan options.

London Business School in 360°

Dynamic. Cosmopolitan. Diverse. You’ll find all the energy of London – its cultural richness and spirit of innovation – right here on our London campus. Take a look around in this 360° tour.

How to apply FAQs

Applications for the inaugural 2025 class will open in July 2024. Please  register your interest  to receive programme updates.

You must ensure that your GMAT, GMAT Focus or GRE score is valid upon submitting your application.

Our average GMAT score for the MBA class is around 700, with a typical class range of 600 to 800. You should note that the minimum score we will accept is usually around 600, depending on your academic and professional background.

Our score expectations for GMAT Focus are in line with the equivalent scores from the previous GMAT. You should aim for 645, but we are likely to require at least 555 and above.

For GRE, we prefer scores over 160 for both verbal and quantitative sections.

We will look at all elements of your score and although a good score is preferable, the GMAT / GRE is just one of the admissions criteria. Just as a high score does not guarantee admission, a below average score does not always eliminate a candidate.

If you feel that you could improve your score, you are advised to retake the test to help make you a more competitive candidate. If you plan to retake your GMAT after the application deadline you should liaise directly with the MBA admissions team at [email protected] for further advice.

We will accept the EA if you have a good score on a prior GMAT / GRE, but it is from more than five years ago.

You should be aware that some employers may prefer you to have a GMAT score.

Please note, you may be asked by the Admissions Committee to retake a test before receiving an offer if they feel that your current score is too low. Practice the GMAT test with London Business School's GMAT simulator and prepare yourself for the test.

No. You’ll need to select which programme you’re applying to at the beginning of your application. If you are unsure which is best for you, please contact our recruitment team  [email protected] .

The School does not have any arrangements for students to transfer between its programmes or to/from a programme at another institution.

The expected range of work experience after completing your masters in management is 3 to 10 years.

We will consider you, but the strength of your case will depend on the quality as well as the length of your work experience.

In addition to having obtained a masters in management, you will need to have at least three years’ relevant, high-quality work experience that demonstrates a strong track record of achievement.

Your work experience does not necessarily need to include experience as a manager. The programme is suitable for people who come from technical backgrounds (for example, engineering or IT), as well as for people who have worked in finance or consultancy or run their own business. We also welcome applications from people who have worked in the public sector/government.

Yes, we believe that military experience is very valuable. We strongly encourage former military personnel onto our programmes, as they have proven leadership, interpersonal and team-building skills.

Application to the One-year MBA will be free to London Business School alumni and active military candidates.

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Accepted Admissions Blog

Everything you need to know to get Accepted

August 30, 2022

London Business School Master’s in Management (MiM) Essay Questions, Tips and Deadlines [2022 – 2023], Class Profile

Everything you need to know about the LBS MiM Program

• Overview of the LBS MiM program

Application essay tips

Admissions requirements.

• Class profile
• Who gets accepted

Acceptance rate

Life at lbs, overview of the program.

The Master’s in Management (MiM) is London Business School’s longest running Early Careers (EC) programme. The first to be introduced to the EC portfolio in 2009, it has been developed in partnership with LBS’ world-renowned faculty and the recruiters who budding business practitioners aim to work for. It focuses on an applied learning approach, combining theory and practice so that students “learn how different business activities function and areas work together to deliver value”. This is all underpinned by the ethos that learning in a diverse environment (diversity extending to nationality, academic background, professional experience, interests) creates that all-important global perspective.

The MiM offers a flexible programme with exit points at 12-16 months. While some students will choose to complete the degree in three terms, those wishing to go on an International Exchange or take additional electives can opt to continue with a fourth term (additional fee required). Regardless of exit point, all students are required to take 15 modules across terms 1 and 2 along with online pre-programme courses.

Alongside the core curriculum, students are required to select 3 electives from a selection of 80 elective options across the subject areas Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management Science & Operations, Marketing, Organisational Behaviour, and Strategy & Entrepreneurship. Electives are held across programmes and give students a unique opportunity to work alongside MBAs , EMBAs , and other degree programme students. The cross-generational learning element is carried across to other aspects of the programme, such as with the mentorship scheme whereby MiMs can be mentored by MBA and MiF students and alumni.

In addition to the core curriculum and electives that develop hard academic skills, MiMs also focus time on developing the “soft skills that will enable you to build relationships, influence outcomes, and negotiate terms with self-awareness and confidence”. Through the Skills Programme, students work on understanding and honing the skills that employers expect, including interpersonal skills as well as numerical and digital literacy.

Experiential learning is a key aspect of the MiM experience and the programme allows students “to explore the real world of international business through hands-on experience”. During terms 2 and 3, MiMs participate in LondonLAB, an 8-10 week business project that tasks students to work in teams to solve challenges for a range of businesses from start-ups to multinationals across a variety of sectors. Past clients have included the BBC, Unicef, Salesforce, and Depop.

And for one week across terms 1, 2 or 3, students have the chance to participate in one of the programme’s Global Experience courses. Along with other Early Career, MBA, and Leadership programme peers, students work with faculty, corporations, micro-entrepreneurs, and alumni to “interact meaningfully with members of the local business ecosystem and gain an in-depth view of a country’s business culture”. Course themes and destinations are subject to change depending on travel restrictions due to Covid-19 but past experiences have included: sustainability developments in Dubai; examining Austin’s role as a breakthrough technologies hub; and examining what is unique about the venture capital and business ecosystem of San Francisco and Silicon Valley. What is all of this academic theory and experiential learning leading to? For 96% of the MiM2021 class (within three months of graduation), their degree led to a job. Specifically, pre-experience and graduate scheme roles across consulting (45%), financial services (27%), technology (18%), and diversified industries (10%). LBS’ Career Centre and its sector specialists and career coaches provide students with opportunities to engage with employers and “develop the skills and confidence to effectively communicate [their] value to employers”. How do they do this? Through a combination of activities such as: the Career Skills Programme; Personal Development Programme; Business Treks; and company engagements, including the Early Careers Recruitment Evening. While there is focus on helping MiMs to plan and navigate their recruitment journey, care is given to helping students develop the skills needed to network with LBS alumni and future employers, understand how to approach problem-solving and technical challenges at interviews, and how to find roles that match their skills, interests and aspirations.

LBS MiM essay #1

After several years with its mainstay ‘how will the programme support your academic and professional goals’ question, the MiM switched gears slightly last year and introduced a new essay 1 (and reduced word count):

What learning outcomes are you aiming to achieve as part of your Masters in Management programme? What challenge(s) might you encounter? ( 500 words )

While a different approach to the previous essay prompt, this question still tasks applicants to reflect on what they want to get out of the programme. In thinking of learning outcomes, this can be viewed as academic outcomes or professional outcomes, though this should all be underpinned by how the programme’s resources will support those outcomes.

In addressing academic learning outcomes, it would be wise to touch on the knowledge gaps you’re expecting the MiM to fill. Perhaps you come from a business/management background, but your undergraduate degree didn’t offer particular courses you need to achieve your career aims or took a more theoretical approach. Or you come from the sciences or the arts and need general management tuition to help launch your business. You may also need to understand certain concepts for your post-MFA career, or you might be interested in learning more about a subject area that you only touched on briefly during your undergrad. Here you want to discuss a few of the academic components that will support your learning and fill the outlined gaps. But steer clear of providing a list; this is where you want to show research and that you have a solid understanding of how the academic resources will fulfil your individual learning needs. So you need to discuss not just the ‘what’, but also the ‘why’. Also, avoid incorporating LBS resources here. This question is specifically about the MiM.

Learning outcomes can also extend to the professional. A large piece of the MiM curriculum revolves around skills development. Think about whether you need to hone any interpersonal skills to confidently present presentations to clients or to attend networking events with recruiters. Perhaps you need to scrub up on your modelling skills to achieve your consulting aims. This would be a good place to touch on how the Skills Programme and Career Centre will support those professional learning outcomes. A brief reminder of your career aims here is fine but keep it concise as these aims are already discussed in the application form.

The second half of the question – ‘what challenges might you encounter’ – was previously asked in the application form, so it’s not entirely new. But its presence as a standalone essay question indicates the adcom’s interest in understanding your level of self-awareness . This question really requires some introspection. While you may want to touch on the challenges that may arise with achieving the aforementioned learning aims, such as adapting to a new type of study environment or teaching method, it’s fine to also mention any personal challenges. After all, you’re a person. Perhaps you’ll need to employ time management and organisational tools to cope with the hectic schedule and pace, or you’ll need to switch gears in how you approach study in a grad school environment. A brief word on your ability to overcome these challenges to succeed in achieving your learning aims would make for a nice close to this essay.

LBS MiM essay #2

If essay 1 is about what you have to gain, essay 2 is about what you have to give back and remains with a focus on the wider school community:

During your time as a Master’s in Management student, how will you contribute to the School community? ( 400 words )

The idea of being communal is an essential value at LBS (more on that below). This question gives you a chance to showcase your achievements and how your past successes will allow you to impact the LBS community.

In thinking about how you can add value and contribute , start by reflecting on your experience – academic (undergraduate studies), professional (internships), and personal (extracurricular engagements). Think about where you’ve achieved success and how you can apply learnings or skills from those experiences to contribute. Presenting 3-4 ideas is advisable, but you may find you want to dedicate more word space to 1 or 2 ideas. And make sure these ideas are concrete; writing your international experience will support the learning experience of your peers doesn’t say anything. This is your chance to set yourself apart and show that you’ve not only done your research and understand what the community has to offer, but that you’ve put thought into how you can enhance the community around you.

To be eligible for the MiM, applicants must have less than two years of postgraduate work experience (only postgraduate work experience is considered towards the two-year limit; internships taken during your studies don’t count). 

MiMs come from a variety of undergraduate study backgrounds and while there’s no degree requirement, applicants must have achieved or expect to achieve a bachelor’s degree result equivalent to a UK 2:1 minimum / GPA 3.3 or above. Along with a strong undergraduate degree, GMAT or GRE is required and must be taken prior to applying. While there is no minimum score, it is recommended applicants apply with a 600+. 

As with other degree programmes, the MiM now requires only one reference, which must be submitted via the school’s online reference system. It is recommended applicants select a previous or current employer, though an academic referee will suffice so long as they can speak to the applicant’s character and abilities.

Along with reference, GMAT/GRE score, and undergraduate degree, applicants are required to submit a one page CV/resume , proof of English, and pay an application fee. Along with all of this comes a number of short answer questions in the application form. As these questions sit in the application form there’s sometimes thought that they’re not as important as the long form essays. Not true! The short answers, which ask questions around your interests, programme/school research, international experience, and career aims are key as they give the adcom an insight into who you are outside of your stats, what motivates you, and what you want to achieve. So do spend time crafting answers to these questions. 

The programme runs a staged admissions process. Applicants can apply at any one of the four stages, though early application is advised as competition becomes more intense in the final months.

Deadlines for the August 2023 (MiM 2024) intake are:

Source: LBS MiM website

LBS MiM class of 2022 profile

Students:  282

Nationalities : 51

Women:  56%

International students:  95%

Alumni:  48,000+

MiM 2022 undergraduate study discipline

• Business Management: 29%
• Economics: 17%
• Finance/Accounting: 17%
• Engineering: 11%
• Social Science: 9%
• Maths/Science: 6%
• Humanities: 5%

MiM 2022 nationalities by region

Europe (excl. UK): 35%

South East/East Asia: 34%

South Asia: 17%

United Kingdom: 6%

North America: 5%

Africa/Middle East: 2%

Central/South America: 1%

Who gets accepted to the LBS MiM program

The MiM is aimed at driven early career business practitioners who have graduated within the last two years, and with a maximum of two years of postgraduate work experience. While work experience isn’t required – some students will join immediately following their undergraduate degree – most students will have completed some type of professional work experience, whether an internship or full-time role. Work experience is as varied as undergraduate study discipline and students may have worked in MNCs, start-ups, or family businesses. Brand doesn’t necessarily mean everything; the adcom wants to understand why you’ve made the academic and professional choices that you have (connect the dots for them!), skills developed, and learning outcomes, all of which will support your learning experience, and that of your cohort, once on the programme.

While students will be educated on the types of industries and roles they may target post-programme, and where their skillset can be best utilised, all students are expected to be ready to build a foundation for a career in business. What does this mean? That they’ll have thought about their career aims and be able to demonstrate an understanding of their intended path through the application process. The adcom wants to see ambitious individuals who want to make an impact in the world around them. And they want to see individuals who have already achieved success and impacted those around them, be it at school or at work, and seek students who can demonstrate “a track record of excellence, achievement, and leadership potential”.

While data for Freedom of Information (FOI) requests may be found online, LBS, like many of its European counterparts, does not commonly supply information on acceptance or retention rates. But being LBS, it’s safe to assume that competition is fierce. MiMs are just as talented and driven as their more senior counterparts across other degree programmes and there are a lot of big fish looking to make a splash in a relatively small pond.

That said, the MiM admissions process should be considered a selection process. They’re keen to understand applicant journeys and that all important (and rather intangible) fit . This is done primarily through the interview process. While an interview does not guarantee an offer, it’s a sign that the adcom sees something interesting in you that it wants to further explore.

Community is one of the most important aspects of life at LBS – for students, alumni, faculty, and staff alike. This can be seen early from the application stage, where most degree programmes have at least one question in the application about the community and about how an applicant will add value to it. 

To be sure, the school doesn’t require, or indeed even expect every student to take a leadership position in a club or lead a trek. But it wants individuals on-campus who are communal in nature; those who participate, who enjoy peer-to-peer learning and teaching, who thrive in collaborative environments . 

More than 80 student clubs run more than 1,000 events every year, including social, professional, and cultural clubs. Students play a key role in developing and running student-led events such as the Women in Business Conference, EUROUT and China Business Forum. Whether participating as an organiser or spectator, these events give students the chance to network with one another as well as industry or subject-area experts and engage in discussion and debate about the most important issues facing business.

And community members jump at the chance to socialise outside of the classroom and professional interest clubs or business treks. Whether the annual Tattoo, which celebrates the school’s diversity through food, dance and entertainment, or the fortnightly Sundowners, where students, alumni, faculty, and staff can meet and network, LBSers never miss a chance to celebrate being part of the community.

Get professional guidance with your LBS MiM application! Check out Accepted’s MiM Application Packages , which include advising, editing, interview coaching, and a resume edit for the LBS MiM application.

Related Resources:

• 5 Fatal Flaws to Avoid in Your Application Essays , a free guide
• Early Career Management and European MBA Programs with Jamie Wright , a podcast episode
• Exploring London Business School’s Master’s in Analytics and Management , a podcast episode

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Tuesday Tips: London Business School Essays, Tips for 2024-2025

The  highly-ranked London Business School values independence and original thought. Its mission is to identify business leaders’ needs in a constantly changing world and equip them with the skills and savvy to thrive in an increasingly global market. These London Business School essays cover your personal attributes and professional aspirations. Consider how best to showcase your career accomplishments, extracurriculars, and individual characteristics in this essay set.

As always, you should maximize other application components, such as your resume and recommendations. Talk to your recommenders about crucial experiences in your background that you want them to highlight through their letters. At the same time, use your resume to describe critical moments at work.

Begin your program research by learning about the LBS culture . The  Student and Admissions Blog  is a great starting point. Of course, one of the best ways to get to know LBS is to visit the campus and interact with a  London Business School Student Ambassador . Also, take advantage of the school’s virtual information sessions .

Once you understand the school and its many opportunities, you will be better prepared to approach the London Business School essays.

Curious about your chances of getting into one of the world’s top B-schools? Contact us  to talk strategy with a free 15-minute advising session with an SBC Principal Consultant. 

London Business School Essays

Essay question 1: what are your post-mba goals and how will your prior experience and the london business school programme contribute towards these (500 words).

For this essay, self-awareness about your strengths and interests will help you refine what you truly want in your career. It could be helpful to talk to colleagues and alumni who have MBAs in your field to identify various career paths. Make sure that your career goals are both realistic and aspirational. Think about the short-term roles post-MBA that may lead to your most ambitious, longer-term goals.

Your past experiences have likely informed your post-MBA plans. Touching on those most relevant will help you set the background for your current pursuit of an MBA. Don’t make this essay a mere rehash of your resume. Think about explaining the rationale for your decisions throughout the essay. Why did you pursue your past experience, and what has been the impetus behind subsequent career choices? At this point, why are you choosing LBS?

As you speak with current LBS students and attend virtual events, learn as much as possible about the programs, professors, and classes that may help you achieve your goals. Consider what you will learn at LBS and in your time in London. What new skills and courses will lead to achieving your career goals? Also, the network you create during your MBA will open doors for you, and preparing for this essay can help you to make the most of the experience.

Essay Question 2: What makes you unique? (200 words)

In describing the LBS vision and continued business impact, the school represents the culture this way: “We challenge how things are done and we teach our students to constantly question and innovate. We believe in providing our students with the most diverse, world-class, and rewarding business education in the world.”

This open-ended question is an excellent opportunity to touch on a personal story and add color to your story to demonstrate how you will be part of this culture. Use this essay to describe your unique background, experience, or attributes.

When you consider what makes you unique, it could be many things. For example, you might be from a unique background, have an uncommon professional experience, or approach life in an atypical way. Are you known for challenging conventional wisdom? A global perspective is invaluable, as well. Think about stories that could illustrate how you have demonstrated any of these qualities valued by LBS.

Essay Question 3 (Optional)

Is there any other information you believe the admissions committee should know about you and your application to london business school (500 words).

This optional essay question is entirely open-ended. You can use the space in a traditional way by explaining anything that may require more background in your application. For example, if you have a grade below a B in any business-related course during undergrad. Or a recommender who is not a current supervisor.

Any explanation should be short and factual and focus on what you have done to bolster your candidacy. If you have academic weaknesses, highlight the courses you have taken since undergrad or your strong GMAT score. Another supporting fact might be quantitative work experience.

You could also use this essay to write about something that enhances your application. This could be a leadership story you are proud of. Or an important extracurricular accomplishment. Review your application and consider anything not covered in the resume, recommendations, and essays. This could be a place to add information needed to strengthen your candidacy.

For more insights into elite business schools abroad, listen to B-Schooled Podcast Episode #56 : An Overview of European MBA Programs.

To talk to Stacy Blackman Consulting about the London Business School essays, don’t hesitate to contact us!     We offer multiple services to meet your MBA application needs, from our  All-In Partnership  to hourly help reviewing your MBA resume.   Contact SBC today for a  free 15-minute advising session to talk strategy with a Principal SBC consultant. 

Here’s a snapshot of the caliber of expertise on our SBC team .

HBS Admissions Board at Harvard Business School HBS MBA

HBS Admissions Board at Harvard Business School Kellogg MBA

Director HBS Admissions at Harvard Business School MBA, the Wharton School

HBS Admissions Board at Harvard Business School

Director HBS Admissions at Harvard Business School HBS MBA

Admissions Officer at Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB) MBA, Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB)

Asst Director MBA Admissions at Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB) Director MBA Admissions at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business

MBA, Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB) Minority Admissions, the GSB Diversity Programs, the GSB

Associate Director MBA Admissions at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania

Associate Director MBA Admissions and Marketing at the Wharton MBA’s Lauder Institute

Director, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania Professional Writer

Assistant Director MBA Admissions at Columbia Business School (CBS) NYU Admissions

Assistant Director MBA Admissions at Columbia Business School (CBS) M.S.Ed, Higher Education, U of Pennsylvania

Associate Director MBA Admissions at Columbia Business School (CBS)

Ashley is a former MBA Admissions Board Member for Harvard Business School (HBS), where she interviewed and evaluated thousands of business school applicants for over a six year tenure.  Ashley  holds an MBA from HBS. During her HBS years,  Ashley  was the Sports Editor for the Harbus and a member of the B-School Blades Ice Hockey Team. After HBS, she worked in Marketing at the Gillette Company on Male and Female shaving ...

Kerry is a former member of the Admissions Board at Harvard Business School (HBS). During her 5+ year tenure at HBS, she read and evaluated hundreds of applications and interviewed MBA candidates from a wide range of backgrounds across the globe. She also led marketing and outreach efforts focused on increasing diversity and inclusion, ran the Summer Venture in Management Program (SVMP), and launched the 2+2 Program during her time in Admissions. Kerry holds a B.A. from Bates College and  ...

A former associate director of admissions at Harvard Business School, Pauline served on the HBS MBA Admissions Board full-time for four years. She evaluated and interviewed HBS applicants, both on-campus and globally.  Pauline's career has included sales and marketing management roles with Coca-Cola, Gillette, Procter & Gamble, and IBM.  For over 10 years, Pauline has expertly guided MBA applicants, and her clients h ...

Geri is a former member of the Admissions Board at Harvard Business School (HBS).  In her 7 year tenure in HBS Admissions, she read and evaluated hundreds of applications and interviewed MBA candidates from a diverse set of academic, geographic, and employment backgrounds.  Geri also traveled globally representing the school at outreach events in order to raise awareness for women and international students.  In additio ...

Laura comes from the MBA Admissions Board at Harvard Business School (HBS) and is an HBS MBA alumnus. In her HBS Admissions role, she evaluated and interviewed hundreds of business school candidates, including internationals, women, military and other applicant pools, for five years.  Prior to her time as a student at HBS, Laura began her career in advertising and marketing in Chicago at Leo Burnett where she worked on th ...

Andrea served as the Associate Director of MBA Admissions at Harvard Business School (HBS) for over five years.  In this role, she provided strategic direction for student yield-management activities and also served as a full member of the admissions committee. In 2007, Andrea launched the new 2+2 Program at Harvard Business School – a program targeted at college junior applicants to Harvard Business School.  Andrea has also served as a Career Coach for Harvard Business School for both cu ...

Jennifer served as Admissions Officer at the Stanford (GSB) for five years. She holds an MBA from Stanford (GSB) and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Jennifer has over 15 years experience in guiding applicants through the increasingly competitive admissions process into top MBA programs. Having read thousands and thousands of essays and applications while at Stanford (GSB) Admiss ...

Erin served in key roles in MBA Admissions--as Director at Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and Assistant Director at Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB). Erin served on the admissions committee at each school and has read thousands of applications in her career. At Haas, she served for seven years in roles that encompassed evaluation, outreach, and diversity and inclusion. During her tenure in Admissions at GSB, she was responsible for candidate evaluation, applicant outreach, ...

Susie comes from the Admissions Office of the Stanford Graduate School of Business where she reviewed and evaluated hundreds of prospective students’ applications.  She holds an MBA from Stanford’s GSB and a BA from Stanford in Economics. Prior to advising MBA applicants, Susie held a variety of roles over a 15-year period in capital markets, finance, and real estate, including as partner in one of the nation’s most innovative finance and real estate investment organizations. In that r ...

Dione holds an MBA degree from Stanford Business School (GSB) and a BA degree from Stanford University, where she double majored in Economics and Communication with concentrations in journalism and sociology. Dione has served as an Admissions reader and member of the Minority Admissions Advisory Committee at Stanford.   Dione is an accomplished and respected advocate and thought leader on education and diversity. She is ...

Anthony served as the Associate Director of MBA Admissions at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where he dedicated over 10 years of expertise. During his time as a Wharton Admissions Officer, he read and reviewed thousands of applications and helped bring in a class of 800+ students a year.   Anthony has traveled both domestically and internationally to recruit a ...

Meghan served as the Associate Director of Admissions and Marketing at the Wharton MBA’s Lauder Institute, a joint degree program combining the Wharton MBA with an MA in International Studies. In her role on the Wharton MBA admissions committee, Meghan advised domestic and international applicants; conducted interviews and information sessions domestically and overseas in Asia, Central and South America, and Europe; and evaluated applicants for admission to the program. Meghan also managed ...

Amy comes from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania where she was Associate Director. Amy devoted 12 years at the Wharton School, working closely with MBA students and supporting the admissions team.  During her tenure at Wharton, Amy served as a trusted adviser to prospective applicants as well as admitted and matriculated students.  She conducted admissions chats with applicants early in the admissions ...

Ally brings six years of admissions experience to the SBC team, most recently as an Assistant Director of Admission for the full-time MBA program at Columbia Business School (CBS).  During her time at Columbia, Ally was responsible for reviewing applications, planning recruitment events, and interviewing candidates for both the full-time MBA program and the Executive MBA program. She traveled both internationally and dome ...

Erin has over seven years of experience working across major institutions, including University of Pennsylvania, Columbia Business School, and NYU's Stern School of Business. At Columbia Business School, Erin was an Assistant Director of Admissions where she evaluated applications for both the full time and executive MBA programs, sat on the admissions and merit scholarship committees and advised applicants on which program might be the best fit for them based on their work experience and pro ...

Emma comes from the MBA Admissions Office at Columbia Business School (CBS), where she was Associate Director.  Emma conducted dozens of interviews each cycle for the MBA and EMBA programs, as well as coordinating the alumni ambassador interview program. She read and evaluated hundreds of applications each cycle, delivered information sessions to audiences across the globe, and advised countless waitlisted applicants.

SBC’s star-studded consultant team is unparalleled. Our clients benefit from current intelligence that we receive from the former MBA Admissions Officers from LBS, Columbia CBS and every elite business program in the US and Europe.  These MBA Admissions Officers have chosen to work exclusively with SBC.

Meet Susan , just one of the many superstars on the SBC team. Susan was the Director of Recruitment and Admissions at London Business School LBS and also the Director of the Executive MBA program at Columbia Business School CBS.

Tap into this inside knowledge for your MBA applications by requesting a consultation .

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Application Advice: How to Approach the Booth Essay

Starting your application here are five questions to ask yourself before drafting your essay..

• By EW Admissions FT Admissions
• July 16, 2024
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Alumni and students routinely describe applying to Chicago Booth as a life-changing decision. This is why we encourage candidates to use our application not only as a means of gaining admission, but also as an opportunity for self-reflection and to prepare for this exciting next step. One of the best ways to communicate your MBA motivations and connection to Booth is through the essay portion of the application. The essay prompts for this cycle are as follows:

Part-Time MBA Program:

• Why are you seeking an MBA from Chicago Booth, and why is Chicago Booth's Evening MBA or Weekend MBA your program of choice? (maximum 400 words)
• Optional Essay: If there is any important information relevant to your candidacy you were unable to address elsewhere in the application, please share that information here. (maximum 500 words)

Full-Time MBA Program:

• How will the Booth MBA help you achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA career goals? (250-word minimum)
• An MBA is as much about personal growth as it is about professional development. In addition to sharing your experience and goals in terms of career, we’d like to learn more about you outside of work. Use this opportunity to tell us something about who you are. (250-word minimum)

Before starting your application and writing your essay, here are five questions we suggest you ask yourself:

• What inspired me to pursue an MBA? Take time to reflect on your personal and professional experiences, relationships, and goals. Did you know you wanted to pursue an MBA during your prior educational training? Is there a family member, friend, mentor, or professional colleague who influenced you to pursue an MBA? Are you looking to better understand your industry, develop leadership skills, or improve your career? There is no right or wrong answer, we just want to understand why an MBA is important to you at this stage in your life.
• What do I hope to accomplish professionally? There are innumerable ways our students and graduates use an MBA to transform their careers. Whether it's a job promotion or a career pivot, a Chicago Booth MBA will open doors that can change the trajectory of your career and influence your professional goals. Have a clear plan for what immediate and future success might look like for you. Take time to assess where you’ve been, where you are now, and where you want to be. Think deeply about how a Booth MBA can fill any gaps and help get you there.
• How will I apply what I learn in and out of the classroom to my current or future role? The Chicago Booth MBA experience will provide you with the space to learn frameworks you can directly apply to your current role (for Part-Time students) or future role (for Full-Time students). The skills you develop at Booth continue to be one of the biggest returns on investment Booth students rave about. With the instant impact a Booth MBA can have on your career, we encourage you to be clear about the MBA experiences, resources, and relationships that will help you meet your desired career goals.
• How will the collaborative culture at Booth be a part of my experience? Boothies are well-known to help one another. Whether it's through referrals for new opportunities, collaboration on group projects, or providing the confidence to embrace new challenges, support is at the heart of our culture. Consider how you can give back to the community by leveraging your unique strengths and skills to contribute and help others, ultimately creating a cycle of support that extends well beyond graduation. Let us know how these values resonate with the MBA experience you seek.
• How can I show my true self? Be honest. Share your experiences, thoughts, and emotions truthfully. Admissions directors appreciate authenticity and value your unique perspective. The optional essay provides a great platform to reflect on your personal experiences, challenges you've faced, and how they've influenced your growth.

Whenever you decide to apply, we wish you the best of luck! Looking for more application tips? Check out more application advice  from Boothies and Admissions. We’re also hosting events ( Full-Time ; Part-Time ) throughout the summer, where you can get your questions answered in real time. We wish you the best of luck with your application!

Start Your Application Journey Today

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Top Tips To Nail The New Harvard MBA Essays

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For the first time in over a decade, Harvard Business School updated its application essay requirement for the Class of 2027. Given its pinnacle position as the world’s most coveted MBA program, the change naturally generated tremendous buzz in admissions circles. SBC consultant Yvette recently joined co-host Chandler Arnold to offer her expert insights on approaching the first of these new Harvard MBA essays. Today’s post covers the top notes of Chandler and Yvette’s in-depth conversation on B-Schooled about the first new HBS essay question . 

Before jumping in, remember there’s no “silver bullet” or one right way to answer any of these questions. A great approach for one applicant might not work for another, so you should do what feels authentic. Let’s look at the first of the new Harvard MBA essays.

Business-Minded Essay: Please reflect on how your experiences have influenced your career choices and aspirations and the impact you will have on the businesses, organizations, and communities you plan to serve. (up to 300 words)

Big picture, applicants should ensure that they develop and showcase two essential skills in their essays, says SBC consultant Yvette. The first is communication, and the second is creating compelling content. You’re articulating a thoughtful story and vision in a way that convinces the admissions team of your leadership potential. As you take stock of your journey, think about where you’ve been and where you’re going. Also, think through what you’ve learned in the process that has guided you along the way. 

Many applicants find it helpful to deconstruct the question and consider how to put it back together. For example, the first component is “experiences that influence.” The second is making connections between past career choices that tell the story of a journey. HBS admissions has explicitly said this question change allows applicants to tell more about their journey. Third, state visionary goals and connect them to that influence. And finally, consider how your goals will impact those you serve.

The Four Pillars

• Experiences that have influenced me
• Connection to career choices
• Connection to goals
• How those goals impact the people I serve

It is daunting to do all of this in 300 words or less. One way to approach it is to write a paragraph for each and then see how that flows. While the essay question doesn’t come right out and ask about your goals, it does ask you to talk about your experiences and how they have influenced your choices and aspirations. What that’s really saying is, what have you learned from these experiences? How has this altered the way you look at the world and the impact you want to have professionally? Goals are a shorthand way of saying all that.

Experiences That Have Influenced You

These are deeply personal and could be anything from formative childhood experiences to professional challenges. Consider where and how you grew up. Who impacted you? Identify experiences that changed you in a way that influenced your later decisions and choices. These experiences have the power to transform your future.

A smart tactic is to use the wording from the question in your answer. HBS asks for an experience that influenced you, so directly use that same language. For example, “My experience growing up in Texas influenced me to….”. Then, you want to tell a powerful story by going beyond that initial context.

“It’s not just the fact that you want to share,” SBC consultant Chandler explains. “It’s how that situation changed the way you thought, opened your mind, challenged conventions, or forced you to think differently.” How did you grow in that context, or how did that experience shape how you think about the world?

Avoiding Common Pitfalls In The Harvard MBA Essays

When answering this question, two common pitfalls are assuming your personal story isn’t as interesting as others or assuming your story is infinitely fascinating. “Remember, these admissions officers are reading thousands of essays and might spend 15 minutes on your entire application,” Chandler explains. “So, choose situations and stories and examples that stand out.”

“When that admissions officer is making dinner that night, you want yours to be the story they can’t stop thinking about,” he adds. You want to inspire them with your unique perspective  and experiences.

For example, many MBA applicants are applying from a consulting background. But if the first sentence of your essay is, “On my first consulting project, I felt overwhelmed,” that’s not a unique experience. There could be hundreds or even thousands of people who have felt that way.

We’re not saying that you can’t write about that experience—just that if you choose to do so, make it memorable. You might say, “Look, there are probably thousands of people talking about an overwhelming experience as a first-year consultant. But here’s why my takeaway was especially informative.” Keeping that context in mind is crucial.

Connecting Experiences To Career Choices

Once you’ve described the life experience that influenced you to believe or feel a certain way, use the second paragraph to connect it to your career choices. Yvette advises taking stock of the intentional steps in your career and realizing that some might be more informed than others.

For example, you might write, “I went into consulting because of X, and then while in consulting, I shifted into strategy because of Y.” Show how you did so intentionally because of that early life influence you described in the first paragraph. Your shift could be functional, from one role to the other. Or it could be the types of projects you cover. You may have changed companies from one that was technical, such as an engineering firm, to a broader, more business strategy-oriented consulting role.

“It could even be a shift in your approach,” says Chandler. “Maybe you stayed at the same company, in the same industry, in the same role, but you approach that work differently now. There’s that journey element of how your thinking evolved and how you grew as a person.”

Share The Vision Behind The Goals

Your next task for paragraph three is articulating your future goals. “It’s important to share the vision behind those goals,” Yvette explains. “It might be to be a partner at a consulting firm or to start your own company. But there is usually a vision behind that of something you want to change or impact. It’s important to inject that into the essay because that allows you to connect it to that early influence.”

Not everyone’s goals must be altruistic, of course. Founding a non-profit isn’t the only way to convey that you want to do good. Instead of trying to see everything through a non-profit lens, recognize that every business can positively or negatively impact customers, employees, communities, or the environment.

Also, unlike many other business schools, Harvard doesn’t ask a “Why HBS?” essay. They know why MBA hopefuls are targeting this prestigious program.  “Harvard doesn’t need you to tell it how amazing it is,” Yvette says. “Harvard wants to hear about your experiences, learning, growth, goals, or what you will bring to the HBS experience. But they don’t need to be reminded how amazing their professors are.”

Impact On Others

Paragraph four is where you focus on your impact on others. “When you think about impact, you want to picture yourself as the middle cog to a lot of different stakeholders around you,” Yvette explains. Those could be employees, investors, the environment, customers, or the world at large.

Consider a couple of stakeholders and describe the concrete impact you’ll have on them because you plan to lead differently or your organization has goals beyond the bottom line.

Notice the wording in this essay. HBS is asking about those you serve —not lead. They’re asking you to see yourself as a leader who impacts people around you by your choices in how you lead. We’re all passionate about impact, but give it your own flavor.

Be specific and describe the vehicle as well as the impact. So, if the impact is to have cleaner oceans, what methods will you use to deliver on that? What solutions will you try and test while you’re in the MBA and networking with all those other outstanding professionals?

Draft And Edit, On Repeat

As we wrap up this overview, we know that applicants everywhere are asking, “How in the world do we do all of that in 300 words?!” While the result needs to meet that word count, realize that your initial drafts of this essay might be 900-1,000 words. You’ll explore many ideas as you jot down everything you want to say. Then you iterate, iterate, iterate. You work on narrowing your focus and making the narrative tighter until you have a cohesive essay response.

In conclusion, tackling the new Harvard MBA essays requires thoughtful reflection, strategic storytelling, and careful editing. You can create a compelling narrative that resonates with the admissions team by highlighting your unique experiences, intentional career choices, visionary goals, and the broader impact you aim to have. Authenticity is critical—showcase your true self and how you plan to lead and serve others. 

Stacy Blackman Consulting’s B-Schooled Podcast is hosted by Erika Olson, Harvard MBA, and Chandler Arnold, Stanford GSB MBA. B-Schooled now has more than a quarter million downloads and 200+ episodes.  Search and sort through our 200 B-Schooled podcasts . 

Questions about this article? Email us or leave a comment below.

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The London Business School Interview – What to Expect + Sample Questions

Oct 2, 2023

UPDATE : This article was originally posted on October 30, 2019. It has been updated with new information and tips below. 

Located in one of the world’s most important business centers, London Business School offers a truly unique MBA experience. With the option to complete the course in just 15 months and a class that includes 67 different nationalities, London Business School is at the top of the list for many globally-minded professionals. 

With a government program that allows graduates of UK programs to stay on a work visa for 2 years after graduation (similar to the OPT program in the US), meaning that getting a spot at this elite business school is more challenging than ever. 

That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you use your LBS admissions interview to stand out. We’ve rounded up not only our best tips but have also included sample interview questions to ensure you give your LBS application your best shot. 

How the LBS interview works 

As one of the most elite business schools in the world, landing an interview with London Business School is no easy task. 

Thus, if you have passed to the interview phase of the LBS application process, congratulations ! This is already an exceptional achievement. 

LBS interviews, since they are conducted by current students and alumni , tend to be slightly friendlier than interviews conducted by the admissions committee. Nonetheless, the interviewer is still trying to gauge how solid your motivations for wanting to pursue an MBA are, how interested you seem in the LBS program, and if you fit well with the program’s global community.

Interviewers often ask many standard MBA interview questions, as well as questions designed to test how collaborative and globally-minded you truly are. You can also expect numerous follow-up questions. 

Our clients who have interviewed with LBS in the past say that the interviewer was very friendly and demonstrated a genuine interest in their answers . For some clients, questions were far more personal in nature, covering topics like their childhood and family upbringing. Other clients reported their interview was strictly professional, so make sure you’re ready for anything when you interview with LBS. 

Who will interview you?

LBS has a rich tradition of alumni students conducting admissions interviews. As such, the admissions committee will match you with an available alumni interviewer in your area, after which you and the interviewer will make arrangements to meet to conduct the interview. 

If you and your interviewer arrange to conduct your interview virtually, this will not negatively impact your application in any way. 

Will the interviewer have read my application?

Yes. The interviewer will have access to your application before the interview.

Keep in mind, however, that your interviewer will not have seen your video essay responses . 

How long will the LBS interview last?

About 45-60 minutes.

How does the presentation question work?

In addition to the traditional interview questions, you will also be required to answer a presentation question (similar to a case study) during the LBS interview. 

The key to the presentation element of the LBS interview is to see how you think on your feet. You will have around 5 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to present. 

The point of this task is to see if you can present a clear idea and demonstrate good critical thinking abilities, not to get the “right” answer. As such, focus on walking the interviewer through a clear, well-reasoned answer to the prompt. 

Follow-up questions are not common. 

SAMPLE PRESENTATION QUESTIONS

• Telco is a British retailer that is facing limited growth. The CEO has proposed creating a new tablet, the “Hudl”, that will be affordable and target the 75% market in England that does not have tablets. Do you think this is an innovative idea? Should Telco pursue this venture?
• At the Davos conference, the plan to introduce a minimum quota of women in senior management for every company was proposed. Some countries, such as Germany and Denmark, opposed the idea and insisted that support for working women is much more important than introducing minimum quota. What do you think about the plan?
• Suppose you were a board member of the LVMH conglomerate. LVMH has taken a majority of shares of a family company, Hermès. Hermès’ people were unhappy about this acquisition because it was unfriendly and it could potentially damage the brand. How would you persuade Hermès’ people to proceed? 
• Assume you have taken over Nokia as CEO. Following the major sale to Microsoft, what steps would you take to ensure the company’s profitability and future survival?
• Given its business of mining over 5 million tons of rock a day, Rio Tinto has a big footprint. The mines are expensive, take decades to fully develop, and are not portable if something goes wrong. To reduce the political and economic risk and thus ensure steady returns, Rio Tinto has sought to win the backing of local communities, governments, and the societies in which it operates to ensure they can maintain long–term operations at chosen sites. How would you suggest senior leadership obtain the support of the community? 
• How could the Entrepreneurship Club at LBS help a tech company to increase its product perception/brand awareness/client satisfaction? 
• In the modern world, large multinational companies often start up branches overseas to increase profits and market share. You currently work for Audi, which is thinking about opening a plant in Mexico to take advantage of the country’s free trade agreement with the European Union. However, the company is concerned that it will face language barriers and cultural differences that will make it difficult to operate in the country. Would you suggest they open in Mexico or not?

Who is LBS looking for?

“We nurture our students to challenge the status quo, to question the norm and to develop the skills to become the world’s best business leaders. Over the years we have adopted a truly global outlook tackling challenges faced by international businesses and their leaders.” London Business School Admissions

Every year, London Business School searches the globe for outstanding professionals to join its annual class of around 500 students. With a strong emphasis on diversity and a global mindset (74 nationalities are represented in the Class of 2024 ), there is no “typical” LBS student, yet the average admitted student does tend to have 5 years of work experience and a 708 GMAT score . 

Beyond the impressive statistics, though, LBS offers its students the chance to prepare themselves to lead in an increasingly globalized world.  

So, if this sounds like a community in which you’d be right at home, you’ll have to think of the ways in which you align with the main characteristics of LBS’s students. This means forming your business school brand and then focusing on the aspects of that brand that align with changing the status quo, collaborative leadership, and a value for internationalism and diversity. 

How can you prepare for your interview?

Though no interview is 100% predictable, LBS interviews do tend to center around a fairly standard list of MBA interview questions. As such, we have prepared some model questions below that previous candidates have received in their past LBS interviews. 

Sample LBS Interview Questions

The questions below are drawn from our clients’ interview reports, as well as from sites like clearadmit.com . Though these are not all the potential questions you could possibly receive during your LBS interview, preparing for these (and any follow-up questions you think you might be asked) should give you a very solid foundation for your interview. 

STARTING UP

• Expect follow-up questions based on resume content, like why did you choose to work at your current firm? Why did you choose your major?
• Could you describe what you do outside of work?

GOALS/WHY LBS

• What are your short-term career goals? Long term? 
• You already have great XX experience to reach your goals. Why do you need an MBA?
• What is your plan B in case you’re not able to achieve your goals?
• What triggered you to start thinking about an MBA?
• Why LBS? How is LBS different from the other schools you applied to?
• What are your criteria for selecting B-schools? Where did you apply? 
• How will you contribute to LBS?
• What do you plan to get involved in outside of class?

BEHAVIOR/SELF-ASSESSMENT

• What part of your childhood has influenced your life?
• When was the last time you took a risk?
• What type of personality do you have?
• How would your colleagues describe you?
• What will be your development after arriving at LBS?
• What is the toughest decision you have made in your life?
• What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
• What is your most significant achievement?
• What are the key factors to your success? 
• Please give me an example of an experience you have had working with people from different cultures. 
• What are some of the different approaches to work you have seen in other cultures?
• What barriers can cultural differences present to groups trying to work together? In your opinion, what is the best way to resolve this challenge?
• Please tell me your definition of leadership. What kind of leadership have you experienced?
• How would you define your leadership style?
• Describe a situation where you led a project. What were your strengths and weaknesses?
• What is the difference between a born leader and a manager? Who do you admire as a leader?
• What characteristics should a successful business leader have?
• Tell me about a time you resolved conflict as a leader. 
• Imagine that some people in your study group are not contributing enough. What would you do next? How would you handle it? 
• What role do you typically take within a team?
• What are the most common reasons teams fail?
• Tell me about a time you worked on a team that didn’t get along.
• Please tell me about a time when you worked with diversity and inclusion. 
• Tell me about a time you didn’t get along with your boss or with a teammate. How did you handle the situation? 

MISC. BEHAVIORAL

• Describe a situation where you initiated changes. How did you go about this?
• When working on a project, how can you tell if things are working well? What do you do if they are not?
• Describe a situation where you moved to a new environment and how you handled it. 
• What are you most proud of? Why?
• Is there anything else you would like LBS to know about you? / Is there anything you wish I had asked you?
• Questions for me?

We have found that answering real interview questions on the spot is a much better means of preparation than reading lists of interview questions for most candidates.

We highly suggest you take a look at mock interview questions and sample interview responses before your interview . 

Our MBA Resource Center has dozens of real interview mocks from LBS, as well as detailed guides to help you prepare for questions ranging from “Why our MBA program?” to “Tell us about a time you failed.”

The Ellin Lolis Consulting MBA Resource Center is your one-stop shop to interview success. Click to join!

If you’re still not quite confident with your interview skills, our interview experts can help you craft your answers or prepare you for the LBS interview through mock interviews tailored to your profile. 

What to do if you get a question you weren’t prepared for

Despite your most diligent preparation, you will almost always receive a question you had not prepared. 

First, stay calm and take a deep breath. You have already made it this far in the process, and one question will not trip you up!

Second, make sure you directly answer the question the interviewer asked you. For example, if the interviewer asks you about a time you had to deal with a difficult manager, make sure to tell a story about a difficult manager and how you handled the situation. 

If you’re having trouble thinking of an answer or an example to support your answer , however, take a drink of water to give yourself a few more minutes to think. If you really can’t think of an example from your personal or professional experience, you can use a hypothetical answer about how you would act in a certain situation. 

Finally, assume that the interviewer is testing how you think on your feet and respond to questions you didn’t prepare in advance . Though your answer might not be as polished as if you’d had weeks to rehearse it, smile and confidently give your answer to show you can respond to any question they throw at you. 

Effectively Tell your Story During your LBS Interview

One of the most common mistakes we see in MBA interviews is that candidates fail to tell compelling, well-constructed stories about their profiles while also nailing the basics. 

Striking this balance between sharing STAR-format examples that show off your background while also presenting strong answers to questions like “Why do you want an MBA?” is a challenging task that requires significant thought and preparation. 

Because of this, it’s no surprise that, on average, 50% of interviewed applicants walk away without an offer .   

This is why our interview preparation process here at Ellin Lolis Consulting is known as the best in the industry. We offer customized 1:1 support that ensures you’re able to turn your application’s strengths into compelling answers that show fit and sell your profile in any type of interview. 

Forget simulation platforms or long lists of tips – our 1:1 preparation focuses on playing to your strengths and overcoming your weaknesses to turn you into an interview expert . Hire our interview services here. VIP packages that allow you to work directly with Ellin sell out quickly, so make sure you sign up today !

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What are the entry requirements for an mba.

What are the MBA entry requirements you need to get into business school? ©krblokhin | Imperial campus

Are you MBA material? Here's a breakdown of the key MBA entry requirements

Mon Sep 20 2021

Luckily, whether you’re applying for a full-time MBA, an online or part-time MBA, or an Executive MBA program, the requirements are similar.

The main difference is you’ll likely need a lot more career experience to successfully apply for an Executive MBA, and one-year MBA programs in the US might require you to already have a business background.

What are the entry requirements for an MBA?

In brief, the typical MBA requirements are:

• Work experience (MBA: 2-3 years; EMBA: 5+ years)
• Bachelor’s degree

Recommendation letters

• Proof of English proficiency (e.g. TOEFL)

In our BusinessBecause MBA Application Guide 2024 , we guide you through the key components of a successful MBA application, with exclusive insights and application tips from leading business school admissions experts.

We also list the latest full-time MBA application deadlines for the world’s top business schools.

Here’s an overview of the key MBA requirements from our guide:

Work Experience

Work experience is one of the MBA entry requirements that varies across program types. There are some MBA programs that are applicable to candidates with little or no work experience, but most will ask you for at least a few years of experience to meet their MBA eligibility criteria.

Full-time MBA programs typically require 2-3 years of work experience.

If you’re applying for an Executive MBA program, you’ll be required by most schools to have a strong level of work experience, usually more than 5 years. Students in the London Business School Executive MBA classroom have an average of 13 years of work experience.  

Online MBA programs vary, with some programs requiring students to have only two years of work experience, and others up to six, according to the BusinessBecause Online MBA Guide 2024 . 

Bachelor's Degree

Business schools require you to submit a copy of your undergraduate degree transcripts. Most schools look for a bachelor's degree, or international equivalent, from a recognized university.

However, this does not have to be specifically focused on business. Many schools are open to and actively encourage applicants from non-traditional MBA backgrounds.

While there is rarely a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) requirement for MBA admissions, you should look at the average GPA and GPA range for the MBA class you’re applying to and assess your chances.

The GMAT is the leading standardized admission test for business schools. It tests your verbal and quantitative skills and measures your suitability for an MBA.

The GMAT test is computer-adaptive, which means it gets easier or harder as you answer the questions, depending on whether you get an answer right or wrong. Scores range from 205 to 805.

When you’re trying to figure out what is a good GMAT score , the best thing to do is research the average GMAT score at your target schools. The GMAT score range will also give you an indicator of whether you fall within the score range of the typical candidate at the school.

Your GMAT score is valid for five years, but if you’re not happy with your first score you can always take the test again. You can take either the test center version of the GMAT or the equivalent GMAT Online exam .

Alternatively, you can take the GRE or another admission test if offered or accepted by your target schools. For Executive MBA programs, you can also sit the Executive Assessment .

You’ll also need to upload your CV. But just like a job application, to stand out you’ll need to craft a winning MBA resume .

Your starting point should be figuring out what qualities your target schools look for. Then, build your resume around your chosen school’s values and culture.

Your MBA resume should:

→ Avoid industry jargon. Your resume audience is admissions officers, not industry-specific experts.

→ Explain gaps in your work experience.

→ Talk about extracurricular activities. You’ll want to focus on things that demonstrate leadership and teamwork and/or highlight individuality and diversity.

→ Be concise. Most schools prefer one page.

→ Focus on the bigger picture. For each role highlight how you grew in each position, additional projects you took on, promotions or awards you received, and impressive milestones you reached.

Read: MBA Acceptance Rates At The World’s Top Business Schools

©HBS Facebook

Schools will typically ask you for two MBA recommendation letters . Suitable recommenders include:

→ Line manager (current or former)

→ Colleagues you’ve worked with closely on projects

→ Clients or suppliers

→ Someone who’s seen you in a leadership role outside of work

Your letters of recommendation are your chance for your quality to shine through from an outside perspective. Choose people based on how well they can describe your skills and leadership potential, rather than their level of seniority.

Work closely with your recommender, explaining your reasons for pursuing an MBA and your future plans. You should explain the process to them, and how they can tie your key attributes to the attributes your target schools value highly.

Your MBA application essays are your chance to tell business schools your story. You should focus on your personality, experiences, interests, and suitability to your target programs.

Essays are typically centered around your career goals and how a particular school’s MBA program will help you achieve those goals. 

Example essay questions:

Harvard Business School : What more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program?

London Business School : What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School program contribute towards these?

UCLA Anderson : How have recent events influenced the impact you would like to make in your community, career, or both?

HEC Paris : Imagine a life entirely different from the one you now lead, what would it be?

The biggest mistake you can make in your MBA essays is sending a template essay answer to multiple schools.

It is essential to tailor your essay answers to the school you’re applying to. If English isn’t your first language, don’t worry. The essay is less about testing your ability to write in English and more about assessing your fit for the program.

Some schools—including INSEAD, Kellogg, and MIT Sloan—will also ask you to submit a recorded video essay where you must introduce yourself and answer questions out loud.

Proof of English proficiency

An English proficiency test only falls under your MBA entry requirements if you attended an undergraduate institution where the sole language of instruction wasn’t English. You’ll need to sit one of the following English language tests:

→ Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

→ International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

→ Pearson Test of English (PTE)

What's next?

After you’ve submitted your online application, you’ll need to ace the MBA interview to secure your spot on your dream program. This might be face-to-face or via video.

Typical MBA interview questions include:

→ Why an MBA?

→ Why our business school?

→ What are your long-term goals?

→ How will you add value to the MBA program?

The MBA eligibility criteria can seem like a lot. By starting your application and having a clear idea of the various MBA requirements you can stand the best chance of success.

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