Business schools have varying procedures for applying to their MBA programs. There are however, common requirements that almost all admissions committees of business schools look for. These include your academic records, resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and your MBA personal statement. So before you worry endlessly about how to write your MBA personal statement, it would help to have a checklist of the other requirements you need to submit.
Application form
A common tendency among applicants is to dwell too much on their MBA personal statement that they don’t give ample time to fill out the application form properly. Your application form should be neat, and contains clear and complete information. A helpful tip is to photocopy the original form and fill out drafts. Double check the contact details you write so the school will know how and where to get in touch with you.
Resume or Curriculum Vitae
If the school you’re applying to requires a separate CV, make sure it is typewritten and includes concise information about your experiences and achievements. It would also help to include some interesting topics which you can elaborate on in your MBA personal statement or during your interview.
Letters of recommendation
Take time to think about who would be the best reference persons to comment on your character. It helps to get someone with a recognized title in the academe or business industry, but this title would be of no use if your reference person doesn’t even know you. Pick someone who’s had an impact on your life, this can also be a topic you can use in writing your MBA personal statement.
Transcript of records, and test/exam scores
Most schools require applicants to submit their GMAT scores and/or TOEFL, if applicable. Having a low GMAT score won’t necessarily lower your chances for admission, as you can explain and justify this in your MBA personal statement. Print a few copies of your transcript before submitting it, just in case your original copy gets lost.
MBA personal statement
The MBA personal statement is perhaps one of the most important requirements in applying for an MBA. Your MBA personal statement should have a central theme that reflects your career goals, as well as who you are as a student and as an individual. The MBA personal statement is also a chance for you to discuss inconsistencies in your academic and professional records.
Some business schools give specific questions for their MBA personal statement. If this is the case, make sure you answer all the questions given and comply with the set specifications like margins, word limit, etc. Your MBA personal statement should also include your reasons why you chose the specific institution and how you aim to contribute to the school and academic community using your MBA education.
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