Everything You Need to Know About the MBA Application Process

MBA application process


An MBA from a prominent university can take your career to the next level, giving you knowledge and skills in such vital areas as finance, marketing, accounting, management, leadership, and more. But before you can benefit from the degree, you first have to go through the MBA admissions process for the college of your choice.

While certain aspects of the process simply entail gathering existing materials, other elements will require more thought, planning, and organization so you can create the best admission packet possible. Check out our tips for tackling the MBA application process to give yourself the best chance at acceptance.

1. Determine Your Program Format

Before you begin the application process or select a school, you will need to decide on which type of format will work best for your life circumstances. Different universities offer part-time, full-time, and online MBA options, so depending on your availability, your time constraints, and whether you will continue working full time, one option or another may be more appealing to you.

Additionally, some programs, like the one at Kent State, offer specializations students can pursue in areas like:

  • Business analytics
  • Accounting
  • Healthcare administration
  • Digital transformation
  • Finance
  • Human resource management
  • International business
  • Leadership in conflict mediation

As you assess your career goals, look for specializations that are a good fit so you can get the most out of your program.

2. Prepare Your Transcripts

One of the easiest steps for the MBA application process is getting your transcripts in order, since these will be readily available from any institution you have previously studied at. A few aspects to be aware of, however, include:

  • MBAs require an accredited undergraduate degree for admission, so you must have your official transcripts included in any packet
  • You will need a legally translated transcript if the originals are not presented in the English language
  • Having degrees in focuses other than business is not a detriment, as MBA programs often seek out diverse candidates
  • Official transcripts often require a nominal to moderate fee paid to the college or university you acquire them from

3. Consider GPA Requirements

Though having a high GPA is not a sole factor for MBA admission, it does play a part. The median undergraduate GPA for admitted MBA students is 3.4, though obviously there are those who are higher or lower on the 4.0 scale. At Kent State, we require a minimum of 3.000 for MBA students.

Keep in mind that admissions committees will take a holistic view of the work you have completed and your full admissions packet, so a GPA alone is not make or break. However, if you are still within your undergraduate program, know that your junior and senior year grades play a more prominent role. Be sure to focus heavily on your schooling during this time to ensure a stronger GPA, especially in any areas related to math, statistics, and economics.

4. Determine Your GMAT, GRE, and Interview Requirements

Some institutions will require or encourage the taking of the GMAT or GRE exams. The GMAT focuses on quantitative skills while the GRE is broader, covering more topics. 

Similar preparation must be carried out if an in-person interview is required. In such an interview, your interests, communication skills, and values will all be on display, and the admissions committee will be judging if you are a good fit for the program.

Not all schools require these extra steps for students as part of the MBA application process, however. For instance, Kent State’s MBA program does not necessitate taking the GMAT or GRE, and no in-person interview must be given for admittance.

5. Prepare Your Résumé

As you continue the MBA admissions process, you will want to dedicate time to preparing your résumé so that you can present a compelling document that highlights your work experience and leadership abilities. Some key points to consider:

  • Admissions committees often use résumés as a baseline for evaluating a candidate’s academic prowess, professional journey, and accomplishments
  • Be sure to include measurable accomplishments – awards, certifications, promotions, and more – as these will be received more favorably than vague information
  • Many programs look for between two to five years of professional experience
  • Tailor your résumé to match the values and ideology of the school you are applying to as much as possible, using key terms that will reflect your alignment with program goals

6. Write a Goal Statement

Along with your résumé, you will want to write a goal statement or personal essay that can connect with your admissions committee and give them insights into your personality, background, career goals, and enthusiasm for the program. You can focus on aspects like:

  • Your short-term and long-term career goals and how the MBA program will help you achieve them
  • Your reasons for pursuing an MBA and why the school is a good fit
  • The challenges you have overcome and the accomplishments you have accrued
  • How you expect to contribute to the school and the program, and why your skills are well suited for the degree

7. Do Not Neglect Your Letters of Recommendation

Another key component of the MBA application process is securing worthwhile letters of recommendation from current or former professors, supervisors, or bosses. These letters help to display your professional achievements, leadership qualities, and future potential, and they also illustrate the impact you have had on others.

Be sure to choose recommenders who know you well and who can provide specific, detailed examples of your abilities. You will also want to give your recommenders plenty of time so that they do not feel rushed, with 4–6 weeks often being encouraged.

8. Illustrate Your English Language Skills if Necessary

If you are a non-native English speaker, you will need to display your aptitude for the language to gain entry into MBA programs. In fact, one study conducted by GMAC showed that English language proficiency exam results carried at least 50% weight in relation to all other admissions factors for non-native speakers.

Some of the exams you will want to consider taking include TOEFL iBT, IELTS, PTE, and DET.

Our MBA Admissions Process at Kent State

Students interested in joining either our in-person or online MBA program will need to meet the following criteria:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university
  • A minimum 3.000 undergraduate GPA on a 4.000-point scale
  • Completion of two quantitative undergraduate courses (e.g., advanced algebra, statistics) with minimum B grade1
  • Official transcripts
  • Résumé
  • Goal statement
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • English language proficiency – all international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions to waive) by earning one of the following:2
    • Minimum 79 TOEFL iBT score
    • Minimum 6.5 IELTS score
    • Minimum 58 PTE score
    • Minimum 110 DET score

1 In some circumstances, the academic program admissions committee may consider other compelling evidence in their determination.

2  International applicants who do not meet the above test scores may be considered for conditional admission.

The online program, features rolling admissions for fall, spring, and summer semesters.

Ready to Get Started? Contact Us

At Kent State, we strive to make the MBA application process a fair, thorough, and reasonable one. We hope this guide has helped you to better understand how to approach your application, but we are always on hand to assist and answer any questions.

Be sure to contact our team if you need help, or apply today if you are ready to get started with your MBA. We look forward to hearing from you.

 

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