How to meet MBA admissions requirements: A step-by-step guide

Applying to a master of business administration (MBA) program may be the first step toward growing your business career. But does your application meet MBA admissions requirements? Meeting all the MBA requirements is necessary to enroll in a program and earn your degree.

In this guide, explore how to meet common MBA requirements, such as a minimum GPA threshold and a request for an updated resume. Discover the importance of curating these materials to improve your chances of being accepted into a program.

What are MBA admissions requirements?

MBA requirements include the information and materials prospective students must submit in their applications. Admissions faculty use these materials to assess your qualifications for the program.

Application requirements often include:

• Undergraduate GPA and transcripts
• Proof of relevant work experience
• Updated resume
• Professional references
• Personal essay responses
• Application fees
• Admissions interviews
• Exam scores

Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree

Most MBA programs require applicants to possess a bachelor's degree. Many MBA students have bachelor's degrees in business fields like accounting, marketing, or tech. However, students can have bachelor's degrees in other disciplines and still gain admission to an MBA program.

Step 2: Gain work experience

Submitting proof of relevant work experience in your application can bolster your chances of acceptance. Whether you've participated in internships or worked for a few years after earning your bachelor's degree, your professional experience proves you can thrive under real-world pressure.

Step 3: Determine each MBA program's specific requirements

Not all MBA programs require the same materials. For instance, each school's essay prompts are unique, and application fees vary. Plus, some institutions may require you to take a graduate admissions exam. Be sure to familiarize yourself with each school's unique requirements before you apply so you can be prepared.

Step 4: Take the GRE or GMAT

Some schools require MBA applicants to take the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). These admissions exams demonstrate your ability to complete a graduate program. Although MBA applicants can take both exams, most MBA programs require the GMAT, per the Princeton Review.

You can send your GMAT results for free to up to five schools and your GRE results to four schools.

Step 5: Write your essays or statements of purpose

Many MBA programs ask you to submit essays or statements of purpose along with your application. Some schools may require students to respond to specific prompts, while others ask applicants to explain their reasons for applying. You can make your essay stand out by outlining your personal experiences and aspirations and showcasing your dedication.

Step 6: Ask for letters of recommendation or professional references

Most MBA programs require at least one letter of recommendation or professional reference in your application package. Consider asking former employers, coworkers, or professors to write letters for you. These connections have firsthand experience with your professional and academic strengths.

Don't forget to include your references' contact information along with their letters.

Step 7: Update your résumé

Submitting the most recent version of your résumé is an excellent way to demonstrate your professional experience. Make sure you include qualitative and quantitative evidence of how your work benefitted your past employers.

Step 8: Collect undergraduate transcripts

A standard MBA requirement, your undergraduate transcripts show you have the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in a graduate program. Some universities can send your undergraduate transcripts directly to your MBA program, while others may send them to you to include in your application package.

Step 9: Send in your application

Although the submission process varies between schools, many have adopted online application portals where you can upload digital documents. You may also have to pay an application fee — often between $50 and $300 — and schedule any necessary in-person interviews at this time.

Requirements for international students

International students may have to meet a few additional requirements set by schools and the US government:

• Student and exchange visitor program schools: Students who come to the US to study must choose federally designated SEVP schools.
• English language proficiency exam: Some programs require students whose prior education wasn't in English to pass a proficiency exam.
• Student visa: Upon acceptance to an MBA program, international students must apply for a student visa through the US Department of State.