Earning an online Master of Business Administration degree is an investment in professional development that allows graduates to lead teams, take on greater responsibilities or shift into new or more advanced professional roles. Applying to an MBA program requires several steps, but organized preparation makes this process manageable.
MBA programs vary in their specific requirements, and many now employ streamlined requirements that accommodate the schedules of working professionals and offer enhanced accessibility to graduate-level education. Learn what to expect from the MBA application process and how Arkansas State University’s online MBA programs reduce barriers to admission with straightforward applications and flexible but rigorous coursework.
Understanding MBA Application Requirements
MBA programs maintain specific admission requirements that help admissions committees evaluate applicants’ readiness for graduate-level business study. Applicants typically submit the required materials through the university’s online application portal, along with an application fee and personal information. Common MBA application requirements include:
- Bachelor‘s degree: An undergraduate degree is generally a prerequisite for graduate-level study. Many programs require students to hold degrees from accredited institutions with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 to ensure that their prior coursework meets the academic standards for graduate studies. While many MBA applicants hold degrees in business, economics or related fields, MBA programs accept students from a wide range of educational backgrounds.
- Standardized test scores: Some MBA programs request GMAT and GRE test scores to gauge applicants’ readiness for graduate studies, and prospective applicants often prepare for these tests for months. The Executive Assessment is a shorter alternative for experienced professionals that evaluates similar competencies. A-State’s online MBA program does not require these test scores.
- Official transcripts: Transcripts include information about courses completed, grades earned and cumulative GPA. Programs require sealed transcripts to be sent directly to admissions from the granting institution to ensure authenticity.
- Professional resume: Admissions require resumes to assess applicants’ educational and professional history and how their experiences align with the MBA program objectives.
- Application essays or personal statements: Though not always required, essays help schools evaluate applicants’ goals, leadership capabilities and compatibility with MBA programs. A-State allows individuals with cumulative GPAs lower than 2.5 to apply if they also submit a statement of purpose with their application.
- Letters of recommendation: Recommendations provide third-party evidence of performance and Most programs request letters from supervisors, colleagues or professors who can speak to specific accomplishments and potential.
- Application fee: Many universities charge a small, non-refundable application fee to cover administrative costs. Some applicants may qualify for fee waivers, based on financial need.
- TOEFL/IELTS scores: Applicants whose first language is not English may be required to submit standardized English proficiency scores, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Programs may waive this requirement if an applicant earned a prior degree taught entirely in English.
Creating a Competitive MBA Resume
An MBA application resume differs from a typical job-specific resume, as it aims to demonstrate academic readiness and professional potential rather than merely satisfying job description requirements. Admissions use resumes to gain an understanding of an applicant’s professional journey and achievements and to assess the depth, breadth and relevance of their professional experience.
MBA programs may require applicants to have a minimum amount of professional experience, usually one to two years in a relevant setting. Resumes should be concise, ideally one page or no more than two. An effective MBA resume usually includes:
- Objective or summary
- Professional experience
- Education
- Technical skills
- Soft skills
- Achievements or awards
Resumes show readiness for the demands of graduate study and business leadership competencies. Content should include action verbs and quantifiable outcomes that describe impacts and demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills, as well as professional references to verify work experience. Update your resume early in the application process to allow time for revision and refinement.
Writing Strong MBA Application Essays
Many MBA programs require applicants to submit essays, sometimes with video components. These written or video responses provide admissions with greater insights into the actual applicant, not just their resume or transcripts. Common prompts ask applicants to discuss topics such as:
- Career goals
- Purpose for pursuing an MBA
- Past examples of leadership
- Personal background or experiences
Word counts for MBA application essays range from 250 to 500 words, and precise examples offer greater value than broad, generalized statements. Applicants often draw on experiences from their work, education, personal life or community to write an essay that authentically showcases their personality and values.
Begin your application essay early to allow for ample time to revise and refine it. Seek feedback from supervisors, mentors or other trusted peers, but maintain an authentic voice.
Securing Effective Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation validate an applicant’s qualifications through the perspective of professionals who can attest to them. Most MBA programs require one or two letters of recommendation from current or former supervisors who can discuss the candidate’s performance and leadership potential.
Depth of knowledge and insight is more important than the job title for writing a letter of recommendation. Compared to an executive who may have limited contact with the applicant, for example, a direct supervisor, former manager or project lead who worked closely with you, can provide more specific and reliable examples of your achievements and skills.
Consider who you may request to write your letters of recommendation early and contact potential recommenders at least four to six weeks before submission deadlines. Providing background information, such as a current resume, summary of career goals and projects to highlight, helps recommenders write personalized letters. Communicate deadlines with your recommenders and follow up politely to keep your submissions on schedule.
MBA Application Timeline and Deadlines
Most MBA programs offer multiple application rounds each year, with earlier rounds improving the likelihood of acceptance and scholarship opportunities. Following a structured timeline over about 12 months helps applicants stay organized and submit each requirement without unnecessary stress.
- Six to 12 months out: Research MBA programs, compare admission requirements and start preparing for GMAT or GRE tests if required.
- Four to six months out: Take the GMAT, GRE or Executive Assessment if your program requires it or to strengthen your application. GMAT and GRE scores are valid for five years.
- Two to four months out: Request recommendation letters and update your resume. Draft essays and complete ongoing revisions based on feedback.
- Two months or less out: Complete the online application, upload your resume, order official transcripts, pay application fees and submit before the deadline. Some programs release interview invitations after an initial review.
Preparing for the MBA Application Interview
MBA programs may admit applicants without an interview, but many also conduct interviews by invitation after an initial review of the application. Depending on the institution and program, an interview invitation indicates a strong interest in the applicant but does not necessarily guarantee acceptance.
MBA application interview formats vary, but they generally last 30 to 45 minutes and focus on your resume, professional background and goals. Interviewers, usually admissions staff or alumni, use these interviews to evaluate leadership, communication and collaboration, as well as professional qualifications, to determine program fit and readiness.
Review your application thoroughly before your scheduled interview so you can respond to questions confidently and thoughtfully. Prepare specific examples that show leadership, teamwork, conflict navigation and decision-making in relevant contexts to demonstrate program fit. Bringing your own questions to ask at the end of the interview also shows your independent research. It offers opportunities to clarify program details, such as curriculum structure, faculty expertise and learning outcomes.
Strengthen Your Business and Leadership Skills With A-State’s Online MBA Programs
Applying to an MBA program requires organization and diligence, but the process is straightforward when approached in a step-by-step manner. Planning ahead for test preparation, resume updates, letters of recommendations and other application requirements keeps you on track with submission deadlines and helps you optimize your application.
Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), A-State’s online MBA programs equip students with the skills, knowledge and credentials organizations seek. With no GRE or GMAT required and no need to provide personal statements or letters of recommendation, the admissions process is accessible and streamlined. Discover more about A-State’s online MBA programs and begin your journey to career advancement.