How Do I Begin Applying for an MBA Program?
Once you have made the decision to pursue an online MBA, the next step is application to the programs of your choice. Applying for an MBA can be a lengthy and complicated process. There are usually many requirements that must be met in order to qualify for an MBA program, and there are many steps to the application process. It is always best to stay organized and have a clear picture of everything that needs to be done in order to get applications in on time.
The first thing to do is go the websites of schools with MBA programs to which you would like to apply. Before you ever start the application process, take a look at the acceptance requirements for the MBA program to make sure you will qualify. Many schools have a minimum undergraduate GPA that is required of all applicants. To apply for an MBA with Phoenix University, at Phoenix.edu, you need a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. Each school has it’s own requirements, and minimum requirements can range from a GPA of 2.0 to 3.0, or higher. Many MBA programs also have a work experience requirement. The University of Phoenix requires at least three years of work experience to apply for an MBA. Schools usually also have standardized test score requirements for the GMAT and GRE, and each school is different as far as which test they require and what scores they accept. Make sure that you meet all the necessary requirements before you take the time to go through the application process. Sometimes many schools will bend requirements a bit for students who show exceptional promise, so if you know you will not meet one or more of a university’s admission requirements, make plans to speak with an admissions representative and talk about your options.
After you have made sure that you meet minimum requirements to apply for the MBA program, the next step is to take a look at the application procedures outlined on the school website. Take some time to thoroughly go over all the steps for application. Try downloading or printing out the admission application so you have a guideline for what needs to be done. It is a good idea to make a list of everything that must be completed and then tackle the most pressing tasks first.
One of the most important steps to prioritize in applying for an MBA is getting your documentation in order. There are many required documents that must be sent to your prospective schools. First, if you haven’t taken the required standardized tests, make plans to do that. Most MBA programs require applicants to submit GMAT or GRE scores, and sometimes both. Locate your nearest testing center and make plans to take any necessary tests as soon as possible. If you have already taken the required tests, contact the testing agency to have your scores sent to your schools. You can usually do this by phone or email.
Next, make arrangements to have your transcripts sent to your prospective schools. Most MBA programs require transcripts from every undergraduate institution you have ever attended, so make sure to request transcripts from any school from which you have received college credit. Simply call the university Registrar Office or go to the school website in order to request transcripts. You can either send them to your own address to be mailed along with your other application materials or have them sent directly to your prospective MBA schools. Get your transcripts sent as soon as possible, just in case there are any problems.
You will also need to contact people in order to ask for letters of recommendation. Think about any superior which whom you have worked or studied and had a good relationship. It is best to choose people with whom you have worked closely, either academically or professionally, and who can thoroughly attest to your ability to excel in an MBA program. Either call or email your contacts and let them know that you would like to apply for an MBA. Ask them politely if they have time to write a recommendation letter on your behalf. Most schools require one to three recommendation letters. For instance, in order to apply for and MBA with Penn State Online, students must submit two letters of recommendation. Make sure to get in touch with your contacts as soon as possible, just in case someone does not have time. Have them send the recommendation letters, signed and on official letterhead, directly to you.
The last bit of documentation you will need to have before you begin your application is your resume. Almost all MBA programs require a resume to apply, so it is best to get it done before you are scrambling at the last minute. In fact, creating a specific resume to apply for an MBA will help you in all the next steps of application. You will have a concrete list of your academic and work experience that you can refer back to. You will also have worked to make your best qualities shine on the resume and will be able to more clearly complete your application and write your statement of purpose.
Once you have your documentation in order, it is time to start your application. Go to the school website and create a profile to begin an online application. You application will be the main source of information for the admissions committee and is one of the most important steps in applying for an MBA. The application will include academic history, work history, and other personal information that is relevant to the committee. As part of the application, most MBA programs also require applicants to write an essay, or statement of purpose. This is every applicants’ chance to show the admissions department a bit of their personality, outline their career goals, and demonstrate their writing abilities. It is a good idea to have a clear idea about what you would like to convey in your statement of purpose. This is your chance to tell the admissions committee why you want to apply for an MBA, why you know you are ready to take that step, and how you want to use your education in the future, so really take the time to be clear and make yourself shine.
Once you have completed all the application materials. Check to see that your transcripts and test scores have been sent to your prospective schools. Double check to see that you have completed all the required steps for application and have a friend look over your application materials, resume and personal statement for spelling and grammar errors. Once you are sure that you have everything you need, send it all in and take a huge sigh of relief! It is true that applying for an MBA can be a grueling process, but with a little planning and diligence, the end result will surely be worth the effort.
