Tips for Applying To Olin Business School

Washington University’s Olin Business School ranked number 1 in Poets&Quants’ 2021 ranking of the World’s Best MBA Programs for Entrepreneurship.

With an acceptance rate of 33%, Olin is selective about who it admits. Business Insider recently spoke to admissions experts about what it takes to get into Olin and what the MBA program’s admissions office looks for in applicants.

BE VULNERABLE

Being vulnerable, while uncomfortable, is valued at Olin. Experts recommend applicants to highlight their personal stories of overcoming obstacles in their essays.

“At Olin, we really appreciate the vulnerability that can come out during the application process,” Ruthie Pyles, associate dean of graduate enrollment management at Olin, tells Business Insider. “Students who have shared ‘memorable moments’ — opportunities, failures, uncertainty, strengths, potential, achievements, questions, concerns — are always well received.”

CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY

When it comes down to it, fit is one of the most important aspects that admissions officers look for in candidates.

“The Olin community is a strong close-knit community that is values-based and collaborative,” Franklyn Nnakwue, who graduated from Olin’s full-time MBA program in May 2020, tells Business Insider.

Nnakwue recommends that applicants connect with current Olin students and alumni to learn more about the culture and community.

“I interacted with current students who shared their experience with me,” Nnakwue tells Business Insider. “I also spent time reading about Olin and the experience of other students. That gave me the insights to accurately convey how I could be a good fit to the admissions team.”

DEMONSTRATE YOUR POTENTIAL

Olin seeks out leaders. To be considered for admission, you’ll want to highlight leadership traits and characteristics that you can bring to the Olin community.

“They value diversity, global competency, and perception and consistently seek feedback,” Pyles tells Business Insider. “They push boundaries in innovation, they accept risk, and they seek leadership opportunities.”

Sources: Business Insider, P&Q