How to Demonstrate Fit in Your MBA Application

One of the most important factors that MBA admissions officers consider in applicants is school fit. Admissions officers typically like to see how an applicant will contribute to the school’s culture, community, and overall learning experience.

Stacy Blackman, founder of Stacy Blackman Consulting, recently discussed how applicants should demonstrate fit and show how they’ll contribute to a B-school community.

HIGHLIGHT YOUR UNIQUE STRENGTHS AND PASSIONS

Blackman suggests applicants to first determine what their unique strengths and passions are. In other words, take some time to reflect on what makes you stand out as a candidate.

“How can you leverage your skills, knowledge, and experiences to contribute to the program?” Blackman says. “Consider your personal and professional goals, values, and interests. Think about how they align with the school’s vision and culture. Highlight achievements demonstrating your leadership, teamwork, creativity, resilience, and other relevant qualities that can benefit the school.”

DO RESEARCH ON SCHOOLS

When putting together business school applications, you’ll want to make sure each application is personalized to a specific school. Thus, it’s critical to do research on what makes each school stand out.

“If you have laser-focused career goals, consider business schools that offer a concentration in your area of interest,” Blackman says. “You might also prefer a school with a more versatile curriculum from the beginning that you can really tailor to your needs.”

Then, you’ll want to cater your MBA application to align to the B-school’s specific opportunities.

“When preparing your MBA application, tailor your resume, essays, recommendations, and other materials to the specific business school and its programs,” Blackman says. “Show how your background and goals align with the school’s mission and values. Also, highlight how you plan to contribute to its community and learning environment.”

DEMONSTRATE YOUR POTENTIAL BEYOND GRADUATION

Business schools aren’t just interested in what students can contribute while on campus, but also post-graduation as well. Many B-schools consider an MBA education to be a lifelong commitment—a community that lasts well beyond your days as a student.

“Consider volunteering, mentoring, or joining the alum association, and share your plans and ideas with the admissions committee,” Blackman says. “By doing so, you can signal your long-term commitment to the MBA program, its mission, and your willingness to contribute to the school’s future success and impact.”

Sources: Stacy Blackman Consulting, Stacy Blackman Consulting, P&Q