Top 15 MBA Interview Questions, According to Experts

Securing an MBA interview is a huge accomplishment—and often it means you’re close to the finish line.

“While some MBA programs interview all applicants, in most cases getting asked to interview is a sign that your application and profile are compelling, and the admissions committee can see a potential place for you in the upcoming class,” Erin Wand, an admissions consultant at mba.com, says.

Preparing for your interview beforehand is key to success. The experts at simplilearn recently compiled a list of the top MBA interview questions that admissions officers use to determine whether or not you are the right fit for their B-school.

“TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF”

This question is usually asked as a conversation starter to better understand your background, experience, and accomplishments. Try to limit your response to two to three minutes and prepare essential talking points beforehand including: Your undergraduate experience and why you chose the major that you did, work experience and accomplishments from the past and present, and your career objectives.

“WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO PURSUE AN MBA?”

With this question, admissions officers are trying to see whether or not you have a well-thought-out approach to your MBA journey. Explaining the “why” is key to answering this question clearly.

“Explain why you want to get a master’s degree in business administration and how it will help you reach your career goals,” according to simplilearn. “Emphasize the precise talents you want to develop and how they relate to the field, job function, or sector you’re interested in. What prompted you to pursue this degree at this time?”

“WHY THIS BUSINESS SCHOOL?”

Nearly every interview will include a “why our school” question. Experts recommend crafting your response in a way that demonstrates your fit with the B-school and its culture and offerings.

“Mention your achievements, emphasize the abilities you’ve developed so far in your career, and explain how your academic and professional experience will benefit others in the program,” according to simplilearn.

It can also be beneficial to highlight direct opportunities at the B-school that align with your goals.

“Tell the admissions committee or interviewer what classes and majors interest you, and why,” Stephanie Horn, an admissions consultant at Admissionado, says. “Show them you have gone beyond the school landing pages to really dig into how you can customize your classes to meet your unique needs and future goals.”

“WHAT WOULD YOUR CO-WORKERS, SUPERVISOR, OR FRIENDS SAY ABOUT YOU?”

This personality question is designed to better understand your professional and personal traits. Experts recommend utilizing points from your letter of recommendation to paint an authentic picture of who you are.

“It’s most likely the person who wrote your letter of recommendation, if they say, supervisor,” according to simplilearn. “As a result, avoid making things up because any inaccuracies may create suspicion.”

TOP 15 MBA INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Tell me something about yourself
2. What motivates you to pursue a graduate business degree?
3. Why do you want to join this business school?
4. Why should we take you in?
5. Discuss your achievements as a leader
6. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
7. What aspects of your current job do you enjoy?
8. What are your immediate and long-term objectives?
9. How would an MBA help you advance in your career?
10. Are you a team player? Describe
11. What would your co-workers, supervisor, or friends say about you?
12. How do you make the most of your resources?
13. Have you applied to any other schools?
14. Describe a period when you had an inept manager and how you dealt with the situation
15. Do you have any concerns or inquiries about the school or program?

Click on the Simplilearn link below to read further strategies on how to answer these questions.

Sources: Simplilearn, mba.com, P&Q

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