Nontraditional MBA Applicants: How To Stand Out in  Admissions

Nontraditional MBA applicants may feel like they have the cards stacked against them in admissions. But, in reality, business schools value diversity and seek out applicants with unique perspectives and backgrounds.

Rachel Beck, an admissions consultant at mbaMission, recently offered a few tips to help nontraditional MBA applicants navigate the application process and highlight their unique qualities.

BE TRUE TO YOURSELF

One mistake that many MBA applicants make is trying to be the “ideal applicant.” But, Beck says, your unique background can actually help you stand out from the crowd.

“Highlight what you are good at and showcase accomplishments you have had in your field,” Beck says. “No professor wants to be in front of a class that is made up entirely of bankers and consultants. Your experience adds diversity to the class and allows you to look at situations from a different perspective than that of others. Emphasize your distinctiveness.”

The short essays are a perfect opportunity to tell your story and highlight what makes you unique.

“Take advantage of these essays to explain why you decided to pursue your previous path and how the skills/qualities that you have gained in your professional roles can help you on your way to business school,” Padya Paramita, of InGenius Prep, says.

GET STRONG GMAT/GRE SCORES

Regardless of your background, business schools want applicants who can demonstrate quantitative or analytical skills. If you lack these skills in your experience, you’ll need to showcase them through the GMAT or GRE.

“Even if such skills are not a major part of your work experience, showing the admissions committee that you can manage the quantitative demands of an MBA program is crucial,” Becks says. “A strong quantitative performance on the GMAT, GRE, or EA can help prove you are ready for MBA academics.”

HIGHLIGHT YOUR STRENGTHS

As a nontraditional applicant, you have skills and experience that traditional applicants might lack. Think about what sets you apart and highlight these qualities in your application. Beck recommends showcasing qualities such as leadership or collaboration.

“Think about your experiences in your work environment and extracurricular activities, and tell stories about times you have engaged positively and productively with others,” Beck says. “For example, a teacher might write about how they collaborated with fellow staff members to develop programming that raised students’ test scores school-wide.”

Sources: mbaMission, InGenius Prep

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