• Education

MBA Essays: How to Write an Impressive MBA Essay

1024 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Aug 11,2023 04:57 PM IST

The MBA applicant essay is crucial as it is an opportunity to present as a multifaceted candidate. Admissions committees seek to admit individuals with humanity and not just future leaders. Hence, MBA Essays play a pivotal role in the whole process. Read the blog to understand its significance and tips for compelling essays.

MBA is one of the top programs pursued by students to widen their spectrum of job opportunities as it offers specialization in various fields. The MBA Essay is the most essential part of a business school application. Admission committees assess the candidate as a future leader and look for humanity.

Applicants should consider this as an opportunity to highlight their uniqueness, as it might be the only time to speak something directly to admissions officers.

How Can An MBA Essay Be Exceptional?

Writing an essay for MBA aims to showcase oneself as a genuine human being. The following are some tips to consider while writing an essay.

1. Be Specific: One prevalent mistake MBA applicants make is to stay at a superficial level, making their writing inaccessible to admissions committees. Providing adequate information on personal experiences and reasons for choosing the program is vital to avoid this. Incorporating the STAR template (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) in the essay can allow the candidate to write about relevant context, discuss the challenges, highlight the actions and mention the outcomes of the efforts.

2. Answer the Question: The candidate must answer the admissions committee's question. One might get carried away while writing the essays, but it is important to remember to answer the question. To make the process manageable, following the provided guidance and viewing the prompts as helpful guardrails for their writing is crucial. Staying focused and addressing the prompt directly ensures your essay aligns with the provided instructions.

3. Get Vulnerable: MBA Essay prompts aim to uncover as much about the candidate as possible within the assigned word count. It also requires one to share genuine experiences. An effective strategy is to present something real. Admissions officers review several applications, and to stand out, candidates must be willing to share honest insights. Applicants should take the opportunity to captivate the reader by showcasing their actual self-bright, vibrant, and unique.

4. Don't Exaggerate: Candidates should not exaggerate or lie about something, which can lead to rejection. Stay truthful and genuine, ensuring the claims are valid. It is better to present an authentic and honest portrayal of the candidate rather than jeopardizing the admission result.

Significance of Storytelling in MBA Essays

Admissions officers look forward to understanding how the applicants approach the traits like leadership and commitment in the essay. It is essential to highlight the features that officers would want to see. Through storytelling, the piece becomes relatable and showcases the candidates' journey, life lessons, challenges, and growth. It helps humanize the application and increases the chance of successful admission.

Also read: Why study MBA from Canada?

How to Start an Essay for MBA

Framing the first sentence can be difficult. The trick is overcoming the hurdle by simply putting anything on the page. Keep writing one sentence after another, letting the thoughts flow freely. Employing the STAR technique (Situation, task, action and result) can help create a compelling essay.

1. Situation- Describing the case, when and where it took place

2. Task- Explaining the task and the goal

3. Action- Providing information about the action

4. Result: Conclude with the development of the action

Tips and Tricks to Follow

Some tips and tricks to aid during the essay writing process are mentioned below:

1. Taking Breaks: When the candidate hits a mental block, it is necessary to take a break. Engaging in different activities or taking a nap can help refresh the mind and lead to unexpected inspiration.

2. Reading out loud: Printing a draft and reading out loud can help identify the mistakes. The method helps in identifying spelling errors and awkward transitions.

3. Seek Feedback: One must be confident of feedback. Share it with others and welcome the feedback to gather as much input as possible. A third party can provide valuable insights based on their observations.

4. Try Completing it early: Students need to consider the timing as well. It is necessary to avoid last-minute mishaps. One must be proactive to ensure a smooth process.

Also read: 1 year MBA in Canada

Mistakes to Avoid While Writing MBA Essays

There are some common mistakes a candidate must avoid:

1. Do not overcomplicate: The primary objective of the Admissions committees is to understand the individual rather than just a business professional. One must focus on expressing the ideas clearly and concisely, ensuring the essay is straightforward. Candidates are advised to keep the writing simple and avoid frustrating the committee.

2. Overlooking the essay questions –Candidates should be prepared to answer MBA essay questions. Misreading the question might lead one to write a completely different essay and miss what the admission committee looks for.

3. Initiating the process too close to the deadline -Starting the essay-writing process too late can lead to rushing. More time can lead to simple mistakes. To avoid this, starting early and having ample brainstorming, revising, and editing time is necessary.

How To Frame An Answer To 'Why MBA' Question?

One of the most common questions the admissions committee asks is why the students want to pursue MBA. The committees seek applicants who genuinely desire to pursue the degree and contribute. Reflecting on the question of 'Why an MBA?' provides a context to the candidates' previous decisions, such as job and career choices.

Conclusion

Storytelling in the essay highlights leadership traits and commitment, connecting readers with the candidate's journey, challenges, and growth. It becomes important to showcase oneself as a genuine human being while crafting an MBA Essay. Hence, the success in the MBA application process lies in preparation and sincere self-reflection.

Also read: MBA in Canada for International students

FAQ

What is the word limit for MBA Essay?

The length of an MBA essay depends on the school. Some schools allow a candidate to write up to 500 words, and others want short and crisp essays of 150 words.

How to improve the essay for MBA?

One can improve the MBA essay by reviewing grammar and spelling errors, as it acts as the foundation of good writing.

How to write an optional essay for MBA?

A candidate completing an optional MBA essay should keep it as short and to the point as humanly possible.

Are essays important for MBA admissions?

The admissions committee uses essays to gain insights into the personality, interests, career goals, etc., academically and professionally.

Can we use bullet points in MBA Essay?

Yes, candidates can use bullet points in MBA Essay. Bullet points help writers organize and emphasize information quickly and effectively.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Coe College

Iowa, USA • 51 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 50000-51000 / year

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)

Alberta, Canada • 125 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 13500-30000 / year

Coastal Carolina University

South Carolina, USA • 75 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 29000-30000 / year

University of the West of England - Bristol - Glenside Campus

England, UK • 9 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 14000-16000 / year

Fanshawe College - London Downtown Campus

Ontario, Canada • 18 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 14500-16500 / year

Hillsborough Community College - Plant City Campus

Florida, USA • 40 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 9000-12000 / year

University of South Dakota - Vermillion Campus

South Dakota, USA • 204 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 12000-13000 / year

Navitas Group - Charles Sturt University - Sydney Campus

New South Wales, Australia • 9 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 0-0 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

The International Education Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, Singapore, Germany, Ireland, France

Amritsar • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - University of Law, UK

Study in UK • University Visit

Mohali • 10:30AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Canterbury Christ Church University, UK

Study in UK • University Visit

Chennai • 10:00AM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Masters in International Business (MIB) in USA

Masters in International Business (MIB) is a 1-2 years long postgraduate degree program offered in the USA. The program offers a unique blend of busin...

Updated on • Nov 05,2024 04:12 PM IST • USA

IELTS Line Graph Model Answer

IELTS Line Graph is one of the two tasks of IELTS writing section. In this task, you will get a visual representation to explain in 150 words. It show...

Updated on • Nov 02,2024 04:35 PM IST • IELTS

Common Reasons for Student Visa Rejection in the USA

Studying in the United States is a dream for countless students worldwide. The idea of exploring expansive campuses, connecting with a diverse global ...

Updated on • Nov 01,2024 05:40 PM IST • USA

Why Study in France

Art and culture are among the most attractive factors that make France a wonderful choice as a study destination. The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Da...

Updated on • Nov 01,2024 01:41 PM IST • France

Study in New Zealand After Graduation

Thinking about pursuing your higher education in a serene and culturally diverse country? New Zealand is indeed your best option! The sceneries of Ne...

Updated on • Oct 29,2024 04:17 PM IST • New Zealand

Statement of Purpose (SOP) for Undergraduates : Format, Sample & Expert Tips

The Statement of Purpose is a cornerstone of every student's dream of pursuing higher education in a foreign country. An SOP allows students to highli...

Updated on • Oct 28,2024 05:52 PM IST • SOP

January Intake in UK : Universities, Timeline, Deadlines & More

Before choosing the UK as your study abroad destination, it is essential to learn about the three study intakes: Fall, Winter, and Summer, beginning i...

Updated on • Oct 28,2024 04:17 PM IST • study in the UK

Part-time Jobs for International Students in USA

A part-time job is more than just extra income; it's a stepping stone to experience, grow, and discover your potential. Going by this quote you might ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 05:56 PM IST • USA

Top Perks of Studying in New Zealand

Every year, a large number of students take a leap towards their dream by beginning to study in New Zealand. This island country has the all resource...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:54 PM IST • New Zealand

Top MBA Courses to Specialize in Abroad

MBA (Master of business administration) is a prestigious postgraduate qualification recognized internationally. It is designed to develop ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:52 PM IST • Study Abroad

Study Abroad: Physiotherapy Guide

With mechanization and inactive lifestyles, people face common muscular-skeletal problems that include neck pain, osteoarthritis knee, backache, a...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:42 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

Linking Words for IELTS Speaking - Word List & Tips

Linking words serve as the verbal "glue" that holds your ideas and phrases together. They aid in making connections between your sentences and are cru...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:28 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Writing Task 2 - Academic and General Topics with Sample Answer

The second component of the IELTS writing test, IELTS Writing Task 2, asks you to produce an essay in response to a point of view, an argument, or a p...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:26 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Writing Task 2: Tips, Lessons & Models

IELTS Writing task 2 is an essay writing question, and there are a few techniques or strategies that can help you tackle each question uniquely and sy...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:21 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Test Report Form (TRF): Number, Tracking, Validity and Sample

After taking the IELTS test, a scorecard is received with overall and band scores for each of the module- listening, reading, writing and speaki...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 01:01 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Speaking Samples and Answers

The three parts of the IELTS Speaking test take between five and fifteen minutes to complete. The sub-test consists of a talk with a qualified examine...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:59 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS speaking part 3 topics

IELTS has four components on which a candidate is marked: Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking. The IELTS speaking consists of an 11 to 20-minute ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:55 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Speaking Cue Cards

IELTS Speaking One of the modules of an IELTS Exam is the Speaking Module. The Speaking module tests your ability to speak the English Language on ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:52 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS Sample Charts for Writing Task 1 Practice

IELTS WRITING TASK 1 (Academic Paper) is a report that includes multiple charts such as bar charts, line graphs, tables, pie charts, diagrams, process...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:49 PM IST • IELTS

IELTS GT Writing Task 1/ IELTS Letter Writing

The IELTS letter-writing section evaluates your everyday language use. It also checks your ability to integrate into an English-speaking culture. The ...

Updated on • Oct 25,2024 12:48 PM IST • IELTS

MBA Essays: How to Write an Impressive MBA Essay

Table of Contents

How Can An MBA Essay Be Exceptional?

Significance of Storytelling in MBA Essays

How to Start an Essay for MBA

Tips and Tricks to Follow

Mistakes to Avoid While Writing MBA Essays

How To Frame An Answer To 'Why MBA' Question?

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams