The MBA application essays only allow you a few hundred words to tell admissions teams who you are, what you offer, and why you should be accepted. It’s a lot to fit in such little space. For those candidates applying to UT Austin McCombs, the adcom shared a blog post all about “Successfully Answering the MBA Essay Questions.” They cover what it takes to write a thoughtful and genuine response to their prompts and offer tips for submitting a strong application.
Tips from McCombs on MBA Essay #1
Essay 1: We will learn a lot about your professional background through your resume and letter of recommendation, but we want to get to know you further.
Please introduce yourself. Select only one communication method for your response:
Write an essay (250 words) OR Share a video introduction (one minute in length)
Introducing yourself in 250 words or one minute isn’t easy, and it’s purposely tricky. The goal is to grant you the freedom you need to introduce yourself however best fits your personality. It should be authentically you.
Think of this response as an elevator pitch about who you are in a “complete sense.” And don’t forget the opening of the question! You don’t want to repeat what’s in your resume and letter of recommendation. Share who you are outside of these documents and the bullets you’ve already covered.
And don’t worry about choosing between an MBA application essay and a video. McCombs doesn’t have a preference. The key is to play to your strengths, and if you decide to send in a video clip, make sure it’s a chance to see and hear you.
Advice from McCombs on MBA Essay #2
Essay 2: Picture yourself at graduation. Describe how you spent your time as a Texas McCombs MBA to achieve your personal and professional goals. —500 words
Why are you applying to UT Austin McCombs? How do you plan to spend your time during your MBA program? The goal should be to show the admissions committee what you’re passionate about, your career plan, and how you want to develop yourself.
In this essay, you should focus on how you feel McCombs will help you achieve your goals. Get specific into classes, organizations, and opportunities that excite you and connect all the dots. Demonstrate that you’re ready and willing to make an impact in the McCombs community and leave a lasting legacy.
Optional Statement & Dos and Don’ts
For advice on answering the optional statement, as well as a list of dos and don’ts to keep in mind when answering the MBA application essays, head on over to the McCombs blog. You’ll learn what type of language to avoid and the importance of editing.
For more advice, see Clear Admit’s Essay Topic Analysis for UT Austin / McCombs.
