MBA Admissions Chicago Booth MBA Interview Advice

Tip #1: Relax and Be Yourself
Relax. There is no right or wrong answer to any question during the interview. Just be your authentic self. The purpose of the admissions interview is to further the acquaintance process—you get to know more about Chicago Booth and we get to know more about you. The interview helps us discover more about you as a candidate, what you want to accomplish in your future, why a Booth MBA is the best suited for you, and how you hope to contribute to the Booth community.

Tip #2: Be Succinct Yet Comprehensive
As you answer the interviewer’s questions, do so in a way that’s succinct yet provides full context. Answering questions in a way that’s straightforward and to the point provides more time for the interviewer to ask better questions to get to know you more. The more we know about you, the better we can assess your candidacy.

Tip #3: Research the Program
The interview will be more advantageous to both parties if you come with a basic understanding of how the MBA Program you applied to is structured. If you’re reading this blog now, you’re already taking one step in the right direction. Continue to explore the Booth website to find out more about what our program and approach to business education has to offer, and use that to your advantage during the interview.

Tip #4: Ask Questions
The interview process is a two-way exchange. As we find out more about you, you are interviewing us as well. The interview is a great time to ask questions to someone who is more familiar with Booth and the admissions process. Feel free to jot down your questions so the ones you truly want answered don’t get lost in the moment. Also, coming prepared to ask about specifics or something you couldn’t glean from the website is a good way to demonstrate that you’ve done your due diligence about Chicago Booth.

Tip #5: Dress Professionally
In order to put your best foot forward during the interview, we expect applicants to wear business professional attire (even if you'll be sitting in front of a computer screen!).

Tip #6: Be Conversational
Be willing to listen and interact. The interview process is meant to be conversational, not a sales pitch. While being prepared is imperative, being comfortable with being in the moment is also important. And remember, we view the interview process as a two-way exchange, meaning you gain as much as you give during the interview.

Tip #7: Share Your Story
We want to hear your story! Every incoming Booth class is filled with bright individuals who are keen to explore their particular interests in and outside of the classroom. Every story is unique and we want to hear yours. Being able to articulate your personal narrative by touching on your experiences, passions, career aspirations, and more is a critical component of the interview process.

Tip #8: Create a Distraction-Free Environment
Setting up a quiet, well-lit, and professional environment is crucial for your interview. Ensure that your background is neat and free of distractions, or feel free to use a virtual background. Inform those around you that you’ll be in an important meeting to avoid any interruptions. A well-prepared setting will help you stay focused and make a strong impression during the interview.

Tip #9: Test Technology Beforehand
All interviews are conducted virtually, so testing your wifi connection, audio, and camera quality is essential. It’s recommended you double check the time and timezone of your meeting and log on early to ensure your technology is up to par. We want you to have a satisfactory interview experience, so try to do what you can on your end to make sure your virtual interview goes as smoothly as possible.

Tip #10: Go with the Flow
Given there can be connectivity glitches and internet freezes, go with the flow and don’t let tech issues throw you off track. Even in the face of unexpected technical difficulties we know you’ve got this!