MBA Application Tips Advice from Students and Alumni to Create Your Perfect MBA Application

“The application warrants reflection—not just why you want an MBA, but also why now. The MBA isn’t a degree that everyone needs, so understanding how you will use it and what you want for your career is critical before even applying. In my opinion, for someone who wants an MBA, there is no better school than Chicago Booth.

In terms of advice, I’d encourage everyone to visit a lecture if you can. Sitting in the classroom as a prospective student, I realized how much I missed being in an environment surrounded by smart people pushing themselves to grow. It takes real commitment to show up to class at 6 p.m. after work, and you realize pretty quickly whether a part-time MBA is the right fit for you.” – Michael Sporkin, Class of 2026 and Chicago Business Fellow

“At first glance, the application process can feel daunting, but when approached step-by-step, it becomes much more manageable. My biggest piece of advice is to reflect deeply on your “why.” Why do you want to pursue an MBA, and what do you hope to gain from the experience? The clearer you are about your goals, the more authentic and compelling your application will be.

I’d also encourage prospective students to think about what they want out of a program—both inside and outside the classroom—and assess how Booth aligns with those aspirations. Sitting in on a class, speaking with current students, and exploring student groups are all great ways to get a feel for the culture and opportunities. Booth has a rich and welcoming community, and current students are always happy to share their experiences, me included!” – Richa Patwa, Class of 2026 and Chicago Business Fellow

“Follow the numbers, but never lose sight of the people and dynamics at the heart of every organization, system, or process. One thing I love about Chicago Booth is that Booth’s analytical rigor is seamlessly integrated with qualitative frameworks to empower leaders and create lasting impact.” – Kyle Balog, Evening MBA Student and Kilts Fellow

“Visiting a class was one of the most valuable parts of my decision-making process. I attended a financial accounting class, and during a breakout session, a few students invited me to contribute to their discussion. That moment reinforced my belief that an MBA was within reach and that Booth was a place where collaboration and intellectual curiosity thrive.” – Sarah Hale, Class of 2026 and former co-chair of the Graduate Women in Business Group

“My main piece of advice would be to ensure your application story is cohesive. It's important to clearly show how your past experiences have shaped who you are today, and how they’ve guided you toward your decision to pursue an MBA. Be sure to articulate how you plan to leverage business school to build on those experiences, and outline the direction you see for your career after the MBA. Authenticity and a clear vision will make your application stand out.” – Isha Mehrotra, Class of 2026 and Chicago Booth Scholar

“Chicago Booth will provide you with a very unique skill set, especially in the marketing field. Booth’s quant-based and results-focused curriculum will allow you to stand out in the marketing space, as it will train your analytical mindset to think about the problems you are facing as a marketer/product manager/brand manager/etc. For me, Booth has provided the perfect blend of the soft skills necessary for my future career, with the hard skills that truly allow me to have a holistic business education. That being said, I’d also say not to be intimidated by the finance/economics courses that Booth is renowned for—this is a space where you should feel comfortable learning and challenging yourself!” – Emma Winburne, Class of 2026 and Kilts Fellow

“Booth is ready to help you build your dreams from day one. Come prepared to think big and take risks. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and know that you’re joining a community of people who truly support one another.

Also, make your plans. Even if you don’t know when the opportunity will come, make the plans. Eventually, something will open up, and you’ll be ready.” – Alfreda Holloway, Chicago Based Executive MBA Student and 75th Anniversary Scholarship Recipient

“My advice is to prioritize. You only have 24 hours in a day—some things will need to come off your list for the 21 months of the program. But that’s part of the value. You don’t want an MBA that’s too easy; you want a quality experience that challenges you.” – WeiBeng Ng, Hong Kong Based Executive MBA Student and 75th Anniversary Scholarship Recipient

“First, have a conversation with your nearest and dearest—it really does take a village. Once you have that support, just do it. I haven’t had a single regret.

There’s a quote I love: ‘Procrastination is the arrogant assumption that you’ll get a second chance to do tomorrow what you should have done today.’ If you’re thinking about Booth, don’t wait. The earlier you start, the more you’ll get out of it—and the sooner you can put what you learn into practice.” – Kyle Fraser-Allen, London Based Executive MBA Student and 75th Anniversary Scholarship Recipient

“My advice generally is to leverage the entirety of the Booth network—I’ve found my classmates equally resourceful in navigating the recruiting landscape and understanding the alternatives available when it comes to post-MBA investing roles.”  – Lauren St. Clair, ‘25, and former co-chair of the Private Equity Group

“Be yourself! I think it’s a trap to feel like you need to justify yourself and your experiences as a ‘non-traditional applicant.’ The best thing you can do is be authentic about your skills and areas for growth. I also completed Forte Foundation’s MBALaunch program to help meet other women going through the application process, and to help put my best foot forward in the essays and interviews.” – Harriet Spears, ‘25, and former co-chair of the Chicago Women in Business Group

“Try to enjoy the process and connect with as many Boothies as possible! The application essays are a great opportunity for introspection, helping you clarify why you want to pursue an MBA and setting a clear roadmap for your journey at Booth. Your greatest resource is the Booth community—students and alumni can offer valuable insights into what makes Booth unique, from academics to the social experience. Take advantage of their willingness to share and don’t hesitate to ask questions, you’ll find that Boothies truly embody the pay-it-forward culture.” – Teresa De La Vega Rodarte, ‘25, and former co-chair of the Chicago Women in Business Group