A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a popular management degree recognized worldwide. Many students around the world pursue this degree because it increases degree holders’ marketability and provides exciting career opportunities. Most companies offer lucrative salaries and other benefits to individuals with an MBA degree.

Students from non-business backgrounds can also pursue an MBA program. Various universities in the US offer MBA degree programs on-campus and online. Moreover, you can study full-time or part-time based on your circumstances. Your mode of study can determine the number of years it will take you to complete your MBA. On average, students complete their MBA degree in two to three years.

An MBA degree is versatile and teaches you a lot about different fields like economics, sociology, marketing, and many other disciplines. All that knowledge helps you understand any industry’s basic management principles and business models. Thus, providing plenty of job opportunities to you.

If you’re wondering how to enroll in an accredited MBA program, we are going to discuss the set requirements and eligibility criteria.

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1.   GMAT Score

Most universities in the US require a GMAT score from all their prospective students (domestic or international). A graduate management admission test (GMAT) is compulsory to secure admission to an MBA program in most US universities. However, some universities like Suffolk University in Boston offer an MBA online with no GMAT as well.

The universities offering admissions without a GMAT score are few in number. Therefore, you must apply here before all spots are filled. However, if you want to diversify your options, you can take the three-hour GMAT and apply to more places.

A higher GMAT score of 733 is essential for applying to top business schools like Stanford. However, it is necessary to secure an average GMAT score of 564 to apply to most business schools in America.

2.   A Bachelor Degree

A four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited university is necessary to apply to an MBA program offered by a US college. A bachelor’s degree in business, like BBA (Bachelor in Business Administration) is preferred by business schools. However, students with a non-business background are also eligible to apply.

Students with a business background are already familiar with many business, management, and related concepts. Students with non-business backgrounds can struggle to understand several of those concepts. Therefore, students with a non-business background are encouraged to take extra introductory classes to grasp the basics.

3.   Work Experience

Work experience is a core requirement for admission to an MBA program in the US. Most American business schools expect you to have worked for at least two to three years after graduating with your bachelor’s degree or before applying to their MBA degree program. Some top business schools may require more years (five to seven) of work experience.

According to US News and World Report, most students applying to an MBA program have a work experience of four years and one month on average. For executive MBA programs, ten years of work experience is required.

Overall, work experience before enrolling in an MBA program is crucial because this degree helps you understand and nurtures the skills you learn on the job. Moreover, it helps you build more skills based on your previous experience. Therefore, along with the years of work experience, the nature of the job is also considered.

4.   Resume

Most MBA programs require you to submit a resume, which is a summary of your qualifications, work experience, skills, and achievements. Your resume is your introduction to the admissions officer/committee and is a crucial part of your application.

Some tips that can help your resume stand out are as follows;

• Limit it to a single page.
• List your most recent experiences first (a reverse chronological order).
• Don’t include a photo or personal details.
• List your work experience with a summary of your job role.
• List your educational qualifications and highlight your achievements.
• Don’t forget to list your skills.
• Always proofread, edit, and revise before submitting.

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5.   Personal Statement

Most business schools in America require a personal statement from prospective students applying to their MBA program. A personal statement is a cover letter written as an essay detailing your reason for pursuing an MBA. Moreover, your personal statement should also answer why you are applying to your chosen business schools and what you plan to do after graduating with an MBA degree.

Here are some tips for writing an impactful personal statement;

• Stay authentic, and don’t try to please
• Mention the main objectives of your career
• Write the process or motivation behind selecting a specific school
• Don’t shy away from sharing the struggles and setbacks in your career
• Share the stories of when you used your leadership qualities
• Finally, write how an MBA program will help you achieve your career goals

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6.   Letter of recommendation

A letter of recommendation is also a crucial requirement for enrolling in an MBA program. Most business schools prefer a professional recommendation letter over an academic recommendation letter. Some schools may ask for two letters of recommendation.

It is best to ask your supervisor at your current workplace to write your letter of recommendation. If two recommendation letters are required, try to get one from your previous senior or supervisor.

A letter of recommendation can significantly affect your chances of securing admission. Your letter of recommendation highlights your best qualities and summarizes what it is like to work with you.

The Wrap Up

MBA is the most sought-after management degree in the world. Many students pursue it to increase their earning potential, career opportunities, and overall marketability. Several schools across the US offer MBA degree programs to equip students with expert-level knowledge of economics, finance, marketing, and related disciplines.

If you plan to pursue an MBA degree, the basic requirements or eligibility criteria to enroll in an MBA program are a bachelor’s degree in business or non-business discipline, a good GMAT score, a letter(s) of recommendation preferably from professional supervisors, a concise resume, an impactful personal statement, and at least two years of work experience. Hopefully, this article will help you understand the requirements and eligibility criteria for enrolling in an MBA program.

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11/22/2024 10:58 pm GMT