How to Apply for an MBA in USA?

MBA in the USA is extremely popular as the country has a colossal number of B-schools offering the best MBA programs. Applying to B-Schools in the US is a little different, as you need to understand different stages of the application process and work on documents to stand out from the vast pool of MBA applicants.

The MBA application process in the USA is indeed time-consuming. However, with the right guidance and information, you can easily complete the application on time.  

Each MBA application received by the college is thoroughly scrutinised by the Admission Office of the Business School and any discrepancy in the MBA application like incorrect information or incomplete application can lead to the rejection of the application. Hence, it is important to fill the application appropriately and accurately. 

If you are considering applying for an MBA in the USA, know how to complete the application process in detail: 

Highlights of an MBA in US

Check the highlights of an MBA program in the US: 

How to Apply for an MBA in the USA?  

The MBA admission process in the USA is time-taking as the complete process is divided into various stages, as illustrated below: 

Step by Step Guide to MBA Application Process for US

 Step 1: Choose the MBA Specialisation

The MBA degree program is vast and it is offered under various specialisations. Before you even start applying to a college in the USA, make sure you know your area of interest and specialisation you want to opt for. Spend some time to identify the reasons why you study for an MBA in the USA and the scope of the MBA degree program you wish to pursue. 

Step 2: Shortlist B-Schools in the USA 

Be mindful of the MBA college and MBA specialisation that you choose as this is what will help you build your career. Spend some time exploring the best MBA colleges in the USA.Research about the popular universities in the USA that offer the MBA specialization of your choice. Shortlist MBA colleges to apply for admission.

Step 3: Check MBA Admission Requirements in the USA 

The number of international applicants for an MBA in the US is always high. Hence you must have a good academic background and skills to get accepted at B-Schools in the US. However, several other factors determine the acceptance of a candidate in an MBA programme in the USA. The minimum requirement for a top B-School is higher than other B-Schools in the US. Thus, you must apply to multiple colleges at a time to increase your chances of admission. 

Know the minimum Academic Requirements and Test requirements to apply in B-Schools in the USA: 

Academic Requirement for MBA in USA

To apply for an MBA course in the USA, you need to fulfil the following academic requirements: 

• An undergraduate or bachelor's degree in any discipline like engineering, science, commerce, business management arts, etc. 

• A master’s or postgraduate degree holder can also apply for an MBA in the USA

• A full-time degree from a reputed university is acceptable.

• A high GPA will increase the chances of getting shortlisted for further admission process. 

Test Requirements for MBA in USA 

Here are the two test scores that you need to apply for an MBA in US. One is to analyse your readiness to join an MBA course and the other is to analyse your English language skills.

GMAT/ GRE 

GMAT is a standard test that is specially designed for management courses. Most universities and colleges in the USA require a GMAT score for MBA admissions. However, some schools also accept GRE scores for an MBA course admission.  

IELTS, TOEFL or PTE Academic

The language of instruction at B- schools in the USA is English. Hence, universities and colleges have an English language test requirement to analyse the proficiency of students in the English language. The two most popular English Language test scores at most B- Schools in the USA are IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Both these tests cover all aspects of an English language i.e Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. 

Work Experience for MBA in USA 

Most B-Schools in the USA require candidates to have relevant work experience of 2 to 3 years. A job role that demonstrates leadership qualities and management skills is an additional advantage.  No work experience requirement to study in USA is exceptional as an MBA course is specifically designed for higher career goal vision and one who is willing to take up responsible and independent job roles in a company, organisation or association.  

Step 4: Complete the MBA Application Process 

The MBA Application process has three main components: MBA Application Form, MBA Essay and Recommendation: 

Fill MBA Application Form: The first step to complete the MBA application process is to fill in the MBA application form. Complete the basic profile date by adding Name, Date of Birth, MBA Programme, Academic qualifications etc. 

Upload MBA Essay: The MBA Essay is an important part of the application. It is a descriptive document and must highlight the following points:

• Why do you need  to join an MBA course’

• What you wish to study at a specific college

• Goal and career perspective after MBA

• Strength and weakness

• Any projects were undertaken to demonstrate your leadership or management skills

MBA Essays must be well written. An impressive MBA increases your chances of getting shortlisted for further rounds of admission. 

Add Letters of Recommendation: B- Schools usually require 2 work recommendations. A letter of recommendation must be written by a manager or subordinate with whom you have worked previously. It must-have details on why you are a good fit for the MBA programme in the college. 

Track MBA Application Deadline in the US 

Make sure to complete the application on time. The MBA application deadline may vary for each college in the USA. Make sure to visit the MBA page of the university website to confirm the application deadline for MBA for a specific term.

Pay MBA Application Fee

Once you complete the application, make sure to pay for the MBA application fee before the final submission. No application is submitted until the payment is done.

Documents Required to Apply for MBA in the USA

Check the list of important documents you will need to complete the MBA application process in the USA: 

• Academic Transcript: It includes Class 10th & 12th Marksheet and Semester Wise University Marksheet.       

• Academic Certificate: It includes Class 10th & 12th Pass Certificate and Degree Certificate of previous qualified degree programmes.

• LORs

• SOP

• An updated resume

Step 5: Check the MBA Application Status 

Once the application is submitted successfully, keep tracking the status of the application. The university sends further rounds of MBA admissions through an email or the same is updated on the application portal of the university. Accept the invitation for an interview.  

Step 6: Attend MBA Interviews 

You can attend the MBA interviews only if your application is accepted at the college. You will receive a notification about the interview rounds from the respective college once the application is processed and you are shortlisted for further rounds. The interview process for MBA is a face to face interaction between you and the interviews. Apart from the general questions on career, goals and achievements you can also expect psychometric tests and real-time situation questions.  

Step 7: Wait for Acceptance Letter   

After completing all rounds of the application process, wait for further communication from the Admission Office of the College. Check the email ID for the receipt of the Acceptance of the Letter for the MBA programme. Accept the letter within the defined timeline 

Step 8: Deposit MBA Fees

After accepting the admission, pay the initial fee of the MBA course at the university to book the allotted seat. You may have an offer from more than one university. In such a case, choose the college that is most suitable for you and then make the payment. 

Step 9: Apply For Visa

Once the final admission is confirmed, you can apply for a study visa in the US. Check the following link to know details about USA Student Visa: USA F1 Student Visa Guide: Application Requirements, Interview Questions, Prep Tips

You will have to prove the financial support to study in the USA while applying for a Students Visa. In case you need financial assistance to Study MBA in the USA you can arrange for funds by applying for a study abroad education loan or you can look for scholarships to study in the USA.

You can start applying for scholarships while filling the application form for an MBA course. To apply for a study education loan, you need to receive the Letter of Enrollment issued by the college. 

How We Can Help You

With so many options in terms of MBA specialisations and colleges, you might get confused while applying for admission. Let us take some load off you!

• We can help you shortlist the best MBA colleges based on your profile.

• We can help you with preparation for exams like GMAT, GRE, IELTS, TOEFL or PTE Academic.

• We can help you prepare for your MBA SOP and Letter of Enrollment (LOR).

• We have years of experience in sending students to the top US universities so we can double your chances of getting admission.

• With us, you don't have to worry about the timelines or deadlines. We will take care of that and make your entire application process hassle-free.

• We also provide visa assistance and guidance on how to go about cracking your interviews.

Also Read: Best Time to Start Your MBA Application Process for US Universities

Also Read: Low GMAT Score? Check the List of Popular B-Schools Where You Can Apply

In case you still need help to apply for an MBA program in the USA, you can write to us at  abroad@collegedekho.com.