The MBA admissions process has become somewhat paradoxical. Admissions teams like to give lip service to the importance of compiling a well-rounded class, with the theory that diverse groups tend to work smarter. There is certainly a clear interest in going beyond people with traditional MBA backgrounds in business, accounting, finance, economics, and engineering to non-traditional candidates coming from humanities, social science, or other backgrounds.
However, this situation poses a difficult challenge for admissions committees: while business schools would like to bring non-traditional candidates into the fold, they must consider whether these candidates possess the academic skills to handle a rigorous quantitative/analytical curriculum (i.e., a humanities major that never took calculus or statistics in college) or might not fit into the collaborative, project-based learning model (i.e., math majors or scientists that rarely move away from their computer monitors or lab benches). Another potential issue is that these students may struggle to compete for MBA feeder jobs like investment banking or management consulting, which typically account for >60% of hiring upon graduation, and these career outcomes can affect schools’ MBA rankings, which are important marketing tools.
Thus, while MBA admissions committees value the unique perspectives that non-traditional applicants bring to the class, due to the higher risk associated with them, they will take a cautious approach and probably admit no more than 25% of the overall class, as these MBA class profiles from Columbia, Washington Foster, and UCLA Anderson demonstrate. To put it another way, admissions teams have an incentive to admit more traditional/less unique applicants, simply because they offer lower academic risk and more predictable career outcomes.
So, what can non-traditional applicants do to overcome this barrier and secure one of the limited spaces available to them? The key is to find the right ways to stand out while fitting in. On one hand, you can stand out due to a unique background and experiences—highlighting that you can bring what others cannot. On the other hand, it is imperative that you fit in enough based on traditional MBA profiles. This might seem counterintuitive, as your uniqueness is in fact your strength. However, we are not talking about conformity, but the ability to easily adapt to and blend into the rigorous business-focused learning environment, and having a career goal that an MBA can facilitate. Here are several ways a non-traditional applicant can achieve this:
Standing Out by Demonstrating Leadership
Although you may not have managed a business unit, you can stand out by finding ways to prove that you are a born leader. Consider what stories you can tell that display leadership qualities and an extraordinary impact made on an organization or group. Any situation that involves taking initiative and rallying people around a goal, whether you had leadership authority or not, even if it was a social impact, creative, or educational endeavor, could be impactful. In short, regardless of your lack of business experience, when talking about leadership, you must tell memorable stories that deliver concrete examples of your ability.
Stand Out by Showing Outstanding Professional Experience
MBA admissions teams are on the lookout for rare talents. Therefore, even though your experience does not fall within traditional finance, operations, or strategic business management, it is imperative to emphasize the impactful nature of your professional experience. There are many ways to show that your work experience was unique and outstanding both within and beyond your core duties, such as working with the most important clients, assignments involving complex planning and analysis, key initiatives hatched, or rapid promotions earned. If you are a teacher, that might mean that you were not only uncommonly good at educating your students, but perhaps that you helped the school double fundraising, devised new digital educational models, or established partnerships with businesses or universities that created opportunities for your students. If you are an architect, you probably not only produced cutting-edge designs, but also directed your company toward a profitable niche in sustainability projects and formed a D&I committee at your company which propelled the firm into the top work/life balance rankings in your industry. In summary, to drive this point home it will be crucial to highlight that your experience was impactful in your organization and that your managers recognize your advanced abilities.
Fitting in by Possessing the Skills Needed to Thrive in the MBA Classroom
To overcome the perceived bias that non-traditional applicants may struggle academically, it is wise to make a concerted effort to convince the admissions committee that you fit into the MBA learning environment. To accomplish this, chat with current students, do a campus visit, or attend a virtual class to get a sense of what the learning community is like. Does the program heavily rely on the case method in most classes, such as Virginia Darden and IESE? After understanding the hallmarks of the case method, convince the adcom that based on your past experiences, you have the assertiveness, temperament, and communication ability to thrive in this environment. Or does the program incorporate intensive team-based learning, such as Duke Fuqua or London Business School? Although you may not be able to add extensive financial accounting skills to your project teams, if you can demonstrate your adroitness in reaching consensus, diffusing conflicts, and playing adaptable roles within teams, you will become a highly attractive candidate.
Fitting in with a Clear Career Plan
The overarching purpose of an MBA is preparation for one’s future career. Although you come from a non-traditional background, if you are shooting for a mainstream job like consulting, you need to make a compelling argument that you possess transferrable skills that match the job description and explain how an MBA will be essential in faciliating your career pivot. Conversely, if you do not have a mainstream goal, you will need to work hard to convince the admissions team how and why an MBA can prepare you for your chosen career. Either way, you must go beyond superficial and bland descriptions on the website and show a granular understanding of how the program fits your specific needs and can propel you toward the goal. Many essays and interview questions will touch on this crucial topic and the success of your application will hinge largely on your answers.
Here are some tips on how to assess whether you have written a compelling MBA goal essay. After writing the first draft, step back and consider whether the information only makes sense based on your background and situation. In other words, it would not make sense if someone else wrote the same essay because it applies to your specific life experiences. Think of it like this: if you asked ChatGPT “why someone (you) might want to attend the Indiana (Kelley) MBA program?”, the answer would probably make sense, but it would be uninspiring, lacking spark and texture. An AI language model cannot easily capture your particular stories and motives, and the raw emotions that will capture the reader’s attention. Finally, consider whether you have articulated with high anticipation how the various classes, company projects, and other resources can upgrade your existing skills and knowledge and will serve as a launchpad for your future career.
Let Us Guide You
If you would like the guidance of experienced consultants as you devise your strategy to apply as a non-traditional applicant, Transcend Admissions Consultants is here to help. We offer a range of services that can be tailored exactly to your needs. Our singular goal is to help you gain admittance to the MBA program of your choice!