Graduate schools typically require students to write an essay identifying themselves, their professional goals and significant career or academic achievements. UCLA requires applicants to provide two essays, which include answers to the following questions: "What event or life experience has had the greatest influence in shaping your character and why?" and "Describe your short-term and long-term career goals. What is your motivation for pursuing an MBA now and how will UCLA Anderson help you to achieve your goals?"
Students are required to provide transcripts of previous academic programs they have completed with their application. According to the official MBA guide, the average undergraduate GPA for MBA students at top schools such as Harvard and Northwestern University is 3.5.
Prospective students are typically required to take the GMAT, a three-hour exam that tests prospective students in their writing, quantitative and verbal skills. According to the official MBA guide, the average GMAT scores for MBA students at educational institutions such as MIT, the University of California, Northwestern University and the University of Chicago meet or exceed a score of 700.
Students must provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional individuals with whom they have worked with. The letters of recommendation should highlight their business or academic success and abilities. The individuals they select should be able to speak well to their work style and leadership abilities.