MBA programs require applicants to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. While undergraduate students preparing for a career in business often major in subjects like accounting, business or finance, MBA programs are just as likely to accept students with undergraduate degrees in liberal arts or science. A well-rounded education is a requirement for a successful career in business. According to Business Week, only 19 percent of the students attending their top-rated MBA programs had business degrees.
MBA program applicants are typically required to send in GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) scores with their admissions application. GMAT scores reflect an applicant's aptitude for analytical writing, quantitative reasoning and verbal reasoning. Students who attended bachelor's degree programs outside of the United States are asked to send in either their TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) scores.
Most MBA programs require applicants to provide one or more letters of recommendation from employers, mentors, professional contacts, former professors or advisers. Students should not to submit letters from family members or friends.
MBA program applicants often must write a personal essay discussing their personal and professional history, as well as their purpose in pursuing a MBA. These letters give admissions review boards an idea of the applicant's personality, intelligence, accomplishments and determination. Candidates should have their essays thoroughly critiqued and edited by a trusted party before submitting.
MBA programs are not traditional master's degree programs; applicants are required to have years of full-time professional experience in their field. Applicants provide a resume or CV (curriculum vitae) listing job titles and duty descriptions, professional achievements, awards, grants and professional affiliations.
Once MBA candidates apply for program admission, schools typically ask them to come in for an in-depth interview with members from the program's admissions review board. Candidates should research likely questions and perform mock interviews with a trusted adviser or mentor.
MBA program applicants must submit a completed application with the appropriate fee. MBA program application fees average about $200.
Specific graduation requirements vary depending on the MBA program students attend; general requirements are completion of all courses and the maintenance of a "B" or better cumulative grade point average.