The admission requirements of business schools vary, but they share many similarities. Most programs require an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, your scores from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), one or more essays and two letters of recommendation. Many MBA programs require an interview. An undergraduate curriculum that exposes you to analytical thinking and business issues will benefit your application to a competitive program. Consider taking courses such as calculus, statistics, marketing and business law.
The GMAT measures your aptitude for business school coursework. It tests English language, math and analytical skills. You can improve your score by becoming familiar with the exam's format, taking practice exams and learning to manage the time allowed. The exam is administered using a computer-adaptive system; the difficulty of exam questions changes depending on how you answer previous questions. As part of your preparation, complete practice tests under exam conditions.
Most business schools require a personal statement or essay as part of the application process. The essay is an opportunity for you to describe talents, skills and interests that are not reflected on your school transcripts. You can use the essays to explain your motivation for applying to business school and to detail your career aspirations. For example, Stanford Business School requires three essays of 300 words each and allows you to choose among three topics for each essay.
Though you won't know in advance what questions will be asked at the interview, you can prepare for it. Often an interviewer will ask you questions based on your background. Be prepared to answer questions about jobs you've held, your coursework and your extracurricular activities. Evaluate the reasons you chose to apply to business school. Write practice answers for basic questions such as "Why did you choose our program?" Taking the time to prepare written answers to potential questions will reflect a polish and poise that other candidates may lack.