The best online MBA programs are also the most competitive. So how can you successfully apply for a top-ranked online MBA? Here’s five steps to a winning online MBA application
With an online MBA, you can accelerate your career trajectory, boost your salary, and build a global network, while working from home.
Unsurprisingly, interest in online MBA programs is booming. According to the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), 86% of online MBA programs in the United States saw a growth in applications in 2020, with competition increasing for places on top online MBAs.
So what do you need to get into the world's best online MBAs? And how is applying for an online MBA different from a full-time MBA program?
At the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, one of the top schools to offer an online MBA, the admissions process is just as rigorous in its Online MBA program as it is for its Full-Time MBA.
BusinessBecause caught up with the admissions team and an online MBA student from Michigan Ross to find out how to boost your application.
5 Steps To A Winning Online MBA Application
1. Online MBA Requirements – Know what your target school is looking for
Most online MBA programs have similar requirements to traditional MBA programs: undergraduate and graduate transcripts, a GMAT score, résumé, personal recommendations, and an interview.
Just like full-time MBA admissions, the students who perform best are usually those who have done extensive research into the program they are applying for, says Anne Schoen (pictured) Associate Admissions Director at Michigan Ross.
But there are also a variety of characteristics Michigan Ross likes to see in its prospective students that you should aim to get across in your application.
"At Ross in particular, we place a really high value on teamwork and collaboration,” Anne explains. “Candidates who are able to showcase these qualities in the application process usually do well.”
Michigan Ross takes a personal approach to MBA admissions. Online MBA student, Sarah Dubow, says the school made it clear that “the admissions team really wanted to get to know me—not the cookie-cutter MBA applicant I thought I should be portraying.”
2. Online MBA GMAT – Look at the class GMAT score range as well as the average GMAT
The world’s top business schools will consistently see GMAT scores of 700 or more from their applicants. While the GMAT is just one part of your MBA application, a high GMAT score will increase your chances of admission.
Michigan Ross accepts both the GMAT and GRE during admissions. The average GMAT score for the Michigan Ross Online MBA is 677, but accepted GMAT test scores range from 620 to 730, meaning even with a lower score you could still be accepted.
“Remember, the admissions committee is evaluating your application holistically; your application is more than simply a score on a test,” Anne says.
Michigan Ross also offers candidates other ways to demonstrate their readiness beyond the GMAT and GRE, including the Executive Assessment, limited waivers for highly-qualified candidates, and a Quantitative Readiness Course.
3. Online MBA Essays – Tell your story and how the MBA fits in
The essay portion of your online MBA application is your chance to show your chosen school that you deserve a place on the program.
Michigan Ross has a strict 100 word limit for their short essay prompts, while the longer essay amounts to 200 words. This makes it even more important that you know exactly what you want to get across to admissions directors.
“Give examples that show what you are passionate or curious about, what you are proud of, what drives you, and share stories that help the committee to understand you as an individual,” Anne recommends.
“The application should paint a picture of someone with clear goals who knows how an MBA program will help them.”
4. Online MBA Recommendation Letters – Choose recommenders who know you well
A recommendation letter should ideally come from a current manager or supervisor, but Anne stresses that “the title of the person writing the letter is not nearly as important as the content of what they share.”
When it comes to choosing your recommender, choose someone who knows your working style and characteristics.
It’s a good idea to have a chat with the person you’ve chosen before they write the letter so you can explain a little more about why you want to do an MBA and what your personal goals are.
5. Online MBA Interview – Be yourself!
The final stage of your online MBA application is your interview, with only the best applicants invited.
In her Online MBA interview, Sarah (pictured) was asked typical questions such as why she wanted to do an MBA and why she had chosen Michigan Ross.
“I was also asked about my experience of working in remote environments and my interest in working in a hybrid synchronous/asynchronous learning setting,” she says. Admissions directors want to know how a candidate can add value in the classroom, even if that classroom is virtual.
Sarah attributes her application success to one thing: being able to communicate exactly why she wanted to join Michigan Ross specifically, and not another business school.
“I could clearly articulate why I wanted to be a part of shaping the first top Online MBA program in the country and how I was going to help to shape it,” she explains.
“The Ross Online MBA program is new and relatively small so the admissions team really pressure tested how I'd contribute to the program," she adds.
What advice does Sarah have for anyone applying to a top online MBA?
“Be yourself. I used to absolutely hate it when MBA students told me this but it is true!
“Especially in an Online MBA program, what makes you different is what makes the virtual classroom discussions that much richer and relationships outside of the classroom much stronger. So write your true story, study hard for the GMAT or GRE and speak from the heart in your interview.
“It will not only let the admissions team understand how you will fit into the program but it will also make it easier for you to enter the virtual classroom environment comfortably and totally be yourself.”
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor - Stephen M. Ross School of Business
Student
Verified
8/01/2024
On Campus
Best School Ever
Love the University of Michigan! There are so many incredible people of all different backgrounds. We have an huge student population so it is easy to find people with similar interests. Also a great education that sets you up for any job in the future.
Jude
Verified
20/06/2023
On Campus
Lecturers; inspiring excellence
As a student in general one thing that stands out for me is the quality of how Information is passed through, I am eager to express my utmost gratitude to how the lecturers who greatly enrich my academic path pass these information. The exceptional quality of education and unwavering dedication displayed by these outstanding individuals have consistently surpassed my highest expectations. I am grateful for the profound influence they have on my personal development and the remarkable strides I have made in my learning journey.
Kate
Verified
28/05/2023
Blended
Top Choice
The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and comprehensive support systems that contribute to student career success. The undergraduate programs offered at the university are highly regarded, consistently ranking among the top public schools. The university's distinguished reputation and abundant resources empower students to excel. Faculty members are readily available and provide valuable guidance and knowledge to facilitate learning.
Fred
Verified
24/05/2023
On Campus
Remarkable journey
The University of Michigan has been a very fantastic experience for me. My expectations were surpassed by the high caliber of instruction, the enthusiastic lecturers, and the variety of options for personal development. The campus is stunning, and there is a wonderful sense of community there. The University of Michigan is a fantastic choice for a memorable collegiate experience. Go Blues!
George
Verified
18/05/2023
On Campus
Vibrant Atmosphere
The University of Michigan is a top institution with superb academics, outstanding faculty, and an unrivaled student experience. A quick stroll from end to end of Central Campus just takes a few minutes. The vibrant atmosphere of Ann Arbor, together with its accessibility to the city's center and abundance of dining options and activities, enhances its allure. An extra benefit is the convenient and effective transit system. The entire university experience was excellent!
Nitika Mittal
Verified
3/05/2023
Online
Leading Ambitious Teaching and Learning
I have enrolled in the course "Leading Ambitious Teaching and Learning."
It is starting on May 3rd and will end on August 31st, so it is a 6-week course. I am interested because it is a self-paced course which will help me with the following things;
Firstly, utilizing videos and other evidence can improve teachers' understanding of ambitious instruction. Providing teachers with practical examples and real-world applications can enhance their skills and knowledge. Secondly, technology can play a crucial role in supporting teachers and students in enacting ambitious instruction. Leveraging technology can provide additional resources, increase engagement, and promote personalized learning. Thirdly, research-based frameworks can be used to organize schools and systems to support ambitious instruction. Frameworks can help establish best practices and set standards for educators to follow. Lastly, leadership strategies and skills are vital to inspiring and supporting positive change. Strong leadership can motivate and guide teachers toward ambitious instruction while creating a positive school culture that prioritizes student learning.
This course is offered as certified and non-certified, and the fee for the certified course is very nominal (approx. $271). Moreover, all the professors are highly educated. This course has provided its course material online and it is supported by the Edx platform.
Overall, based on my educational background and work experience, I am confident that taking this course will provide me with additional qualifications and I can include it on my resume.
Student
Verified
4/04/2023
Online
World class institution
The University of Michigan is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, and it has a number of initiatives aimed at promoting equity and inclusion on campus. For example, it has a comprehensive set of policies and programs aimed at increasing the representation of underrepresented minorities, women, and LGBTQ individuals among its students, faculty, and staff.
Student
Verified
4/04/2023
On Campus
Coolest university ever!
The University of Michigan is a world-class institution that offers its students an exceptional education and an unparalleled range of opportunities for intellectual and personal growth. With its commitment to academic excellence, research, and service, it is no surprise that it consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States.
Student
Verified
4/04/2023
On Campus
Academic programs
The most impressive aspects of the University of Michigan is its academic programs. With over 260 degree programs across 19 schools and colleges, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, law, and medicine, the university offers an unparalleled range of opportunities for students to pursue their academic interests and career aspirations. The faculty members are world-renowned scholars and experts in their respective fields, and they are committed to providing their students with a challenging, yet supportive, learning environment.
Student
Verified
12/01/2024
On Campus
U of Michigan
University of Michigan is known to be very academically rigorous while also having a booming social life for students. I believe it fully lived up to this reputation!! Every school and program is a power house and has the resources and opportunities for students to succeed.
Student
Verified
11/07/2024
On Campus
Research Excellence
Great opportunities for research and skill development through coursework and project based learning.
Great peers and collaborative environment overall.
Amazing location of the university at Ann Arbor.
