MBA Prerequisites: What You Need Before Applying
If you’re thinking about an MBA, the first question is "Do I have what schools look for?" The short answer is yes, if you line up the right pieces. Below we break down the must‑have credentials, tests, and soft skills that most Indian and global programs expect.
Academic & Work Experience Basics
Almost every MBA program wants a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. You don’t need a 4.0 GPA, but a solid CGPA (typically 6.5/10 or higher) shows you can handle coursework. If your grades are a bit low, strong work experience can balance it out.
Work experience is the real game‑changer. Most schools ask for at least two years of full‑time work, and the best programs prefer three to five years. They’re looking for leadership moments—project ownership, team management, or measurable impact. Keep a list of achievements: revenue growth you drove, cost‑saving initiatives, or any process you improved.
When you write your resume, stick to a clean format and use action verbs. Highlight promotions, cross‑functional projects, and any awards. Recruiters love numbers, so say "increased sales by 20%" instead of just "improved sales".
Standardized Tests and Soft Skills
The GMAT or GRE is the next hurdle. A total GMAT score of 650+ usually gets you into decent schools, but top institutes push for 700+. If math isn’t your strong suit, focus on the Quant section and practice with official guides. You can also boost your verbal score by reading business news daily.
English proficiency matters, especially for international programs. IELTS (minimum 7.0) or TOEFL (minimum 90) scores are common requirements. If you studied in English, many schools waive this, but it never hurts to have a decent score on hand.
Beyond numbers, schools evaluate your personal story. Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) should explain why you want an MBA, what you aim to achieve, and how your background fits the program’s focus. Keep it crisp—about 500 words—and avoid generic buzzwords. Use real examples to show your motivation.
Letters of recommendation (LORs) should come from supervisors who can speak to your leadership and teamwork. Give them a brief on what you’re applying for and key projects you want highlighted. A strong LOR can tip the scales when your GPA is average.
Finally, prepare for the interview. Schools test your fit, communication, and clarity of goals. Practice answering questions like "What’s your biggest failure and what did you learn?" with honest, concise stories.
Putting these pieces together—good academics, solid work experience, competitive test scores, clear English, and compelling personal narratives—makes you a strong MBA candidate. Start by mapping where you stand on each criterion, then create a timeline to fill any gaps before application deadlines.
Ready to take the next step? Grab a notebook, list your achievements, schedule a GMAT prep plan, and start drafting your SOP. The sooner you act, the more time you’ll have to polish every part of your application and boost your chances of landing a seat in a top MBA program.