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Like other programs, there are online MBA admission requirements. Applying for an online MBA program can seem a bit daunting. Especially if you’ve been out of the education world for a number of years.
What documentation do you need? What kinds of test scores or other relevant information will need to be included in your application?
And, how likely are you to be accepted?
This article will cover the basics of online MBA admission requirements, what you need to know, and how you can move forward. The school/program dictates the specifics of the admissions process. So, while this general information can be useful to guide your path, you’ll certainly want to consult with the admissions department at the college or university you’re hoping to attend. They’ll be able to provide full details and specific requirements for application.
What’s included in online MBA admission requirements
The exact requirements will vary by institution. However, almost all online MBA programs require a similar set of documents and credentials for their application.
These generally include:
- Undergraduate transcripts
- Professional work experience documentation
- Letters of recommendation (professional references)
- Personal essay (optional or sometimes not required)
- GMAT/GRE scores (optional or sometimes not required)
Each of these pieces of your application will be important in the evaluation process.
Keep in mind that the admissions staff for MBA programs are usually looking for students with some level of professional work/management experience and/or strong future management prospects. Not all programs require work experience, but programs almost always encourage it.
Online MBA admission requirements:
Prerequisite courses and CLEP credits
It’s not required for MBA applicants to have completed undergraduate coursework in business. Most MBA programs will include a foundational business education, which includes classes in accounting, finance, marketing, and management, along with specialized courses based on the student’s area of emphasis. Students also often earn College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) credits to bypass some prerequisite courses.
College Board offers CLEP testing, which can be translated into credits that apply toward MBA coursework in many cases. But, be sure the check with your specific program/institution to make sure that these will be applied. Students save time and money acquiring credits before enrolling. It reduces the number of courses they must take while enrolled full- or part-time.
Selectivity and admissions chances
As with undergraduate education, many MBA programs have a selective admissions process.
The more prestigious or rigorous the program, the more competitive this selection process will be. In some cases, programs only select a small percentage of applicants each year.
Prospective students should concentrate on the strength of their application as a way to demonstrate their skills, experience, collected knowledge, dedication, and future employment potential.
The admissions office considers all of these factors. An especially-persuasive essay or interview may be able to help boost the chances of an individual student being accepted into the program.
Submitting an application
Once you have compiled all of the necessary documentation and paperwork you’ll need to apply, you can usually submit your application to an MBA program online.
This is usually a fairly simple process and most online programs have prominent applications on their website.
Most online MBA programs offer enrollment periods for each incoming class, generally about twice per year. Submit your application within the correct window, so the program considers you for the right program start date.
If you have any questions or need help with the application process, you can request help from the admissions department directly. They’ll be able to answer any specific questions and provide guidance on submitting your application.
