Students who apply to MBA programs tend to be a mixed bunch, in comparison with students applying to other types of graduate programs. Prospective students may be recent undergraduates with degrees in a variety of fields spanning from business to English to accounting, or they may be seasoned professionals who wish to enhance their career prospects by taking some time off to obtain a higher degree. With this in mind, MBA admissions essays tend to be similarly varied in their subject matter, spanning everything from reflections about the business world today to anecdotes chronicling personal, real-life business experiences.

Just like there is no ‘perfect’ MBA candidate, there is also no ‘perfect’ MBA admissions essay, and the essay will differ depending upon the type of program to which the applicant is applying and his or her level of experience. However, there are some basic guidelines to keep in mind which are relevant for all business school applicants. First and foremost, it is important to focus on present and future accomplishments. Talking about the economics class you took your freshman year isn’t very impressive versus some research you recently did as part of your job on the housing market. Talking about an internship you had which sparked your passion for marketing as an undergraduate isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if you have been part of the working world for several years, it might be better to focus on your career in the here and now.

Many MBA programs will ask for specifics in terms of how their program’s design is uniquely suited to the candidate’s needs and attributes. Be wary of using a single, generic personal statement for all schools, particularly if each school is asking slightly different questions. Unlike law and medicine, MBA programs are not standardized throughout the nation and are very diverse. The schools want to know why you are a good fit for their program and the school’s institutional atmosphere, not simply that you are smart or want to make money.