How to get into a Top-15 MBA Program: Start Your Own Business

Section 3: Start Your Own Business

from How to get into a Top-15 MBA Program by Tim Darling

I started a business manufacturing and marketing neckties. I didn't do this to get into MBA school, but in hindsight, it was the perfect match. Think of something unique that will set you apart from the other candidates. Write parts of some of your essays about your business. For schools with an entrepreneurial angle, say how you want to 'incubate' your business in their small business incubators.

Don't have anything unique or 'diverse' in your application? Then start a business. Make sure it's a business that you can continue to run and grow if you go to business school. Mention in your essays that you can and will continue to grow it during your MBA career. If your business idea is different, then suddenly your MBA application will be too. You'll be able to add a lot of color, insights, and even excitement to your essays.

Doesn't sound like it's worth the trouble? It's up to you, but remember, you'll be competing with other applicants who do own their own businesses. Incidentally, if you're considering spending a few hundred dollars (or more) on an application consultant, why not use that money to start a business instead? Which option do you think will ultimately look better on your application?

Section 4: The Application Itself

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