MBA Prerequisites: What You Really Need to Get In
When you think about MBA prerequisites, the essential requirements for admission to a Master of Business Administration program. Also known as business school entry criteria, these are the non-negotiables that separate applicants who get in from those who don’t. It’s not just about having a good GPA or a fancy undergrad degree. Schools care more about what you’ve done since then—especially your work experience, your ability to handle quantitative work, and how clearly you can explain why you want an MBA.
Most top MBA programs expect at least two to three years of full-time work experience. Not just any job—roles where you’ve led teams, solved problems, or managed budgets. Admissions committees aren’t looking for titles; they’re looking for impact. Someone who ran a small project that saved money or improved efficiency has more weight than someone with a manager title but no real responsibility. The GMAT or GRE isn’t the only gatekeeper, but it still matters. A score below 600 can hurt your chances at competitive schools, even if you’ve got strong experience. Some schools now accept the GRE, and a few are going test-optional, but don’t assume that means you can skip it. If your score is low, you’ll need to make up for it with stronger essays or recommendations.
Letters of recommendation aren’t just formalities. They need to come from people who’ve seen you lead or contribute in a professional setting—not your college professor from five years ago. Your essays? They’re your chance to show personality. Schools read hundreds of applications that say, "I want to be a leader." What they want to hear is how you’ve already shown leadership, what you failed at, and what you learned. International students also need to prove English proficiency, usually through TOEFL or IELTS. And yes, deadlines matter. Rolling admissions sound flexible, but top programs fill up fast. Apply early, even if you’re not "perfect."
You’ll also find that some programs prefer candidates with certain backgrounds—consulting, finance, engineering—but that doesn’t mean you’re out if you’re from education or the arts. What matters is how you connect your past to your future. Why an MBA now? Why not an online certificate? Why this school? These aren’t random questions. They’re filters. The posts below break down real examples: what worked for people who got into top schools, what got others rejected, and how to turn your unique story into an advantage.
Best Bachelor's Degrees for MBA Success: Top Choices and Surprising Insights
Wondering which bachelor's degree sets you up for MBA stardom? Explore not just business, but the full range of degrees that crack the code for B-school success.
