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You might be wondering: what are the best questions to ask an MBA interviewer?
If you’ve been invited to interview, congrats! Most programs do not interview everyone. Therefore, an invite is a positive sign.
In this article, we’ll discuss MBA interview prep. Specifically, we’ll discuss why your MBA interview matters and the types of interviews.
Additionally, we’ll talk about asking good questions. Then, we’ll review the types of MBA interviewers.
Finally, we’ll cover MBA questions to ask, what not to ask, and answer frequently asked questions.
Here are the topics we’ll cover:
- Why Your MBA Interview Matters
- Types of MBA Interviews
- Why Asking Good Questions Matters
- Types of MBA Interviewers
- Questions to Ask Any Interviewer
- Questions to Avoid Asking in an MBA Interview
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What’s Next?
Why Your MBA Interview Matters
The MBA interview is a critical piece of your application. MBA interviewers assess your communication and presentation skills.
Additionally, interviewers want to learn more about your experiences. Finally, interviews also enable you to form a new connection with the MBA program.
A key component of the MBA interview is asking questions. Often, MBA interviewers provide time for your questions. Therefore, you should prepare questions to demonstrate your interest in the program.
KEY FACT:
Most MBA interviewers allocate time for questions at the end of the interview.
Types of MBA Interviews
MBA programs each have different formats for the interview process. Here are the most common formats:
- Blind interviews: UVA Darden conducts blind interviews. Specifically, your interviewer will not have read your application or resume.
- Resume-based interviews: CBS conducts resume-based interviews. In other words, your interviewer will reference only your resume.
- Application-based interviews: NYU Stern conducts application-based interviews. Expect that your interviewer will read your entire application.
- Group or team-based interviews: Wharton conducts Team Based Discussions. Specifically, groups of applicants collaborate on a virtual exercise. Then, candidates join a 10-minute one-on-one interview.
By researching the interview format, you can prepare effectively.
KEY FACT:
In application-based interviews, expect your interviewer to have read your entire application.
Why Asking Good Questions Matters
Asking good questions during your MBA interview serves many goals:
- First, good questions demonstrate your preparation.
- Second, good questions help you learn more about the program. Additionally, they demonstrate your fit.
- Third, good questions can make the conversation more engaging.
- Finally, good questions demonstrate that you care to make a strong impression.
TTP PRO TIP:
Prepare a list of questions and bring them to your in-person or virtual interview.
Types of MBA Interviewers
Your MBA interview may be conducted by an admissions officer, a current student, or an alum. Each brings a different perspective to your MBA interview.
Here is a breakdown of the interviewers:
Admissions Officer
Admissions officers have deep knowledge of the MBA program and admissions strategy. Therefore, they have strong insight into how your candidacy will be evaluated.
Alternatively, admissions officers may know less about the current student experience. Additionally, she may have fewer personal anecdotes.
Questions to ask an admissions officer include:
- How do you assess candidate fit beyond the application?
- What are the most common success factors for your students?
- What are you most excited about for the upcoming school year?
- In your opinion, what distinguishes this program from its peers?
- What do you wish prospective students knew about your program?
KEY FACT:
Admissions officers know programs well but may be less familiar with the current student experience.
Current MBA Student
Current students sometimes conduct MBA interviews. Generally, student interviewers are in their second year. However, some programs also include first-year students.
MBA student interviewers provide some of the most relevant insights into programs and their specializations. Additionally, they can share personal experiences, strategic networking tips, and student success stories.
However, students might not be the most knowledgeable about admissions. Further, their knowledge may be limited to their own experiences.
Questions to ask a current MBA student include:
- How did you choose this program?
- What do you wish you’d known before starting? What surprised you the most?
- Why would this program be a strong fit for me?
- What has been your favorite class or professor so far? Why?
- What have you enjoyed doing most outside of class?
- Which clubs and extracurriculars are you involved in?
KEY FACT:
Student interviewers can provide insight into specializations, clubs, and extracurriculars.
Alum
MBA alums conduct interviews for many programs. Successful alumni bring a unique perspective.
Additionally, alums can discuss how the MBA made an impact on their careers. Generally, alums use a conversational approach.
Alternatively, alums aren’t always up to date on MBA programming. Furthermore, alumni insights may not reflect the current student experience.
Questions to ask MBA alums include:
- Why did you pursue an MBA?
- How did the MBA prepare you for your current career?
- Which experiences in the program had a lasting impact?
- How often do you engage with fellow alums and students?
- How involved are you with alumni networking?
- How has the alumni network facilitated your career?
- What advice would you give to incoming students?
KEY FACT:
Alumni interviewers generally use a conversational approach.
These questions carefully consider who is interviewing you and the expertise he or she brings.
Questions to Ask Any Interviewer
Here are some questions that you can ask any interviewer:
- How does the program support students in building their personal brands?
- How does the program help career switchers?
- How does the program support diversity and inclusion?
- What informal meetings or networking events should students take advantage of?
- What role do alumni play in mentoring and supporting students?
- What advice would you give to incoming students to maximize their MBA experience?
TTP PRO TIP:
Open-ended questions inspire the most interesting answers.
Questions to Avoid Asking in an MBA Interview
MBA admissions interviews are a great way to learn more about your target programs.
However, you should research some topics on your own. Specifically, avoid asking questions about:
- basic admissions stats
- program rankings
- student profile information, including test scores and GPAs
- tuition costs and living expenses
- scholarships and financial aid
- employment outcomes and salaries
- your chances of gaining admission
TTP PRO TIP:
Don’t ask questions that can be researched easily — instead, review the questions discussed in this article.
Key Takeaways
The MBA interview is an opportunity to communicate your enthusiasm for the program and share your experiences. Additionally, it gives you a chance to bolster your candidacy.
Follow the suggestions in this article to prepare your questions. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do MBA interviews last?
MBA interviews generally last 30–60 minutes. However, length depends on the interview format and the interviewer’s schedule.
What should I wear to my MBA interview?
We recommend business formal attire. Remember, this is a professional interview and an opportunity to make a strong impression.
Should I bring anything to my MBA interview?
If you’re interviewing in person, bring a pad of paper, a pen, and a bottle of water. Additionally, list your questions ahead of time.
What are good questions to ask my MBA interviewer?
Read the suggestions in this article. We’ve provided several questions to ask all types of interviewers.
Are virtual interviews less valuable?
No. All MBA interviews are considered equally. In fact, some programs only conduct virtual interviews.
Are student interviews less valuable?
No. All MBA interviews, regardless of the interviewer, are considered equally.
What’s Next?
Creating questions is just one aspect of MBA interview prep. If you’d like help preparing for your MBA interview, we’ll help! Target Test Prep’s experienced MBA admissions consultants will facilitate mock interviews and provide feedback.
