Going for your MBA is a huge accomplishment, even before you get accepted to a school. But the application process can feel intense, and it’s critical to get prepared ahead of time for your MBA admissions interview. One way to get started is by covering some of the hardest interview questions for MBA applicants.
Everyone has to go through the painstaking admissions interview process. If you walk in already knowing you can tackle some of the harder questions, the rest of the interview will feel like a breeze. So, here are three of the hardest interview questions you’re likely to find throughout your MBA application process.
Hardest Interview Questions for MBA Applicants
Which other schools are you considering?
This may seem like an unfair question, as there are many ways an interviewer can judge your answer. But here are the two common reasons that an interview might ask this.
- They want to better understand how likely you are to accept admission to one of your other choices, should you get admitted.
- Getting an idea of your school selection process to understand you better.
Whatever the reason, you must be honest in your answer. To give them a glimpse into who you are, list your schools and the decision-making process behind why you chose those specific schools. If there are elements of the programs you were drawn to or resources you’re excited about, be sure to let them know.
Don’t forget to end with your excitement around the program you’re currently interviewing for and letting them know why it’s one of your top choices.
Tell me about a time when you experienced a work conflict? How did you handle it?
In many ways, an MBA interview is like a job interview. You’re heading to business school, so they want to know how you’ve dealt with issues throughout your career. With questions like these, you always want to be aware of not placing blame on anyone else. Instead, stick to what you did and how you felt it solved the conflict.
This question is more about your interactions with others and how you approach conflict resolution. Think about your answer, how you plan to tell the story, and the ways you feel you were successful in the scenario.
What school resources do you hope to use and why?
Getting your MBA at a specific school can provide resources and assistance that many people don’t have access to. Taking advantage of all the resources you’re being offered is essential, but not everyone does it.
Answering this question shows how serious you are about the program. It’s your chance to explain what you know and why this program is important to you. Which resources were you most drawn to when you researched the school? What do you have in mind when it comes to using those resources?
Don’t hold back on this question. Tell them your goals, how you’re planning to accomplish them, and how the school’s resources will help you get there. Everything from robust internship programs to a specific collection of library books can be included in this answer.
Planning for your interview ahead of time will help you prepare and appear excited about the school and all it has to offer. Practice answering these questions a few days before your interview, and you’ll be ready for anything!
