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Boston College Supplemental Essays 2023-2024

Boston college supplemental essays 2023–2024.

A private liberal arts college in the town of Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Boston College is ranked among America’s top 50 colleges by U.S. News. This top school has secured a place on many college lists due to its urban location and world-class academics. If you’re wondering how to get into Boston College, a standout application starts with well-crafted Boston College supplemental essays. 

Successful Boston College applications feature strong Boston College essays—just one, to be exact. Boston College supplemental essays respond to one of five Boston College essay prompts. We have provided the Boston College essay prompts for 2023-2024 Boston College essays below.

Here, you’ll learn how to approach the Boston College essay prompts, plus some brainstorming exercises to help you get writing. We’ll also discuss additional tips for writing Boston College supplemental essays.

Given the low Boston College acceptance rate, you should do all you can to stand out. We hope this guide helps you learn how to approach the Boston College supplemental essays with confidence.

Quick Facts: Boston College Supplemental Essays

• Boston College Acceptance Rate: 19%— U.S. News ranks Boston College as a most selective school.
• 1 (400-word) essay
• Boston College application: Boston College admissions accepts the Common Application , which includes both your personal statement and your Boston College essay. Boston College is also part of Questbridge .
• #1 Boston College Essays Tip: You should read the Boston College essay prompts carefully, choosing one you can answer thoroughly in your Boston College essays. This will maximize your chances against the relatively low Boston College acceptance rate.

Please note that essay requirements are subject to change each admissions cycle, and portions of this article may have been written before the final publication of the most recent guidelines. For the most up-to-date information on essay requirements, check the university’s admissions website. 

Does Boston College require a supplemental essay?

Yes. Along with your Common App personal statement , you must complete one of five possible Boston College supplemental essays.

To complete the Boston College essays, you will select just one of several Boston College essay prompts. However, while you’ll only complete one supplementary essay, that doesn’t mean Boston College cares any less about your supplements. In fact, students’ responses to the Boston College essay prompts play a critical role in admissions decisions. 

Boston College admissions uses a holistic application review process. In other words, extracurriculars, academic achievements, and Boston College essays all impact a student’s admissions prospects. While the low Boston College acceptance rate might seem intimidating , well-crafted Boston College supplemental essays can make a huge difference.

The power of a single essay

The Boston College application isn’t necessarily easier just because there’s a single essay. After all, how hard was it to write your Common App personal statement? Even choosing one of the Boston College essay prompts can be challenging.

To start your writing process, think critically about the prompts available. Which of the Boston College essay prompts speaks to you? Moreover, can you write a compelling essay in response? Well-written Boston College supplemental essays come from carefully selected prompts. Students should write Boston College essays that reflect their most impactful moments of self-realization and personal growth. 

Not sure how to start writing your Boston College essays? Keep reading to learn more about Boston College admissions, including tips on how to approach Boston College essays and overcome the Boston College acceptance rate.

What are the Boston College essay prompts?

Students have options when it comes to the Boston College supplemental essays. There are five Boston College essay prompts to choose from for the 2023-2024 application cycle (400 words or less):

Boston College Supplemental Essay Prompts:

1. each year at university convocation, our incoming class engages in reflective dialogue with the author of a common text. what book by a living author would you recommend for your incoming class to read, and why would this be an important shared text , 2. at boston college, we draw upon the jesuit tradition of finding worthwhile conversation partners. some support our viewpoints while others challenge them. who fulfills this role in your life please cite a specific conversation you had where this conversation partner challenged your perspective or you challenged theirs., 3. in her november 2019 ted talk, “ the danger of a single story ,” chimamanda ngozi adichie warned viewers against assigning people a “single story” through assumptions about their nationality, appearance, or background.  discuss a time when someone defined you by a single story. what challenges did this present and how did you overcome them, 4. boston college’s founding in 1863 was in response to society’s call. that call came from an immigrant community in boston seeking a jesuit education to foster social mobility. still today, the university empowers its students to use their education to address society’s greatest needs. which of today’s local or global issues is of particular concern to you and how might you use your boston college education to address it, 5. for human-centered engineering major applicants only: one goal of a jesuit education is to prepare students to serve the common good. human-centered engineering at boston college integrates technical knowledge, creativity, and a humanistic perspective to address societal challenges and opportunities. what societal problems are important to you and how will you use your hce education to solve them, choosing a prompt.

Aside from applicants for the Human-Centered Engineering (HCE) major, everyone should respond to one of the Boston College essay prompts. Students applying to the HCE major must respond only to the last of the Boston College essay prompts. So, students will just write two Boston College essays in their application: one school-specific supplemental essay and the Common App personal essay. 

The first step towards completing Boston College supplemental essays is to review each of the Boston College essay prompts. So, let’s examine the Boston College essay prompts and the questions you’ll need to answer in your response. We’ll also provide some reflection questions for each of the Boston College essay prompts. 

Refer to these questions as you’re drafting your Boston College essays. These prompt-specific reflection questions will help keep you on track as you draft and revise. 

Boston College Essay Prompts #1

Each year at university convocation, our incoming class engages in reflective dialogue with the author of a common text. what book by a living author would you recommend for your incoming class to read, and why would this be an important shared text.

The first of the Boston College essay prompts asks you to choose a book you’d like to share with your peers. Strong Boston College supplemental essays will recommend a book that embodies the tradition of Boston College’s First Year Academic Convocation . This event asks students to reflect upon their faith and engage in conversation with others. However, this doesn’t mean that Boston College supplemental essays must focus on a religious text. Instead, simply choose a text that speaks to how you engage with the world.

Books for these Boston College supplemental essays should be rich enough to spark and support a deep discussion. After all, the most important part of these Boston College essays is not which book you choose, but why. So, what important questions does this book raise, and how would you investigate them with your peers?

Drafting your response

If you are having trouble narrowing down your book selection, take a look at Boston College’s past common texts. Consider why they were chosen and why your book matters to you. How can you include admirable qualities in Boston College supplemental essays?

However, be sure that if you decide to respond to the first of the Boston College supplemental essays, you fulfill the requirements. That means that you must choose a book by a living author. By adding this requisite to the prompt, students are forced to choose a book that is likely more relevant to current societal issues. So, use this opportunity to choose a book that truly means something to you and show why it’s important to share with your peers. How has it impacted you? Moreover, what might your peers gain from reading it? 

Reflection Questions for Boston College Essays

• Do you choose a book that you genuinely enjoy and wish to share?
• Does your chosen book reflect the values behind the First Year Academic Convocation?
• Do you provide a compelling argument for why this book is worthy of discussion?

Boston College Essay Prompt #2

At boston college, we draw upon the jesuit tradition of finding worthwhile conversation partners. some support our viewpoints while others challenge them. who fulfills this role in your life please cite a specific conversation you had where this conversation partner challenged your perspective or you challenged theirs..

Boston College supplemental essays responding to the second prompt will talk about a favorite conversation partner. Strong Boston College supplemental essays show the author engages deeply with their world and share that engagement with others. While some Boston College essay prompts ask about your engagement with Boston College resources, this prompt centers around how you think and express your beliefs.

Boston College supplemental essays answering the second of the Boston College essay prompts must reflect on a specific conversation and conversation partner. The prompt offers you two approaches: show a moment you challenged another’s perspective or one when your perspective was challenged.

Of course, make sure to choose a conversation where this happened. Basically, don’t choose a moment in which you had a beautiful conversation with zero disagreement or discussion. A well-written response to the second of the Boston College essay prompts will show how you eloquently supported or discussed your perspective. You could also write about how your perspective changed through a meaningful discussion. 

Choosing your topic

When considering who to write about, think about who shares difficult discussions with you. Sure, you might love talking to your friend about your favorite TV show. But would you talk with them about the social problems that make your palms itch? In addition, think about what your discussions with this person says about you and your reasoning skills.

These Boston College supplemental essays should still center around you, the author. Before choosing a prompt for any essay, consider whether you have a personal connection that you can write about. In this case, the discussion needs to be meaningful while also fully answering the prompt. 

One important question to consider for the second of the Boston College essay prompts is: can you answer the prompt directly and adequately while keeping yourself at its center? The same applies when considering any of the Boston College essay prompts.

Once again, remember that good Boston College supplemental essays center around the author. Whoever you write about, don’t spend too much time describing that person. Rather, focus on the ideas you discuss, the dynamics of your conversation, and how it inspires your own reflection. Show the Boston College admissions team that you’re a critical thinker who engages deeply with those around you.

• Do your Boston College essays address both your partner and what you discussed in a specific conversation?
• Do you keep yourself—not your conversation partner—at the center of your essay?
• Does your essay show that you enjoy critical thinking and in-depth discussion about complex subjects?

Boston College Essay Prompt #3

In her November 2019 Ted Talk, “ The Danger of a Single Story ,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie warned viewers against assigning people a “single story” through assumptions about their nationality, appearance, or background.  Discuss a time when someone defined you by a single story. What challenges did this present and how did you overcome them?

The third of the Boston College supplemental essays may seem similar to other college essays you’ve encountered. It’s a unique spin on the diversity and culture essay. In the third of the Boston College essay prompts, students are asked to recall a moment in their lives when they’ve been boxed into a “single story.”

As the prompt mentions, students might discuss themes like nationality, appearance, or background. However, the term “single story” leaves things quite open-ended. Students could choose to respond using any instance in which they’ve been defined or judged by a certain label or visible aspect. 

Remember that like all of the other Boston College supplemental essays, your response should focus on you and your personal growth. So, while the moment itself is important, what’s more important is your learning from that experience. Successful responses to the third of the Boston College essay prompts will briefly describe the moment when the student was placed in a particular box. Then, they’ll focus on how the student reacted and moved forward from the situation. 

Preparing to respond

Additionally, it would be wise to actually watch this particular TED Talk if you choose to respond to this prompt. Your Boston College supplemental essays will benefit from inspiration. After watching the TED Talk, you’ll have a better understanding of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s main point. That way, you’ll know how to use Adichie’s ideas to contextualize your own experiences. 

Like some of the other Boston College essay prompts, this question asks you to show the Boston College admissions team that you think deeply and critically about yourself and the world around you. Effective Boston College supplemental essays should address how your own thinking and reflection changed based on the experience. How did being defined as a “single story” affect you? Try to make connections between your experience, your realization, and how it changed you.

• Is your “single story” experience clearly defined?
• Do you expand on how being labeled a certain way impacted you?
• Is it clear how you’ve personally grown from the experience? What realizations were made, and how will they impact your future?

Boston College Essay Prompt #4

Boston college’s founding in 1863 was in response to society’s call. that call came from an immigrant community in boston seeking a jesuit education to foster social mobility. still today, the university empowers its students to use their education to address society’s greatest needs. which of today’s local or global issues is of particular concern to you and how might you use your boston college education to address it.

Boston College supplemental essays for the fourth of our Boston College essay prompts have to discuss a personally important societal issue. So, your response should consider society as a whole–locally or globally. Whatever issue you choose, make sure it is something that an education at Boston College can help answer.

Connect your chosen issue to specific departments, learning styles, school values, or aspects of the Boston College community. These should have come up while you were searching for colleges and researching Boston College. This will help demonstrate why Boston College is the best place for you to explore your curiosities.

Once again, strong Boston College supplemental essays are both specific with the features they highlight and personal in connecting them to the author. So, use this prompt to highlight what makes your perspective unique.

Keep it personal

However, don’t get too hung up on trying to describe Boston College and its offerings. At the end of the day, once again, effective Boston College supplemental essays are about the author. The question you discuss should help the Boston College admissions team learn something important about you. How will you engage with opportunities and communities on campus to address the societal issue at hand?

• Do you clearly state a problem and why it matters to you?
• Strong Boston College supplemental essays give specific details about the school: do you show that you did your research?
• Do you connect facts or features of the school with your interests and background?
• Do you present new information not included elsewhere in your Boston College application? If not, do you expand on something you’ve mentioned before?

Boston College Essay Prompt #6

For human-centered engineering major applicants only: one goal of a jesuit education is to prepare students to serve the common good. human-centered engineering at boston college integrates technical knowledge, creativity, and a humanistic perspective to address societal challenges and opportunities. what societal problems are important to you and how will you use your hce education to solve them.

The fifth of the Boston College essay prompts asks about problems you are passionate about solving. Impactful Boston College supplemental essays focus on societal issues—in other words, conditions or behaviors with wide-reaching negative consequences. This might include poverty, racism, or climate change. Boston College supplemental essays should be genuine and passionate; choose an issue you’re really concerned about.

These Boston College supplemental essays should reflect, in specific terms, why this issue matters to you. As with all strong Boston college essays, give concrete reasoning and use specific examples. Moreover, make sure to tie your argument to your own experiences or values. Readers of these Boston College supplemental essays should understand exactly why and how deeply the author cares.

Do your research

The last of the Boston College essay prompts asks how your HCE education will help you solve these issues. These Boston College essays, therefore, share some qualities with a “Why Boston College” essay.

So, do your research. Check out the HCE Program page to learn about the structure, curriculum, and unique features HCE offers students. What puts this program over other colleges on your list? Remember, applicants outside of Human-Centered Engineering applicants should answer other Boston College essay prompts.

By integrating specific facts about Boston College’s HCE program into your response, you can show the Boston College admissions team you’ve done your research. This can give your Boston College application an edge, especially given the low Boston College acceptance rate. 

• Are you applying for the HCE program? If not, you must choose one of the other Boston College essay prompts.
• Effective Boston College supplemental essays are direct: do you state clearly the societal issue you care about?
• Similar to the first of our Boston College essay prompts, do you give concrete examples of HCE resources?

Selecting a prompt & drafting your Boston College essay

So, after reading the Boston College essay prompts, it’s time to choose. Which one speaks to you? Of the Boston College essay prompts, yours should best showcase you and why you’re a good fit at Boston College. If you’re stuck between several Boston College essay prompts, you might try your hand at a ten-minute free-write .

You should also highlight why Boston College is a good fit for you. Why is it on your college list ? At the end of the day, you’re the one who’ll ultimately accept an offer and attend. Why do you feel Boston College is a place you want to be? Whichever one of the Boston College essay prompts you select, ensure you can answer every part of it. 

Starting the writing process

Once you’ve read the Boston College essay prompts and selected yours, it’s time to start writing. Sitting down and writing your first draft is the hardest part. So, don’t worry about making your Boston College supplemental essays perfect—just focus on getting words on paper. In fact, you might draft several Boston College supplemental essays for different Boston College essay prompts. That’s fine, too!

Start by addressing the big ideas, then go back and make sure you’ve answered the Boston College essay prompts entirely. Then, you can start fine-tuning your Boston College supplemental essays. Review each paragraph—does every part of your Boston College essays connect to you, your worldview, or your beliefs? Remember, effective Boston College supplemental essays put the author and their passions or interests at the center.

Last, but certainly not least, make time to review your Boston College essays thoroughly. Do you have any spelling or grammar mistakes that might distract your reader from the content of your essay? Do you have any logical errors or awkward turns of phrase? Revising—not just drafting—is the key to impactful, unique Boston College supplemental essays. So, the more your revise, the stronger your essays will be. You can also ask a trusted adult to help review your essay.

How do I write the Boston College supplemental essay?

Boston College supplemental essays show Boston College admissions what kind of student you are and what kind you can become. Moreover, the low Boston College acceptance rate makes standout Boston College supplemental essays even more important. However, don’t let the Boston College acceptance rate scare you. Just as there isn’t one formula to impress Boston College admissions, there isn’t one correct way to write Boston College supplemental essays.

Before beginning your Boston College application, consider experiences that have shaped who you are and how you see the world. Reflect on your accomplishments, the challenges you’ve faced, your successes, and your failures. While the low Boston College acceptance rate might seem discouraging, you can create a Boston College application that stands out .

Getting started

Before tackling Boston College essays, brainstorm two lists: things that are and aren’t reflected on your Boston College application. Experiences related to your classes or extracurriculars will be on your transcript or activities section . These can go under “Things reflected in my application.” If you’ve already written your personal statement for the Common App, put that topic in this list, too. Put other experiences regarding your family, your beliefs, or anything else under “Things that are not reflected in my application.”

Boston College essays that introduce new topics should be very clear about why these topics matter matter. As always, give discrete details about Boston College that are relevant to whichever of the Boston College prompts you chose. At the same time, don’t just throw course names and faculty titles around without context. Instead, relate those details to the interests and identities that you consider most important.

Highlight new aspects of yourself

It’s absolutely fine to write Boston College essays on topics mentioned elsewhere in your application. However, if you try to draft Boston College supplemental essays like this, build on the story your application already tells. Remember, Boston College supplemental essays should share something new with the Boston College admissions team. If you’re not giving entirely new information, be sure your Boston College essays provide a new perspective.

As you’re drafting Boston College supplemental essays—perhaps trying multiple Boston College essay prompts—consider the following questions.

Reflection Questions for BC Essays:

• Do my Boston College supplemental essays answer all elements of the prompt?
• Do my Boston College essays engage the reader with specific details about myself and about Boston College?
• Do my Boston College supplemental essays tell my story in a unique and compelling way?
• Do my Boston College essays answer the question “Why Boston College?”
• Do my Boston College supplemental essays have spelling/grammatical errors?

Don’t skip the editing phase

Especially if writing Boston College supplemental essays is really challenging, it can be tempting to submit a first draft. Forget editing, you’re tired of looking at this thing! But if you know the first thing about how to get into Boston College, you’ll know editing is crucial. Make plenty of time to leave your drafts alone before returning to them for the editing round. Then, you’ll be able to look at your writing with fresh eyes.

Don’t just fix technical errors: review your essays for content to make them shine . Additionally, read essay examples to see what worked well and how you can improve your own essays. Moreover, ask someone you trust, like a family member or teacher, if your essays portray you accurately. Reflect on the questions included with the Boston College supplemental essays above when revising.

Is the Boston College essay important?

Absolutely. Along with personal statements, Boston College essays provide Boston College admissions an opportunity to hear about you through your own perspective. They should give a fuller picture of you than your transcript and activities lists. Ideally, your Boston College supplemental essays will show your ability to reflect and learn from certain experiences. In fact, all of the Boston College essay prompts allow students to showcase their personal growth. By highlighting your growth mindset, you can ensure your application stands out. 

Boston College supplemental essays also let you reflect on a key aspect of your life. Read each of the Boston College essay prompts, selecting the prompt for which you can draft effective Boston College essays. Starting off on the right foot will help you overcome the low Boston College acceptance rate.

Showcase writing ability

Personal statements and Boston College supplemental essays also give Boston College admissions a sense of your writing ability. After all, any school matching the Boston College acceptance rate will have a rigorous curriculum. Furthermore, as a liberal arts college, Boston College will certainly call upon your writing skills regardless of your major. Can you efficiently and clearly convey ideas? Additionally, can you engage readers of your Boston College essays?

If you enroll at Boston College, you’ll have a lot of writing ahead of you. Therefore, Boston College admissions wants strong Boston College supplemental essays that show evidence of drafting, editing, and proofreading. These are all skills that you will use if you attend Boston College. So, effective Boston College supplemental essays show that the author has what it takes to succeed at Boston College.

Overcoming the Low Boston College Acceptance Rate

As mentioned in the Quick Facts, the Boston College acceptance rate for the class of 2025 was 19%. The Boston College acceptance rate places Boston College among the top 100 most selective colleges and universities in the country. As the Boston College acceptance rate suggests, Boston College is a competitive school.

In light of the low Boston College acceptance rate, you should think critically about how to get into Boston College. High test scores won’t necessarily be enough. According to the U.S. News report of Boston College admissions, half of admitted applicants had an SAT score between 1420 and 1530 or an ACT score between 33 and 34. The decreasing Boston College acceptance rate reflects these competitive scores.

Given the low Boston College acceptance rate, Boston College supplemental essays are extremely important to every Boston College application. While the Boston College acceptance rate may seem intimidating, there’s one thing every admitted student has in common: they impressed Boston College admissions by writing compelling Boston College supplemental essays. For your best chance against the Boston College acceptance rate, you should craft unique, authentic, and engaging Boston College essays.

What are the admission requirements for Boston College?

Remember, prospective students can complete a Boston College application using the Common Application or Questbridge Application. Note that Boston College does not accept the Coalition Application. An application must include:

Boston College Admission Requirements:

• An official transcript
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement
• One of your drafted Boston College supplemental essays.

As you can see, Boston College supplemental essays are just one aspect of your application. However, Boston College essays are essential to the Boston College admissions process, especially as the Boston College acceptance rate declines.

Declining acceptance rates

The Boston College acceptance rate has steadily decreased over the past five years. As more students have begun applying to more schools, acceptance rates across the nation have become more competitive. On top of that, the pandemic forced many colleges and universities to adopt test-optional policies. Consequently, even more students applied to college, especially competitive schools like Boston College and the Ivies . The Boston College acceptance rate from last year definitely reflects this uptick in applicants.

Boston College admissions has made their 2023-2024 admissions cycle test-optional as well. If you so choose —or, of course, are unable—you don’t need to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, if you don’t submit test scores, Boston College admissions will place greater emphasis on the rest of your application. This includes Boston College essays, so make your choice wisely. Even if your standardized test scores are solidly in the middle—or even slightly below average—submitting them may not hurt.

Additional Tips for the Boston College essay

Boston college supplemental essays top tips, #1- mark your calendar.

Make sure you give yourself adequate time to complete your application and write your Boston College supplemental essays. Try making an application calendar including the Boston College admissions deadlines . The November 1st deadline for Early Decision I has already passed for 2022. However, Early Decision II and Regular Decision are both due  January 1st. From there, work backward and set deadlines for choosing a prompt, completing your first draft, second draft, and so on. Be sure to plan ahead so you don’t have to spend all of winter break drafting Boston College supplemental essays.

#2- Create a checklist

As you respond to the  Boston College essay prompts, see if you can successfully answer the reflection questions for each one. And here are some more general questions:

• Do I answer every part of the Boston College essay prompts?
• Does my essay reflect my experiences and how they’ve contributed to who I am? 
• Have I included specific details in my essay?
• Do I avoid any spelling/grammar errors?
• Does my essay tell a clear and compelling story?

#3- Get a second opinion

Once you have some solid drafts of your Boston College essays, ask someone you trust to look over it. This might be a guardian, a counselor, a neighbor, or a teacher. Another reader will be able to catch grammar or spelling errors you might have missed. They can also give feedback on clarity, flow, and style . Moreover, if you’re stuck between two responses to Boston College essay prompts, maybe they can tell you which they prefer. Be sure to complete drafts well ahead of the deadline to give them plenty of time to give you thoughtful feedback.

Boston College Admissions

Want to hear more from Boston College’s undergraduate admissions team on approaching the Boston College supplemental essay? Check out this video from the senior assistant director below.

Boston College Supplemental Essay: Final Thoughts

When thinking about how to get into Boston College, well-crafted Boston College supplemental essays should be top of your list. As you review and respond to the Boston College essay prompts, don’t let the low Boston College acceptance rate deter you from applying. If you believe Boston College’s Jesuit Catholic education will help you achieve your goals, submit the strongest application you can.

The more you edit your Boston College supplemental essays, the stronger they will be. Take your time with the Boston College essay prompts and remember to draft, revise, and proofread. Whichever one of the Boston College essay prompts you choose, your Boston College essays should answer, “Why Boston College?”

Look on the bright side!

Once again, don’t let the low Boston College acceptance rate discourage you. Boston College admissions wants to accept students from a diverse range of backgrounds who will enrich their campus community and make a positive difference in the world. Don’t be afraid to dream about the kind of future you want to build for yourself. If you can imagine how Boston College will help you reach it, you can better show why you deserve admission. Remember to be yourself and take pride in your experiences. If you’re genuine and authentic in your Boston College supplemental essay, your personality will shine through.

This Boston College supplemental essays guide was written by Sarah Kaminski and Gina Goosby.   Looking for more admissions support? Click  here  to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. I n fact, d uring your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how  CollegeAdvisor.com  can support you in the college application process.

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2023-2024 MBA Essays: Tips for Carroll, Boston College

Lucky for MBA applicants, Boston College’s Carroll School of Management tends to stick to the same prompts year-on-year, which means it’s never too early to get started! Wondering where to start, what to write? No worries, we have all the tips you need to get a nice start on writing a quality essay for the Carroll School of Management.  

Carroll School is a Jesuit Catholic university that focuses on intellectual curiosity and critical analysis, providing their students with the vision and skills to advance their careers and help others. Through the story you relate in your essay, the admissions council is looking to see if you reflect the same values that the school does. Carroll is looking for students who are willing to engage in rigorous coursework that encompasses knowledge from other fields of experience. The best way to represent that you possess those qualities is through the type of essay you choose to write. 

It’s crucial to pick the right experience to discuss in your essay, and the different types of prompts help narrow that down for you. Keep reading for a closer look at the different types of essays, and how best to utilize them in order to write a stand-out essay for CSOM. 

The Career Goals Essay

You’re not the only one hoping you’ll have a job after you’ve graduated with your MBA. Admissions committees are looking for students who are motivated and clear in their intentions so that when they get a job post-grad, they’ll be more willing to speak positively of their experience in the program. And, of course, in the hopes that their alumni will earn enough money to become a donor to the school one day.  

There are three aspects to the career goals essay: 

• What you want your future profession to look like.
• Why an MBA is necessary to advance your career.
• Particularly, why a degree from the Carroll School will be most beneficial to you and your job plan. 

Your aspirations need to be convincing, ambitious, and realistic. Carroll is looking for applicants who have meaningful goals grounded in their past experiences, and it’s important that you relate that notion in your essay, however it applies to your experience in life. During your time in the program, you’re urged to continuously reflect on who you are as a person, who you wish to be, and how you can use your skills to benefit the world.

• Career Goals Please discuss how you plan to achieve your short and long term career goals following graduation from Boston College. What challenges will you face and how will you leverage your academic and professional experiences to achieve these goals?

Writing strong, coherent, genuine stories is an essential part of your MBA application. These essays are meant to help you stand out among many other applicants, so it is worth your time to do the work and write about situations unique to your life and that you truly learned from. Visit our process page to understand how Menlo Coaching can help you with your MBA essays for the Carroll School of Management. 

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50 MBA Essays That Got Applicants Admitted To Harvard & Stanford

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What Matters? and What More? is a collection of 50 application essays written by successful MBA candidates to Harvard Business School and Stanford Graduate School of Business

I sat alone one Saturday night in a boardroom in Eastern Oregon, miles from home, my laptop lighting the room. I was painstakingly reviewing a complex spreadsheet of household energy consumption data, cell by cell. ‘Why am I doing this to myself? For remote transmission lines?’…I felt dejected. I’d felt that way before, during my summer at JP Morgan, standing alone in the printing room at 3 a.m., binding decks for a paper mill merger that wouldn’t affect my life in the least.

That’s how an analyst at an MBB firm started his MBA application essay to Stanford Graduate School of Business. His point: In a well-crafted essay, he confronts the challenge of finding meaning in his work and a place where he can make a meaningful difference. That is what really matters most to him, and his answer to Stanford’s iconic MBA application essay helped get him defy the formidable odds of acceptance and gain an admit to the school.

Getting into the prestigious MBA programs at either Stanford Graduate School of Business or Harvard Business School are among the most difficult journeys any young professional can make.

NEARLY 17,000 CANDIDATES APPLIED TO HARVARD & STANFORD LAST YEAR. 1,500 GOT IN

This collection of 50 successful HBS and GSB essays, with smart commentary, can be downloaded for $60

They are two of the most selective schools, routinely rejecting nine or more out of every ten applicants. Last year alone, 16,628 candidates applied to both schools; just 1,520 gained an acceptance, a mere 9.1% admit rate.

Business school admissions are holistic, meaning that while standardized test scores and undergraduate transcripts are a critical part of the admissions process, they aren’t the whole story. In fact, the stories that applicants tell the schools in the form of essays can be a critical component of a successful application.

So what kinds of stories are successful applicants to Harvard and Stanford telling their admission officers? For the first time ever, a newly published collection of 50 of these essays from current MBA students at these two schools has been published. In ten cases, applicants share the essays they wrote in applying to both schools so you can see whether they merely did a cut-and-paste job or approached the task anew. The 188-page book, What Matters? and What More?, gains its title from the two iconic essay prompts at Harvard and Stanford.

THOUGHTFUL CRITIQUES OF THE ESSAYS

Stanford can easily boast having the most difficult question posed to MBA applicants in any given year: In 650 words or less, candidates must tell the school what matters most to them and why. Harvard gives applicants ample room to hang themselves, providing no word limit at all, “What more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy?”

One makes this unusual collection of essays powerful are the thoughtful critiques by the founders of two MBA admissions consulting firms, Jeremy Shinewald of mbaMission and Liza Weale of Gatehouse Admissions. They write overviews of each essay in the book and then tear apart portions by paragraphs to either underline a point or address a weakness. The book became available to download for $60 a pop.

As I note in a foreword to the collection, published in partnership with Poets&Quants, the essay portion of an application is where a person can give voice to who they are, what they have achieved so far, and what they imagine their future to be. Yet crafting a powerful and introspective essay can be incredibly daunting as you stare at a blank computer screen.

APPLICANTS OPEN UP WITH INTIMATE STORIES THAT SHOW VULNERABILITY

One successful applicant to Harvard Business School begins his essay by conveying a deeply personal story: The time his father was told that he had three months to live, with his only hope being a double lung transplant. had to undergo a lung transplant. His opening line: “Despite all we had been through in recent years, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I asked my mother one summer evening in Singapore, ‘What role did I play during those tough times?’”

For this candidate to Stanford Graduate School of Business, the essay provided a chance to creatively engage admission readers about what matters most to him–equality-by cleverly using zip codes as a hook.

60605, 60606, 60607.

These zip codes are just one digit apart, but the difference that digit makes in someone’s life is unfathomable. I realized this on my first day as a high school senior. Leafing through my out-of- date, stained, calculus textbook, I kept picturing the new books that my friend from a neighboring (more affluent) district had. As college acceptances came in, I saw educational inequality’s more lasting effects—my friends from affluent districts that better funded education were headed to prestigious universities, while most of my classmates were only accepted by the local junior college. I was unsettled that this divergence wasn’t the students’ doing, but rather institutionalized by the state’s education system. Since this experience, I realized that the fight for education equality will be won through equal opportunity. Overcoming inequality, to ensure that everyone has a fair shake at success, is what matters most to me.

HOW AN APPLICANT TO BOTH SCHOOLS ALTERED HIS ESSAYS

Yet another candidate, who applied to both Harvard and Stanford, writes about being at but not fully present at his friend’s wedding.

The morning after serving as my friend’s best man, I was waiting for my Uber to the airport and—as usual—scrolling through my phone,” he wrote. “I had taken seemingly hundreds of photos of the event, posting in real time to social media, but had not really looked through them. With growing unease, I noticed people and things that had not registered with me the night before and realized I had been so preoccupied with capturing the occasion on my phone that I had essentially missed the whole thing. I never learned the name of the woman beside me at the reception. I could not recall the wedding cake flavor. I never introduced myself to my friend’s grandfather from Edmonton. I was so mortified that before checking into my flight, I turned my phone off and stuffed it into my carry-on.

The Stanford version of his essay is more compact. In truth, it’s more succinctly written and more satisfying because it is to the point. By stripping away all but the most critical pieces of his narrative, the candidate focuses his essay entirely on his central point: the battle of man versus technology.

Even if you’re not applying to business school, the essays are entertaining and fun to read. Sure, precious few are New Yorker worthy. In fact, many are fairly straightforward tales, simply told. What the successful essays clearly show is that there is no cookie-cutter formula or paint-by-the-numbers approach. Some start bluntly and straightforwardly, without a compelling or even interesting opening. Some meander through different themes. Some betray real personality and passion. Others are frankly boring. If a pattern of any kind could be discerned, it is how genuine the essays read.

The greatest benefit of reading them? For obsessive applicants to two of the very best business schools, they’ll take a lot of pressure off of you because they are quite imperfect.

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3 Strong Boston University Essay Examples

Boston University is a top research university in the heart of the city. With a fairly low acceptance rate, admissions is pretty selective, and writing strong essays is essential to standing out.

BU requires one essay for all applicants, and has an additional information prompt that is optional. Applicants to the Accelerated Program in Liberal Arts and Medicine have another essay, and Honors College applicants have two additional essays.

In this post, we’ll then go over example essays from a real applicants, analyzing what they did well, and what could be improved.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our BU essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts. 

Essay Example #1

Prompt: What about being a student at Boston University most excites you? (250 words)

I am most excited by Boston University’s Societal Engineer vision. As an aspiring engineer with a strong interest in government, I love that BU encourages engineering majors to strengthen their communication skills and global awareness. 

Academically speaking, I would explore political science courses through BU Hub requirements like Historical Consciousness and Ethical Reasoning. In addition, I would explore the world through the semester-abroad programs offered by BU for engineering majors. If admitted, I would love to study in Grenoble (and brush up on my French!) as a sophomore.

Beyond academics, BU’s student groups also align with the Social Engineer vision. BU’s Engineers Without Borders mission spans both engineering and communication, as their project in Zambia involved both in developing sanitation systems and presenting posters on these systems to the community. Given my strong desire to help others through engineering, I would devote my time and energy to EWB’s projects at BU. 

I am also intrigued by BU’s political student groups, and I appreciate that BU’s student government offers students from all colleges leadership as Senators. I work closely with my high school’s administration as the vice president of our honor society and the overseer of student elections, and I would enjoy doing something similar at BU.

At BU, I can see myself tinkering with Autodesk Inventor late into the night and petitioning legislatures to fix gerrymandered districts. Because BU’s Societal Engineer vision would encourage both my STEM and humanities interests, I am very excited about being a student at BU. 

What the Essay Did Well

This essay is a strong response that adequately conveys what the student hopes to obtain from an education from Boston University. The applicant begins with a straightforward statement that expresses their interests in engineering and government.

Establishing this cross-disciplinary interest immediately sets the candidate apart from other engineering majors and makes their response more unique. By mentioning the intersection of engineering and government, the candidate hits upon a rare niche that demonstrates a willingness to bridge two seemingly disparate subjects. 

The student also mentions a study abroad opportunity specific for those within their major. They mention a specific study abroad destination, which further underscores their interest in this offering. The inclusion about brushing up on their French establishes a personal connection to their location choice, which also strengthens this portion of the response.

Next, the applicant discusses BU’s relevant extracurricular opportunities:

This inclusion is a good example of taking a BU-specific offering and expanding on what specific project the author intends to work on. They do a good job of connecting an engineering-related club to their humanities-related passions. 

The applicant then concludes with the following: 

These final sentences do a nice job of wrapping up the response in a way that allows the essay to flow smoothly until the end. The mentions of Autodesk Inventor and petitions provide readers with specific details that corroborate the points made earlier in the response. The applicant ends with a forward-facing sentence that solidifies their desire to attend BU. Similarly, you should aim to wrap up your response with a final statement that encapsulates your essay thus far and also points ahead to your future at the university.

What Could Be Improved

This essay could be strengthened in that the candidate does not necessarily establish a personal connection to BU’s Societal Engineer vision. To improve this, they could briefly elaborate on what drew them to this academic intersection. Perhaps volunteering at a homeless shelter opened their eyes to housing inequalities, which stem from issues with both finding cheap building materials and their city’s budget. Or, perhaps their interest in creating sustainable plastic substitutes drew them to explore both materials engineering and environmental policy. This personal connection would strengthen the overall authenticity of this essay and provide a flow for admissions officers to follow. 

The next portion of this response could also be improved. It centers on BU’s academic opportunities:

The applicant demonstrates that they have researched their major and mention a specific requirement. This is a good start; however, they should elaborate more on why they chose to mention this specific category. They can talk about how they hope to learn more about specific courses within this category. 

For instance, maybe they want to learn about security in America to inform their sense of national politics, or delve into the representation of the Holocaust in film, as they feel current policies on religious diversity should consider this topic. This further elaboration will round out this portion of the response rather than leaving it underdeveloped.

Essay Example #2

Prompt: What about the Kilachand Honors College resonates with you, and how would Kilachand’s curriculum fulfill your academic, creative, intellectual, and/or professional goals? (600 words)

I am an example of societal rejection. My lack of adherence to gender constructs breaks traditional expectations as my queerness takes over any sense of “normality” that society could see in me. As a queer, nonbinary person of color and an Indian immigrant, I’ve moved away from expectations that demand a definition of my characteristics and have begun to explore who I am on a profound level. It’s this concept of exploration that I aspire to integrate into my education so that I can learn more about others and understand the incomprehensible by any means, whether it be through interacting with different aspects of humanity, connecting with new communities, or increasing my knowledge on a topic. 

I’ve found this same ring of curiosity and educational passion that distinguishes Kilachand Honors College and have come to resonate with it, whether it be through the different community based circle meetings, the dissimilar seminars focused on developing critical and creative thinking, or the focus on experiential learning. However, Kilachand takes this interest for learning one step further, adding another dimension to the challenging liberal education through building on layers of global, social, corporate, and geopolitical challenges within the classes. This interdisciplinary aspect of the Kilachand curriculum provides me with the chance to understand issues from different perspectives, which I’d take advantage of to fulfill my professional goal of directing a human rights campaign. 

Specific classes like KHC HC 401: Epistemologies and the Process of Inquiry and KHC HC 301: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Global Challenges offer new intellectual opportunities I have been seeking while also supporting me in utilizing my education in a way that benefits my community. The emphasis placed on exploring the real life impact of students’ work in Kilachand’s integrated curriculum is empowering and would help me use education as a tool to build on my global perspective and make a meaningful difference.

It is my goal to learn more about the unfamiliar so that I can apply that knowledge to “unsolvable global issues” that are only labeled as such because of a cultural disconnect or societal difference. Kilachand supports this goal through offering co-curricular events and residencies where I can connect with other cultures through visiting different cultural institutions or having enlightening discussions with leading professionals. I am inspired by the passion behind the Kilachand community; events such as the POC and LGBTQIA+ Circle meetings are features of the Kilachand community that I hope to contribute to and learn from. By learning about others’ experiences and sharing my own, I aspire to be a part of the intellectual curiosity that is shared among Kilachand students.

The copious academic, cultural, and social opportunities at Kilchand all connect back to the same pillar of change that I have continuously been drawn to. Even though my interests are diverse and follow multiple tracks, the diversity of opportunities at Kilchand resonate with my varied passions and offer an accepting community connected through curiosity, which I hope to contribute to. 

The essay starts out with a bold, unexpected first sentence that hooks the audience into continuing to read the essay. This well-crafted writing seamlessly leads into an introduction about the writer, their values, and what they are looking for in a college education. The following paragraphs show how the Kilachand Honors College is an ideal fit for them.

The key to writing any “Why This College?” essay is to highlight specific resources that the college offers. This essay does that well by mentioning a wide range of BU resources by name, including classes, the integrated curriculum, the interdisciplinary educational philosophy, and extracurricular activities. By directly stating that they want to take “specific classes like KHC HC 401: Epistemologies and the Process of Inquiry,” the writer shows that they have done thorough research into the Honors College. More than anything else, evidence of this research demonstrates interest in the offerings of the Honors College and a strong “why” for applying.

The writer has not created a laundry list of resources with their essay either. They show that they have a personal interest in each resource by using “I” statements and explaining their ideas for making the most of the Honors College in the future. Instead of simply stating “I am looking forward to joining clubs related to social justice at BU,” the writer presents a much clearer and more confident vision for their academic future with the phrase “…events such as the POC and LGBTQIA+ Circle meetings are features of the Kilachand community that I hope to contribute to and learn from.”

Though the essay is highly specific with the resources it mentions in most parts, several sentences in the second paragraph could be strengthened:

However, Kilachand takes this interest for learning one step further, adding another dimension to the challenging liberal education through building on layers of global, social, corporate, and geopolitical challenges within the classes. This interdisciplinary aspect of the Kilachand curriculum provides me with the chance to understand issues from different perspectives…

Many other colleges offer an interdisciplinary curriculum, so the writer should write additional details here about Kilachand’s “interdisciplinary aspect.” They should ask themselves, is there a specific university value which encourages professors to tie many academic disciplines together in the classroom? Does BU require Kilachand students to take an honors core curriculum that covers many areas? Answering these questions would add the right level of specificity to the writer’s point about Kilachand’s educational philosophy. 

The essay would also be stronger if the writer explained exactly how Kilachand fosters curiosity. If curiosity were a core value of the Honors College, the writer could clarify by changing part of the essay’s last sentence to “an accepting community connected through the value of curiosity.”

Essay Example #3

Prompt: Describe a time when you felt out of your comfort zone or marginalized in a situation. How did you respond to that moment and how has it informed your actions moving forward? (600 words)

“The last 10% is 90% of the work.”

It was written on a small, ripped-off piece of yellow legal paper in fading blue ink. And now, it still sits in my desk drawer, four years after it was given to me by my band director, Mr. Laghari. It was one day in ninth grade, about two weeks before I was to perform my very first audition, that Mr. Laghari strolled over to where I was sitting.

“Alright Kat, let’s hear this district piece!”

What followed, looking back, was absolutely the most mediocre performance you’ve ever heard.

“Well done! I have a few comments for you though. Mainly, it seems like you have the notes and rhythms down, but you gotta add some musicality!”

I had no clue what he was talking about; it showed in my face.

“Expression! Dynamics! You know!”

But I didn’t.

“Oh come on! It’s the last part, right before the audition, the hardest part. You know, my high school band director once told me…”

He took out his yellow legal pad and began writing.

“The. Last. Ten. Percent. Is. Ninety. Percent. Of. The. Work.”

He ripped it off, and gave it to me. And I took it to heart. I looked up musicality, expression, dynamics, and worked to map out phrases in the music. I recorded myself to see what I could add to make it musical .

When the audition came around, I was ready. When they called euphoniums, I enthusiastically left my school’s group and walked with the rest of the auditionees to the holding room. But it was a long walk. Not only did I start to miss the safety of my school group, I started to get in my own head. What if I put in all my hard work for nothing? What would people think? My parents? Mr. Laghari? In the holding room, I squirmed in my seat, waiting for my name to get called. The clock on the wall ticked and ticked, my anxiety building all the while. Finally, my name was called, second-to-last, and as I followed the volunteer to the audition room, I suddenly remembered Mr. Laghari’s slip of paper. I just needed to give my ninety percent. I focused myself, and did just that.

So it came as a surprise to me when Mr. Laghari told me that I placed seventh, and they took the top six players, on the bus ride home. Not only was I surprised, I was crushed. “We’ll get ‘em next year!” he said. But all I heard was “You didn’t make it this year.” It was a bitter trip.

It took me about a week to realize what he said, and that I would crush it next year. I told myself it wasn’t a matter of auditioning to see if I could make it. I told myself auditioning was a formality. And as I looked at the blue ink on that slip of paper, with all of those crushing memories now attached, I told myself that I would give my ninety percent not just on the last ten percent of the work, but on all of it: every year. And with that mindset, I’ve not only placed first in All-Districts on trombone and euphonium, but have made it all the way to All-State. 

So, whenever I need inspiration for a project, motivation to finish my homework, determination not to give up, I just open up my desk drawer. And one day in the near future, when I move off to Boston University, that slip of paper is what I’ll be taking with me.

This essay is a moving example of how to tell a story with dialogue. Beginning the essay with dialogue is unexpected, which automatically makes for a gripping hook. At the same time, dialogue is an excellent way to organize the essay and convey main ideas in a succinct, yet creative way. The one-sentence introduction of the essay summarizes its entire message more effectively than a paragraph.

The writer then shows how they felt out of their comfort zone and responded by focusing on several specific moments of their journey to become a better musician. Writing about a few parts of a story with vivid detail will result in stronger narrative than a more general, big picture account. 

Lastly, the essay is cohesive and moving because of its motif, or recurring theme, of Mr. Laghari’s slip of paper. This one detail ties the whole essay together from start to finish. The motif makes the essay flow well and stay on topic, which are among the greatest challenges for any college essay writer. Of course, the motif makes for an awe-inspiring concluding sentence as well!

The writer could strengthen their essay by responding further to the last question of the prompt about how their moment of discomfort informed their actions moving forward. The writer certainly touches on this, but only talks about working harder as a musician and high school student. Adding a few more sentences to the second-to-last paragraph about their plans for the far future would answer the prompt more completely. For example, they could expand the final sentence of that paragraph to the following:

And with that mindset, I’ve not only placed first in All-Districts on trombone and euphonium, but have made it all the way to All-State. I’m now inspired to put 100% into my dream of becoming a professional musician in a philharmonic orchestra.

Where to Get Your BU Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your BU essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. In fact,  Alexander Oddo , an essay expert on CollegeVine, provided commentary on the essays in this post. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Boston University MBA Essay Analysis 2023-2024: Strategies for Crafting a Winning Application

Introduction

Welcome to an illuminating journey into the prestigious Boston University MBA program, a transformative educational avenue that propels ambitious individuals toward success in the dynamic realm of business. Nestled in the heart of Boston, renowned for its innovation, cultural richness, and economic vibrancy, the Boston University MBA stands as a beacon for aspiring business leaders seeking a comprehensive, forward-thinking education.

Embarking on this exploration means understanding the core ethos driving the Boston University MBA – a commitment to fostering well-rounded, adaptable professionals ready to navigate the complexities of today’s global business landscape. As a hallmark of academic excellence and innovation, this program has continually evolved, keeping pace with the ever-changing demands of the business world.

One of the defining strengths lies in the program’s flexibility, offering a range of MBA formats designed to accommodate diverse lifestyles and career trajectories. Whether you’re seeking a full-time immersion, a part-time commitment, an online learning experience, or an executive-level education, Boston University provides tailored programs catering to varied needs and ambitions.

Program Overview

Understanding the admission criteria and requirements for aspiring candidates plays a pivotal role in embarking upon this enriching academic journey.

Application Process

To apply for the MBA at Boston University, one needs to have;

• A standardised test score
• 1+ years of fulltime work experience
• Valid transcripts

Lets dive into the MBA essay analysis for 2023-2024 for the Boston University MBA;

Required essay.

Please discuss how you plan to achieve your short and long term career goals following graduation from Boston College. What challenges will you face and how will you leverage your academic and professional experiences to achieve these goals? (500 words)

Essay Prompt Analysis:

1. Discussing Short and Long-Term Career Goals:

• Begin by clearly defining your short-term (immediately after MBA) and long-term (5-10 years post-MBA) career objectives.
• Consider detailing specific industries, roles, or companies you aspire to work for, indicating your aspirations and direction.

2. Outlining Strategies for Achievement:

• Describe your plan for attaining these goals. How will the resources, network, and opportunities at Boston University assist you in this pursuit?
• Articulate your strategy, whether it involves specific coursework, experiential learning, internships, networking, or other resources available through the MBA program.

3. Identifying Challenges:

• Acknowledge potential obstacles or challenges you anticipate encountering while pursuing your career goals.
• Address how you plan to handle these challenges and demonstrate your resilience and adaptability.

4. Leveraging Academic and Professional Experiences:

• Showcase how your academic background and previous professional experiences have equipped you with skills and knowledge relevant to your career objectives.
• Explain how you intend to utilize these experiences to excel in your desired field post-MBA.

Sample Structure for the Essay:

Introduction (Approx. 50-75 words):

• Briefly introduce yourself and your overarching career ambitions.
• Set the stage by mentioning your interest in Boston University’s MBA program and its relevance to your aspirations.

Body (Approx. 350-400 words):

Short and Long-Term Career Goals (Approx. 100-150 words):

• Clearly delineate your short-term and long-term career objectives, emphasizing why they are significant to you.
• Connect these goals to your passions, skills, and previous experiences.

Strategies for Achievement (Approx. 100-150 words):

• Detail how attending Boston University’s MBA program aligns with your goals.
• Discuss specific resources, courses, or opportunities offered by the program that will aid you in reaching your objectives.

Challenges and Solutions (Approx. 100-150 words):

• Address potential challenges you foresee in achieving your career goals.
• Demonstrate your problem-solving skills by outlining potential solutions or approaches to overcome these challenges.

Leveraging Experiences (Approx. 100-150 words):

• Highlight key academic and professional experiences that have prepared you for your future career.
• Explain how these experiences will contribute to your success in achieving your short and long-term goals.

Conclusion (Approx. 25-50 words):

• Summarize your aspirations, how Boston University’s MBA program is crucial to your journey, and express your enthusiasm for the opportunities ahead.

Optional Essays (Select One)

Please introduce yourself to the Boston College Community. Feel free to be creative in expressing your message. (500 words recommended)

The essay prompt for Boston University’s MBA program is an opportunity for applicants to introduce themselves to the Boston University community in a creative and engaging manner within a recommended word limit of 500 words. Let’s break down this essay topic into key components:

• Introduction:  Applicants are asked to present themselves to the Boston University community. This is an invitation to share personal information, experiences, values, and perspectives that define who you are as an individual and a potential member of the BU community.
• Audience:  Consider the audience—Boston University’s community. This includes faculty, current students, alumni, and potential future peers. Tailor your message to resonate with this diverse audience, showcasing aspects of yourself that align with the ethos of BU.
• Creativity and Expression:  Applicants are encouraged to be creative in conveying their message. This implies a certain degree of freedom in how you structure and present your story. Consider using storytelling, anecdotes, unique perspectives, or any other creative approach to engage the reader.
• Relevance and Authenticity:  While creativity is encouraged, ensure that your narrative remains relevant to the prompt. Focus on sharing meaningful aspects of your background, aspirations, achievements, and values. Authenticity is crucial—be genuine and sincere in your portrayal.
• Conciseness and Clarity:  The recommended word limit of 500 words suggests the need for conciseness. Craft your essay thoughtfully, ensuring clarity in your expressions. Focus on impactful content while avoiding unnecessary details or digressions.
• Community Fit and Contribution:  Consider how your experiences, values, and aspirations align with the Boston University community. Highlight how you can contribute positively to the MBA program, campus culture, and the broader BU community.
• Proofreading and Editing:  After writing your essay, revise, edit, and proofread meticulously. Ensure proper grammar, spelling, and coherence. This final step is crucial in presenting a polished and professional piece of writing.

In addressing this prompt, applicants should aim to create a compelling narrative that provides insight into their unique qualities, aspirations, and what they can contribute to Boston University’s community. Emphasizing personal growth, diverse experiences, and a genuine passion for learning and collaboration can greatly enhance the impact of your essay.

Explain an aspect of your candidacy in more detail. (500 words recommended)

The essay prompt, “Explain an aspect of your candidacy in more detail,” is a broad invitation for applicants to delve deeper into a specific aspect of their profile or experiences that may not have been fully addressed in other parts of their MBA application.

Here’s a breakdown and analysis to approach this essay prompt effectively:

• Self-Assessment:  Begin by introspecting and identifying a particular aspect of your candidacy that you feel requires further elaboration. It could be a significant experience, an achievement, a challenge you’ve overcome, a skill you’ve developed, or a personal attribute that defines your candidacy.
• Relevance to Your MBA Candidacy:  Ensure that the aspect you choose to elaborate on is relevant to your pursuit of an MBA. It should tie in with your career goals, personal development, leadership abilities, or contributions to the MBA program.
• Be Specific and Detailed:  Rather than providing a superficial overview, aim to provide depth and detail. Share anecdotes, examples, and specific instances that highlight the significance and impact of the chosen aspect. Use concrete details to paint a vivid picture and engage the reader.
• Connect with BU’s MBA Program:  Demonstrate how this aspect aligns with the values, culture, or specific offerings of Boston University’s MBA program. Show how your unique perspective or experience can contribute to the program and its community.
• Reflect and Analyze:  Reflect on the lessons learned, skills gained, or personal growth resulting from this aspect of your candidacy. Discuss how it has shaped your outlook, influenced your decisions, or contributed to your development as a professional and as an individual.
• Stay Within Word Limit:  The suggested word limit is 500 words. Respect this limit while ensuring that you provide sufficient detail and depth to convey the significance of your chosen aspect.
• Structure and Clarity:  Organize your essay coherently with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Ensure clarity in your writing, using transitions to maintain a smooth flow between ideas.
• Edit and Refine:  After drafting your essay, revise it multiple times. Pay attention to grammar, clarity, and overall coherence. Seek feedback from mentors, peers, or advisors to refine your essay further.

Remember, this essay provides an opportunity to showcase aspects of your candidacy that might not be apparent from other parts of your application. Use it strategically to present a well-rounded and compelling picture of yourself as a prospective MBA candidate.

Lastly, Boston University’s MBA program looks for candidates who not only demonstrate academic excellence but also exhibit leadership potential, diverse experiences, and a commitment to making a positive impact. Tailor your essay to align with these expectations, showcasing your unique qualities and how they align with the values of BU’s MBA program

What unique perspective will you bring to the Boston College community? (500 words)

The essay prompt for Boston University’s MBA program, “What unique perspective will you bring to the Boston College community?” invites applicants to delve into their individual experiences, perspectives, and qualities that differentiate them and would enrich the community at the university.

• Reflect on Personal Background and Experiences:  Begin by reflecting on your background, life experiences, cultural heritage, or personal journey that has shaped your unique perspective. Consider how these experiences have influenced your values, beliefs, and outlook on life.
• Identify Unique Strengths and Attributes:  Highlight specific strengths, skills, or attributes that differentiate you from other applicants. These could be professional expertise, leadership qualities, cultural diversity, or a unique approach to problem-solving.
• Connect Your Perspective to Contribution:  Discuss how your distinct perspective aligns with the ethos and values of Boston University. Show how your unique viewpoint can contribute positively to the university community, whether through diverse viewpoints in classroom discussions, collaborative projects, or extracurricular activities.
• Highlight Potential Impact and Contribution:  Explain the potential impact of your perspective within the Boston College community. Describe how your background and insights can contribute to the academic environment, enhance discussions, foster diversity, or promote understanding among peers.
• Offer Concrete Examples:  Use specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate your unique perspective and its relevance to the university setting. Share instances where your perspective has positively influenced a team, project, or community.
• Tie Back to Long-Term Goals:  Connect your unique perspective to your future aspirations. How will your experience at Boston University, enriched by your unique viewpoint, help you achieve your long-term goals? Highlight the synergies between your perspective and your professional objectives.
• Demonstrate Passion and Authenticity:  Be genuine and passionate in your response. Admissions committees appreciate sincerity and authenticity. Show your enthusiasm for contributing to the Boston University community and how your perspective will be an asset.
• Structure and Editing:  Structure your essay logically with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that delve into specific aspects of your perspective, and a compelling conclusion that ties everything together. Edit and revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and conciseness.

Remember, this essay isn’t just about showcasing your uniqueness but also about demonstrating how that uniqueness will contribute positively to the Boston University community. Tailor your response to align with the values, culture, and objectives of the MBA program at Boston University while presenting your authentic self.

Networking Opportunities

The invaluable networking avenues and industry connections offered through the program aids in building professional relationships.

The alliances and partnerships with industries and businesses provides students with unparalleled networking prospects and real-world exposure.  The average salary for the class of 2023 stands at 141,000USD. 

In summary, the Boston University MBA program epitomizes an enriching educational experience that not only equips students with business acumen but also cultivates invaluable skills and networks necessary for success in today’s competitive landscape.

Q:  Is Boston University’s MBA program suitable for working professionals? 

A:  Absolutely! With flexible scheduling options and diverse formats, the program caters to individuals balancing work and education.

Q:  What sets Boston University’s MBA apart from other programs? 

A:  The program’s emphasis on experiential learning, diverse specializations, and robust networking opportunities distinguishes it significantly.

Q:  How can prospective students maximize networking opportunities within the program? 

A:  Engaging actively in campus events, industry seminars, and alumni meetups can greatly enhance networking prospects.

Q:  Are scholarships available for the MBA program? 

A:  Yes, Boston University offers various merit-based scholarships and financial aid options to qualified candidates.

Q:  What industries do Boston University MBA graduates commonly enter? 

A:  Graduates often pursue careers in finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, and other sectors due to the program’s versatility and reputation.

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We review each application with a level of thoroughness and thoughtfulness that reflects the time and effort you have invested in Boston College. In making admission decisions, we consider grades, standardized test scores, what you do outside of school, teachers’ and others’ appraisals, and how you express yourself through writing.

Early Decision Info

• Homeschooled Applicants
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• QuestBridge Applicants
• Transfer Applicants
• Veterans & ROTC Applicants

Message from the Dean

Before you begin the application process, hear from Dean of Admission & Financial Aid, Grant Gosselin, who shares some advice and suggestions about applying to Boston College.

Application Requirements

Explore each requirement to learn more about our application review.

Check your Application Status

Common Application

Associate Director Chris O'Brien

For our undergraduate admission process, Boston College uses the Common Application. We require that all candidates submit their application electronically. Please make sure to carefully select your preference for Early Decision or Regular Decision consideration on the Common Application. commonapp.org

Selecting an Academic Division

Candidates are required to apply to one of the University's four undergraduate academic divisions: the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences, Carroll School of Management, Lynch School of Education and Human Development, or Connell School of Nursing. Students are only considered for admission to the division to which they applied. Students do not have to declare a specific major when applying (with the exception of Engineering* & Nursing.) Learn more about  choosing an academic division .

* Because of the limited number of spaces in the entering cohort, HCE major applicants only will have the option to indicate a second major in the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences on their application. If applicants are not offered admission to the HCE major, they may be considered for their second-choice major.

Note on Use of Artificial Intelligence

Personal statements, supplemental essays, and free responses provide students with a valuable opportunity to have an authentic voice in the college admission process. While students may turn to a variety of resources such as parents/guardians, English teachers, and school counselors in order to generate ideas, the content must be their own. Generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT may also serve as a resource, but must only be used as a guide; content must never be directly copied from AI or other sources. The submission of original content not only adheres to the ethical expectations in applying to college, but benefits the applicant by having their authentic personal story valued by the Admission Committee.

Notice of Nondiscrimination

The Office of Undergraduate Admission deeply values the contributions made by a diverse community of scholars. Learn more about Boston College's  notice of nondiscrimination .

Boston College Writing Supplement

Associate Director Amy Chung

The Boston College Writing Supplement must be submitted along with your application to Boston College at www.commonapp.org . Please do not mail or email your essay response. 

Supplemental Questions

We would like to get a better sense of you. Please respond to one of the first four prompts below (400 word limit). Students applying to the Human Centered Engineering major should respond to Prompt #5 instead.

1. Each year at University Convocation, our incoming class engages in reflective dialogue with the author of a common text. What book by a living author would you recommend for your incoming class to read, and why would this be an important shared text? 

2. At Boston College, we draw upon the Jesuit tradition of finding worthwhile conversation partners. Some support our viewpoints while others challenge them. Who fulfills this role in  your life? Please cite a specific conversation you had where this conversation partner challenged your perspective or you challenged theirs.

3. In her November 2019 Ted Talk, “ The Danger of a Single Story ,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie warned viewers against assigning people a “single story” through assumptions about their nationality, appearance, or background.  Discuss a time when someone defined you by a single  story. What challenges did this present and how did you overcome them?

4. Boston College’s founding in 1863 was in response to society’s call. That call came from an  immigrant community in Boston seeking a Jesuit education to foster social mobility. Still today, the University empowers its students to use their education to address society’s greatest needs. Which of today’s local or global issues is of particular concern to you and how might you use your Boston College education to address it?

5. Human-Centered Engineering (HCE) Applicants only : One goal of a Jesuit education is to prepare students to serve the Common Good. Human-Centered Engineering at Boston College integrates technical knowledge, creativity, and a humanistic perspective to address societal challenges and opportunities. What societal problems are important to you and how will you use your HCE education to solve them?

Standardized Testing

• To reduce the cost associated with applying to college, Boston College provides applicants with multiple options to report your SAT and ACT score results. Students may send official score reports from a testing center, self-report their test scores on their applications, and/or upload self-reported scores through their Applicant Status Portals. All scores submitted to Boston College will be evaluated by the Admission Committee. Should applicants upload or send new scores after submitting their application, we will do our best to review them, but cannot guarantee that they will arrive in time for review.
• Boston College "super scores" exam results for students who have taken the SAT or ACT multiple times. During our review, we will assess the students' strongest individual scores across exam administration dates to create the highest combined or composite score earned by the student. This policy also applies to prospective students who take both the paper-based SAT and the new digital SAT, which will be administered in the US beginning in Spring 2024.
• Enrolled students who provided scores with their applications will be required to submit official test score reports upon matriculation. At that time, students’ results will be verified.
• Official standardized test results sent at the time of application or upon enrollment must be sent directly from the testing agency to Boston College (SAT Code: 3083 and ACT Code: 1788). If having score reports sent from the College Board or ACT to Boston College presents a financial hardship, applicants should have their high school counselorcontact the Office of Undergraduate Admission. Alternatives will be explored on a case-by-case basis.

High School Transcript

Associate Director Kristen Gallant

Curriculum Evaluation

Boston College looks for students who are in the most challenging courses available at their high schools. Our most competitive applicants tend to have a high school program with four years of the five main subjects: English, Math, Social Science, Natural Science, and Foreign Language. We do appreciate that high schools can offer a variety of programs and consider that in our application review.

Submitting Your Transcript(s)

All students are required to submit an official high/secondary school transcript. This transcript must be sent by your high school and can be submitted online at  commonapp.org  or can be mailed (see below for address). Please note that we will not accept any academic credentials from students.

*In order to matriculate at Boston College, a student must submit a final high school transcript or a G.E.D. prior to enrollment.

Mailing Address: Boston College Undergraduate Admission 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Devlin 208 Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

Supporting Materials

In addition to the Common Application, Boston College requires that you also submit the following materials:

The School Report and Counselor Recommendation Form  - Your counselor or school official should submit these forms. If your school uses its own school form, we will also accept that document. Traditionally the school form is submitted with a letter of recommendation from your college counselor and your official transcript. Teacher Evaluations  - You are required to submit two teacher evaluations as part of your application to Boston College. We recommend that these evaluations are written by teachers who have taught you in one of the five main academic subject areas (English, Social Studies, Science, Math, or Foreign Language). Mid-Year Grade Report (Regular Decision and Early Decision deferred candidates)  - We require that the Mid-Year Grade Report be submitted as soon as it is available by your counselor or designated school official.

Application Fee

The application fee of $80 or application fee waiver request must be submitted in order for your application to be reviewed. Your application fee should be submitted with your Common Application. Given the volume of applications Boston College receives, we strongly recommend that you submit the application fee online. If you are unable to submit the fee online, you should mail a check or money order.

*Fee Waiver Request

If submitting the $80 application fee presents a financial hardship for your family and you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may apply for an application fee waiver. You may apply for a fee waiver through the Common Application.

Optional Credentials for the Arts

Senior Associate Director Owen Grover

Students who intend to major in Studio Art can submit artistic samples/portfolios through SlideRoom .  If not majoring in Studio Art, please highlight any art involvement (such as photography, painting, drawing, ceramics, digital media, and video) within the Activities or Additional Information sections of the Common Application or the QuestBridge Application. 

Students with a background in theater and/or music who plan to be involved in music and theater productions at Boston College are invited to showcase their talents by submitting artistic samples via SlideRoom,  regardless of their intended major .  If you do not intend to formally pursue these artistic talents at Boston College, but you would like to tell us about past experiences you've had in the arts, we encourage you to do so within the Activities or Additional Information sections of the Common Application or the QuestBridge Application.

All materials must be received via SlideRoom by November 1 for Early Decision I or QuestBridge National College Match candidates and by January 3 for Early Decision II and Regular Decision candidates.  Submissions received after these dates will not be reviewed.

English Proficiency

Associate Director James Dewey-Rosenfeld

All international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test examination results. A student is considered an international applicant if he/she is not a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident. Learn more about applying as an international student.

Supplementary English Proficiency Options

Students attending a national school in China are encouraged to schedule an interview with  InitialView . While not required, a video interview allows candidates the opportunity to demonstrate English proficiency and communication skills to the Admission Committee.

Applicants should submit InitialView results by November 15 for Early Decision I and January 15 for Early Decision II and Regular Decision.

Special Notice Regarding Application Deadlines

In recent years, a small number of Boston College applicants have faced challenges in meeting our application deadlines through no fault of their own. Natural disasters, political unrest, local school strikes and other unexpected events can add a level of complexity to the college application process. To the extent possible, Boston College is committed to working with students or those writing recommendations to extend deadlines, if necessary. Impacted students should contact us directly to discuss their circumstances.

For answers to our most frequent COVID-19 related questions, click here .

Early Decision I

Deadline: november 1.

Early Decision I is a binding admission program for students who view Boston College as their top choice.

Notification: By December 15

Early Decision applicants will be notified of their admission decision no later than December 15.

Early Decision II

Deadline: january 2.

Early Decision II is a binding admission program for students who view Boston College as their top choice.

Notification: By February 15

Early Decision applicants will be notified of their admission decision no later than February 15.

Regular Decision

Regular Decision is a non-binding admission program and the majority of applicants apply through Regular Decision.

Notification: By April 1

Regular Decision applicants will be notified of their admission decision no later than April 1.

Spring Freshmen

Human-Centered Engineering and Nursing freshman applicants are not eligible for spring enrollment.

Spring entry freshmen applicants will be notified of their admission decision no later than December 15.  

Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program

Each year, Boston College awards eighteen academically merit-based scholarships to incoming freshmen through the Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program .  Both Early Decision and Regular Decision candidates are eligible for Presidential Scholarship consideration as long as they meet the November 1 priority scholarship deadline.  No additional application materials are required for this scholarship, but please note that only candidates for fall admission will be considered.

The Presidential Scholarship is a  four-year, full-tuition scholarship . If a student demonstrates need beyond tuition, as determined by Boston College's institutional analysis, this need would be met with additional scholarship funds.

Finalists for the Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program will be notified of their status in mid-January. These students will be invited to Boston College at our expense for interviews and evaluation in mid-March. They will be notified of final decisions shortly thereafter. 

Boston College is proud to partner with the Stamps Scholars Program in funding three of the eighteen Presidential Scholarships each year.

Early Decision I and II

If Boston College is your unequivocal first choice, then we would urge you to consider applying through Early Decision. We expect that your academic credentials, extracurricular engagement, and personal qualities will fit the profile of currently enrolled Boston College students.  

Both Early Decision options are  binding . If admitted through Early Decision to Boston College, you must immediately withdraw applications to other institutions and enroll at Boston College.

Early Decision vs. Regular Decision

How do I check my application status?

We look forward to getting in touch with you through the email you provided on your Common Application or QuestBridge Application. After we receive your submission, we’ll email you login information for our Applicant Status Portal. You can check the status of your application there at any time. 

Please note, we do not begin downloading applications until mid-September. If you submit an early application, we will notify you once your application has been downloaded. Please add "admission@bc.edu" to your list of approved email senders to ensure that you receive this email and other important application related communications.

How do I access my Applicant Status Portal?

Within 1-2 business days of receiving your Common Application or QuestBridge Application, we’ll email you login instructions to access the portal. Please save your credentialing email, which contains your unique portal access link, so you can monitor your status throughout the admission process. You will use the same credentials for both the application process and decision notification.

As a reminder, portal credentials will not be distributed until mid-September. So if you apply early, don’t worry! We’ll email you when we begin downloading applications. If you experience technical difficulties establishing your portal login credentials or you do not receive your emailed credentials after one week, please email us at admission@bc.edu .

What can I do in the portal?

As an applicant, you will use your Applicant Status Portal to monitor your application checklist and view your admission decision. You can also use the portal to:

• Check the status of your financial aid application
• Confirm the standardized test scores we’ve received (if you choose to include them for review)
• Update your email and mailing address
• Withdraw your application

Help! I can't find my login credentials. What should I do?

Within 1-2 business days of downloading your application, we’ll email your Applicant Status Portal login credentials. First, check your spam to make sure that your credential email isn’t there (Please add "admission@bc.edu" as an approved address to your email server filtering system.)

If, after one week, you’ve checked your spam and you haven’t received your credentials email, please contact us at admission@bc.edu .

*Reminder: Applicant Status Portal login credentials will not be distributed until mid-September.

Can I submit checklist requirements through my portal?

No. All required materials (transcripts, recommendations, test scores, etc.) must be submitted electronically or via mail and must be official documents. You may use your portal to upload an optional resume, but this is not required for admission. We do not accept self-reported test scores.

How do I reset my portal password?

If you forgot your password and you set up Challenge Questions , you can conveniently change your password by clicking "Forgot Password?" on the Boston College Applicant Status Portal login screen.

If you forgot your password and you did not set up Challenge Questions, please email admission@bc.edu or call Undergraduate Admission at 617-552-3100 to have your credentialing email resent to you.

Online MBA Admissions

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Already started your application?

Applying to Questrom

Join a community of learners from all over the world—right from wherever you are. The Boston University Questrom Online MBA is designed for ambitious, curious, and dynamic future business leaders who are eager to further their careers.

Remember:  you may submit one application per entry term, and you can check the status of an existing application at any time. Please be sure to select “Online MBA” from the program list when creating your application in the system.  The Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office keeps all records on file for one year. Once you’ve submitted an application, we’ll begin the review process.

Helpful Links

We know the application process can take a lot of time and effort. If you have any questions, feel free to email or call us at (617) 353-2670.

Application Components

Application Form

When you’re ready to apply, start with our  online application form . Please be sure to select “Online MBA” from the program list when creating your application in the system. The easiest way to do this is to enter “Online MBA” in the search bar. Please review our  admissions checklist  to stay on top of required materials, and keep an eye on our deadlines, too.

Feel free to contact us with any questions along the way. We want the admissions process to be as simple and transparent as possible. Reach out to the Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office at (617) 353-2670 or  [email protected] . 

Kira Talent Assessment

We know that you are more than what’s on paper. During the online application process, all Online MBA candidates are invited to answer 3 Kira Talent Video Questions, which allow us to get to know you on a more personal level. You can  access the Kira Talent platform here .  When you register, you must use the same email address that you used to create your admission application account.  Upon creating your account with Kira Talent, you can begin your video assessment. You’ll need to use an internet-connected computer with a webcam and microphone. You’ll have 30 seconds to prepare, and then 60 seconds to record your answers. You can practice an unlimited number of times with Kira Talent’s example questions, but once you start the formal video assessment, you are only allowed one opportunity to record. This allows the committee to see your candid responses. We want your video recording process to be as easy as possible. As such, we encourage you to dress in business casual attire – no need for a suit. The Admissions Committee will then evaluate your responses to learn more about your experiences and to see how you think on your feet. We recommend trying out a few of the sample Kira questions prior to recording your formal video essay. This is not a required application component, but we highly encourage you to take advantage of this great opportunity.

Written Essay

In order to get to know you on a more personal level, applicants to the Online MBA program are required to complete one written essay during the application process. Within the “Documents” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application, you will scroll down to “Essay” and click “Add Document” to upload your written essay.

Your written essay should be  no more than 750 words , and should explain to the admissions committee why you’d like to earn your degree from the Questrom School of Business specifically.  It should also address why you have selected the program you are applying to and how that program will help you achieve your post-graduate goals.

Optional Essay

Optional Essay: If you have additional information to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee, you may address it in an optional essay of no more than 250 words. Acceptable topics for the optional essay include, but are not limited to, obstacles in your life that you’ve had to overcome, gaps in post-college work experience, choice of recommenders, and concerns about academic/test performance. If you plan to retake any admissions tests (GMAT or GRE; TOEFL, IELTS or PTE), please provide the date of your scheduled test here. To upload an optional essay, please scroll to the “Essay” section and click “Add Document.”

Undergraduate Degrees & Transcript Information

We require transcripts from any institution where you have completed 12 or more credits, including study aboard. We will accept unofficial copies of transcripts for the evaluation of your application, though any copies should include your name, the University name, degree confer date, course names, and grades for each course taken. 

We require that applicants hold a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited US institution or its international equivalent. If you have earned a three-year degree that is the equivalent of a four-year degree in the US, it will be accepted in the admissions process. For example, if you earned a three-year degree in India, your degree will qualify you to be considered for admission. Regardless of program length, if you are uncertain whether your undergraduate degree meets our qualifications, please contact [email protected] before starting the application process. 

Students admitted to our graduate degree programs must provide proof of an earned bachelor’s degree or equivalent international credential. Boston University does not require official transcripts with the submission of an application. Should a student decide to enroll at Boston University Questrom School of Business, official transcripts from each of your previous universities must be submitted and verified prior to the point of matriculation. 

Optional GMAT or GRE

The Online MBA is a rigorous program that requires quantitative aptitude. The admissions committee will look for evidence of this in your application via previous coursework. If you feel that you do not have sufficient evidence in your previous coursework to demonstrate this aptitude, you may want to consider submitting a GMAT or GRE score to enhance your application. The GMAT or GRE is not required for admission to the Online MBA.

You should submit a current resume that outlines  all work experience, with months and years of employment.  Your resume should show all employment history from the completion of your undergraduate degree, including any jobs that may not be considered relevant to your present career. We will calculate all full-time, post-graduate work experience from your undergraduate degree confer date and remove any gaps of unemployment. It’s important that we have an accurate sense of your months/years of employment for reporting purposes.

Within the online application you will also be asked to fill out a work experience section. For Online MBA students, we recognize this could be quite a bit of work. Please feel free to only include your current or most recent employment. We will look to your resume for the rest of the details on your work history.

Letter of Recommendations

We require one letter of recommendation for the Online MBA. Within the application (program materials, recommender section) you will enter your recommender information. Once entered into the system, the person(s) listed will receive detailed instructions on how to submit their letter. They can either use the  Common Letter of Recommendation  or upload a standard letter they have written. We prefer you use someone who knows you in a professional capacity. 

Please note, your letter of recommendation must come via the online system or directly from the recommender themselves to  [email protected] . We cannot accept letters of recommendation directly from applicants. 

Re-Applicants

The Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office keeps all records on file for one year. We welcome your re-application.

Each re-applicant is required to submit a new application form and fee ($125); an essay discussing updates or changes since the time of the previous application, as well as reasons for re-applying; an updated resume and official university-level transcripts (if the re-applicant has taken new coursework since the time of their first application). A new letter of recommendation is not required. Please email [email protected] for more instructions.

Information for International Students

English Language Proficiency

Candidates who have earned or will have completed at least two years of a bachelor’s or master’s degree at an institution in which the language of instruction was solely based in English are eligible for an automatic TOEFL/IELTS/PTE waiver. Candidates must present evidence of language of instruction with the application for admission. Appropriate documentation includes a transcript coversheet, an official statement from the university, or a link to the institution’s website that specifies that the mode of instruction is English. Additionally, candidates who have or will have worked for at least two years in a full-time, post-bachelor’s degree position in the US are eligible for an automatic waiver. If you do not meet this criteria but would like to be considered for a waiver, you can submit a written request highlighting your experience with and proficiency in the English language to  [email protected]   prior to the submission of your application . The admissions committee will consider these requests on a case by case basis. If you are submitting test results with your application, please be advised that tests are valid for two years.

We are currently accepting Duolingo scores in addition to TOEFL and IELTS.   To access the Duolingo test, go to  https://englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants .  Select Boston University Graduate & Professional Programs as a score recipient, and email  [email protected]  with your name and the date you have taken the Duolingo test.

• TOEFL: BU’s TOEFL code is 3087. Minimum Scores of 600 on the PBT or 90 on the iBT are recommended.
• IELTS: A student must score a minimum of 6.5 across each band.
• PTE: As more candidates submit the PTE, we are developing updated standards for our requirements. As new information becomes available, it will be posted here.
• Duolingo: A minimum score of 120 is recommended.

Application Fee Waiver Eligibility

The Graduate Admissions and Financial Aid Office will waive the application fee for current BU employees, as well as for those who attended select admissions events and off-site fairs. In addition, we will waive the application fee for those who are members or alumni of the following programs:

Instructions:

Instructions and the application fee waiver form can be found  here.

Once we process your fee waiver request, you’ll receive a follow-up email with additional instructions on how to submit your application.  DO NOT click “submit and pay for programs” prior to receiving these instructions. We are unable to offer application fee refunds.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, your application fee waiver may take a few business days to process. As such, we encourage you to submit your application fee waiver request as soon as you have started your application.  If you wait until the application deadline to submit your waiver request, you will still be considered “on time” for that deadline as long as you submit your application within 48 hours of receiving your waiver code. You must submit your waiver request before you submit your application in order for the fee waiver to be applied.

Admissions Deadlines

Please note: if the class has been filled for a specific entry date, applicants will receive priority consideration for the next available entry term.

Admissions Checklist

Below, you’ll find our Online MBA admissions checklist—keep it handy and bookmark it in your browser.

We’re here to help.

We know the application process can take a lot of time and effort. If you have any questions, please email or call us at (617) 353-2670.

Online Application Form

Application fee ($125).

$125 application fee payable by credit/debit cards only. Submit at the time of application submission.

Kira Talent Video Assessment

In the “Kira Assessment” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application, respond to three questions to help us get to know you better. You can either access the Kira Talent platform within the online application (preferred) or complete the assessment after submission. Please note that the Kira Talent Assessment requires either a laptop or desktop computer. Mobile devices and tablets are not currently supported on the Kira Talent platform. Completing the Kira Talent Assessment is optional but highly encouraged.

In the “Documents” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application, upload your written essay to help us get to know you better. Your written essay should be no more than 750 words and should explain to the admissions committee why you’d like to earn your degree from the Questrom School of Business specifically. It should also address why you have selected the program you are applying to and how that program will help you achieve your post-graduate goals.

Current resume, as required in the “Experiences” section of the online application. Upload in the “Supporting Information” section of the online application. If you have any additional information to bring to the attention of the admissions committee, you may address it in an additional optional essay.  Please note – as an Online MBA applicant, you will need to include your current or most recent work experience in the “experiences” section. You do not need to input any additional employment.

One Letter of Recommendation

 In the “Recommendation” section of the “Program Materials” portion of the application, you will enter your recommender information. Once entered into the system, they will receive detailed instructions on how to submit their letter. They can either use the  Common of Letter Recommendation  or upload a standard letter they have written.

University-Level Transcripts

Submit transcripts for any coursework completed, including study abroad and post-graduate work. Transcripts should be uploaded in the “Supporting Information” portion of the application under “Documents.” Should you choose to enroll, we will need official transcripts prior to matriculating. If you have issues uploading your document(s), transcripts can be emailed to  [email protected] .

Mail paper copy to: Boston University Questrom School of Business 595 Commonwealth Avenue Boston, MA 02215

Proof of English Proficiency

If you are a non-native English speaker, you may be required to submit proof of English proficiency via a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test. Please see  this section  of our website for waiver information. Permanent residents should submit a copy (front and back) of their permanent resident card.

Tuition & Financial Aid

You’re making a smart investment in BU and in your future. The following tuition, fees, and other expenses have been established for students starting in Fall 2024 and are subject to change.

Graduate Financial Aid

We’re happy to guide you through the financial aid process and provide any assistance along the way. To help you plan for your graduate education, use the Graduate Financial Aid page or take a look at the Online MBA-specific information below.

Application Tips

Have questions about the application process for Questrom’s Online MBA program? We have answers. Whether you’re curious about letters of recommendation or what we look for on your resume, you’re in the right place. These videos have all the answers you need to make sure you send in a competitive application.

Previously Recorded Webinars

As you make plans for your future, we want to give you every opportunity to discover all there is to know about Boston University Questrom School of Business and the Online MBA. Don’t have time to join us live for one of our  events ? Check out our previously recorded webinars below!

Recent Recordings

Watch July’s Why OMBA Webinar  – recorded, July 17, 2024

Watch April’s Application Tips Webinar   – recorded April 23, 2024

Watch April’s Inventing OMBA: The Making of Questrom’s Market-Disrupting Online MBA Webinar   – recorded April 17, 2024

Watch March’s Ask Admissions Anything Session  – recorded March 26, 2024

Watch February’s Balancing School, Work, and Life Student Panel  – recorded February 7, 2024

Watch January’s OMBA Virtual Information Session  –  recorded January 9, 2024

Archived Recordings

Watch May’s Why OMBA Webinar  – recorded May 13, 2024

Watch March’s Application Tips Webinar   – recorded March 6, 2024

Watch February’s Why OMBA Webinar  – recorded February 22, 2024

Watch January’s Ask Admissions Anything Session  – recorded January 23, 2024

Watch January’s Application Tips Webinar   – January 18, 2024

Watch November’s OMBA Virtual Information Session  –  recorded November 13, 2023

Watch October’s Ask Admissions Anything Session  – recorded October 30, 2023

Watch October’s Application Tips Webinar   – October 23, 2023

Watch October’s How to Succeed in Business (School): Utilizing OMBA’s Student Success Team  – recorded October 12, 2023

Watch October’s OMBA Virtual Information Session  –  recorded October 3, 2023

Watch September’s Behind the Screen Community and Student Involvement in OMBA  – recorded September 26, 2023

Watch September’s Application Tips Webinar   – September 6, 2023

Watch August’s OMBA Virtual Information Session  –  recorded August 30, 2023

Watch August’s Why OMBA Webinar  – recorded August 8, 2023

Watch May’s Ask Admissions Anything Session  – recorded May 24, 2023

Watch April’s Application Tips Webinar   – April 19, 2023

Watch April’s Why OMBA Webinar  – recorded April 11, 2023

Watch March’s Balancing Life Webinar  – recorded March 28, 2023

Upcoming Online MBA Admissions Events

Full-time mba virtual information session.

Thursday, September 5

Part-Time MBA Virtual Information Session

Online mba: ask admissions anything with omba’s director of admissions.

Monday, September 9

Apply to the Online MBA

Ready to apply? Once you’ve submitted your materials, we’ll start the review process. We’re happy to answer your questions along the way.

Application Deadlines

January (Spring) 2025 Entry

• September 11, 2024
• October 30, 2024

August (Fall) 2025 Entry

• January 30, 2025
• March 12, 2025
• May 1, 2025