MBA (higher education)

Recommendation letters have long been a core component of the MBA application. But with the rise of AI, there’s been a noticeable shift—more letters are starting to sound generic, templated, and increasingly interchangeable. Even so, whether a school requires one letter or two, AdComs still agree that recommendation letters play a meaningful role in the application. So the question becomes: what is that role today—and how do you make sure your recommendation letter actually s

For applicants who didn’t study in English during university, the English proficiency test can quietly become one of the biggest bottlenecks in the MBA application. Although not all schools require it, a significant amount of schools still do so it's important to start thinking about them early on. While MBA programs in the U.S. and Europe are conducted entirely in English, the test is not just about academic reading ability. It also ensures students can actively participate

When AI first became widely used in MBA applications, I wrote a piece cautioning applicants about relying on it too heavily for essay writing. At the time, many schools were still reacting quickly—some even introducing early restrictions around AI use. Two years later, the landscape has evolved significantly. Current AI Usage Policies and Application Changes Based on discussions with AdCom during this year’s AIGAC Conference, the current reality is this: schools no longer ass

Alright, let’s address the question that everyone’s been asking recently: In today’s world—is an MBA even worth it? With AI reshaping how work gets done and a weaker job market, it’s tempting to “job hug” rather than step into uncertainty. And MBA programs are very aware of these concerns. From changes in curriculum to expanded career support and even shifts in how they evaluate applicants, schools are actively adapting. After attending this year’s AIGAC Conference—where admi

2026 MBA Admissions Results The 2026 intake marked one of my strongest years to date, with exceptional outcomes across top MBA programs globally. Maintained a 100% acceptance rate to INSEAD for the 4th consecutive year 100% of M7 applicants were admitted to at least one M7 program 40% of clients received scholarship offers, totaling over $750,000 USD One client secured a full-ride scholarship 100% of clients were admitted to at least one MBA program, with 70% receiving multip

Every consultation call I take, while prospective clients worry about test scores, GPAs, or years of experience, I focus on hearing their story: why they want an MBA, what programs interest them, who they hope to be with an MBA, and how their experiences tie to this vision. Because while numbers are important, personal brand is what makes an applicant stand out. What Personal Branding Really Means in the Application process Your personal brand isn’t a logo or LinkedIn headlin

Why Networking Matters As an AIGAC member, I’ve had direct conversations with admissions committees across top MBA programs—and one theme comes up consistently: Applicants who clearly understand the program—and can articulate their fit—stand out. But here’s where most applicants get it wrong. They assume this comes from reading the website, attending a few info sessions, and repeating what they’ve seen. But it goes beyond that. The applicants who actually stand out are the on

Please note this post was originally written September 2025 - updates made in June 2026 are noted with a * In the last year, everyone in the MBA Admissions world, including yours truly, is talking about AI. We all know that applicants are increasingly using AI in their application process, whether it's writing entire drafts of the essay or just a polish on the resume. And while most AdComm are "okay" with it, knowing that AI is here to stay, AdComm still hopes to know the app

Applying to a top MBA program? With admit rates often under 15%, even tiny mistakes can cost you a spot. That’s why self-editing isn’t enough. No matter how strong a writer you are, once you’ve lived inside your own essays for weeks, you’ll miss things—logic gaps, awkward phrasing, even tone mismatches. After weeks of working on your essays, you’re simply too close to the material. You know what you meant to say, but that doesn’t guarantee the AdComm will read it the same wa

It's mid August and if you're planning on applying for R1 you're probably freaking out a bit, but don't worry, take a deep breath, we got this. You can still submit high-quality applications if you focus on what truly matters and prioritizing the programs that fit you. Here's a streamlined checklist to help you prioritize wisely and make every week count. Decide on your top 2-3 programs - At this stage, applying to 5+ schools for R1 isn’t realistic. Focus on 2–3 programs—ide

Happy World Health Innovation Day! Healthcare management is no longer a niche—it’s a rapidly growing field of interest among MBA...

The MBA application essays—and the Statement of Purpose for Master’s applicants—are one of the most critical parts of the application process. Beyond your test scores and résumé, the essays are the part you still have control over right now, and they’re your key opportunity to shape the story the admissions committee will hear about you. A lot of applicants assume that you need a “tragic” personal story or a long list of extracurriculars to stand out, but that’s a misconcepti

Happy AI Appreciation Day! Though with how often we talk about it these days… maybe it’s more like AI Appreciation Year? 😅 Despite early resistance, AI has become integrated into how we work, think—and yes, even apply to business school. MBA programs are rapidly adapting their admissions processes and offerings to stay ahead. So today’s guide explores the evolving role of AI in MBA applications. 🤖 The AI Dilemma in Applications Here’s the awkward truth about AI: most progra

MBA Application Guide for Summer 2025, including an analysis of 2025 trends

As a second-generation American, daughter of Chinese immigrants, it has always been drilled into me that I attend a top university in the States. One of the greatest institutions of the USA is our higher education system, with world-renowned programs like Ivy League Harvard and Columbia, West Coast-respected Stanford, UC Berkeley, and many more across the country. I’m proud and honored to have experienced this firsthand, having attended UC Berkeley for my undergraduate and UC

Today, June 5th, is World Environment Day —a perfect reminder that business can’t ignore the planet. The good news? ESG (Environmental,...

The 2025 intake cycle was an incredible one, where all of my clients secured at least one admission to an MBA/Masters Program, with many receiving multiple admissions! And although the competition for international students getting admitted to USA/European MBA programs remain fierce, my "100% admit" INSEAD streak continues, a client secured an admit to USA #1 MBA Program Wharton (and M7 program Columbia), and total scholarship offers topping $500K USD—plus a full-ride fellow

So with most Round 3 decisions already out, some of you may be facing the heartbreaking reality that, this year, the MBA isn’t happening....

Note: This article was originally written in 2025 and updated as of June 2026. For those considering applying to a Master’s or MBA program, this is typically the time of year when standardized testing becomes real. Whether you’re just starting or already deep into studying, I want to share how to approach the GMAT/GRE more strategically—based on my experience as a former standardized test tutor and someone who self-studied to the 95th percentile on the GMAT. If you want a ful

For those who applied this year, you most likely have heard back from at least one program and whether it's positive or not, it's time to...